One Story at a Time #11: A Midlife Dream Week (No Rules)

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Each week we take a pause to write down one story that matters — the kind that might slip away if we don’t capture it.
👉 Need a place to begin your stories? Check out the Pen Your Past Starter Kit. It’s the easiest way to get started today!

This Week’s Pen Your Past Prompt

If you could design your perfect day (or even a whole week) what would it look like right now?

Don’t worry about limits or logistics. Maybe your dream week takes you halfway around the world, or maybe it happens right in your own living room. Think of the moments, routines, people, and places that would make life feel “just right” at this stage.

Why This Matters

Life can feel so full of “have to” and “should” that we rarely pause to ask, what would I actually choose, if I had a blank slate?

Your perfect day (or week) doesn’t need to be a luxury vacation, though it can be if you want! Sometimes it’s as simple as a slow morning, good food, the right people around you, and the space to breathe. Writing it down lets you notice what truly matters to you right now and maybe even shows you small pieces of that dream you can bring into everyday life.

If You’re Not Sure Where to Begin…

Try some of these story sparks to get you started:

  • What’s the very first thing you’d do when you woke up?
  • Where would you be? In your own home, the beach, a cabin, a city you love?
  • Who’s with you? Or would you enjoy being alone?
  • What would you eat, listen to, wear, or enjoy?
  • If money, time, and responsibility weren’t in the way, how would you spend those hours?
  • Does your perfect day stretch into a whole week? What makes it different from your normal routine?
✨ You don’t have to write a book to tell your story.
Just start with one small memory — and let it count.

My Life, One Story at a Time

For me, a perfect week would start at home with just me and my four pets (the same ones I wrote about back in Week #6). I’d love a full seven days off from work, no deadlines hanging over my head.

If money were no object, I’d finally hire a few helpers to tackle the little DIY projects I’ve been dreaming about, like pulling up carpet, laying new flooring, and tidying up my yard. Once that was done, I’d treat myself to lunch with my son. I miss the days it was just the two of us, and a long, relaxed catch-up would feel like a gift.

From there, I’d spend the rest of the time with my grandkids. Making memories with them is one of my top priorities now, even if they’re too young to remember every detail. What matters is the joy in those moments.

And when I came back home? I’d simply enjoy the peace. A long shower, a fluffy robe, maybe a book or a crossword puzzle, or even writing a story or two. Simple, quiet, safe: that’s my version of perfect, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

✍🏼 Share Your Prompted Story

👉🏼 I’d love to hear your version! Even just a few lines can spark an idea for someone else. You’re welcome to share your story here. From time to time, I feature reader stories in my newsletter.

📖 Keep the Stories Going

Want more guided prompts and printable pages? The Story Pebbles: Everyday Fun & Laughter Pack is waiting for you for only $7.
👉🏼Get Your Pack Here

Want more prompts, stories, and tools? Explore the Reflect Path Hub for everything in one place.
👉🏼 Visit the Reflect Hub

Save or Share This Prompt

A woman stands on a peaceful beach at sunset as text invites midlife women to Seven Days, Just For Me: gentle prompts for your story.
A joyful midlife woman stands arms raised over a city, celebrating A Midlife Dream Week—where women find support and creative freedom.

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Until Next Time

The best time to enjoy your life isn’t when everything is perfect. It’s when you decide to notice what’s already good.

See you next week! I’ll be coming up with a fresh new prompt for week #12. I can’t believe it’s been 3 months of writing! I hope you’ve followed along and have some great stories for the people you love!

With Love,
Kari 💚

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