I feel like every month I blink and it’s over. That was especially the case for this month. November is my absolute favorite month of the year but it is also my busiest as a teacher. I just love the crisp autumn change that comes with the November weather. However, this November we had a few days of almost 100-degree weather. Really could have done without those days, but that’s life in California.
Life Updates
As I mentioned above, November is often time my busiest month as a teacher, between recruiting events, a school play, report cards, yearbook deadlines, and other festivities time tends to get away from me. The biggest project which occupied a majority of my time, as evident from the lack of posts this month, was my school’s production of Almost, Maine, which I directed. We were fortunate enough to preform our play in a historic vaudeville theatre in nearby Garden Grove, to nearly ‘sold out’ audiences for each performance. The show was very simplistic in set design, instead focusing heavily on each student’s acting as their character navigated the rocky paths of love. This play was one of the highlights (so far) of my career as an educator. I am so proud of the effort, talent, and dedication my students put forward to bring this production to life. A few days after our show closed I came down with the flu—boy was that awful. From such a high to such a low, bummer, but at least I felt better in time for my week off for Thanksgiving Break, another perk of being a teacher.
I took full advantage of my week off to tackle a few things I have put off, like cleaning and organizing our condo, and decorating for Christmas. We are hosting Christmas this year with my parents and grandma. I’m so excited and might have gone a bit overboard with the decorating, but I haven’t decorated my own place in nearly eight years. I can’t wait to share pictures of my living room with all of you next month. Over the break I also took a hike through Carbon Canyon with my mom and my Scottie, Beowulf. My Mom is taking photography classes and has been teaching me what she has learned. Beowulf was a very good model for our adventure through the three-acre redwood forest. For Thanksgiving, Jeff and I played our traditional round of golf with some friends, then we spent the afternoon with Jeff’s family and the evening with my family. I am impressed that I could manage two turkey meals! On Friday my Mom and I had our traditional ‘Black Friday’ shopping day. We just love being out in the hustle and bustle, soaking up all the holiday cheer. I look forward to this day with her every year—in case you haven’t figured it out, I’m a girl who likes her traditions.
This month we celebrated the life of my grandmother, Gamie, who passed away earlier. Gamie lived a wonderful and full life as an adventurer, creative and influential artist, caring mother, and loving grandmother. I will forever be grateful for all my time spent with her, including my many art history lessons, trips to museums, and our travels down the Danube River.
Love It
I purchased this dress to wear to our holiday festivities that we have coming up. I can’t wait for it to arrive so I can try it on and determine how it really looks on me. I was hesitant to order it since it was an online-only purchase, so I couldn’t tell the quality or the size when I ordered it. I just love the playful pattern, suitable for even non-Christmas events, and ruffle details of the dress which give it a very feminine and classic look. I plan on pairing it with gold heels and a faux fur blue jacket. I’ll be sure to post pictures on Instagram of the outfit.
Link It
Just like all of you, I have my list of favorite blogs to read through daily. Here are a few links to blog posts and articles I think are interesting and noteworthy to share. Hope you all enjoy!
- This post is such a good reminder of how to prioritize, especially during this hectic season.
- One of my favorite things about the month of November is pumpkin . . . everything, like this recipe for pumpkin pancakes. Yum! #PumpkinSeason
- Loved this article about giving back on giving Tuesday and it helps you get a cleaned out closet.
- I’m thinking this is a must DIY project in the near future! Never too early to start planning.
- When I was ten years old my parents took me to Europe for a six-week excursion throughout the country. This article reminded me of that time and the amazing public transportation Europe has to offer. I’m ready to plan my next vacation.
- Next year I think a Friendsgiving Bruch is a must.
- We have a lot to be thankful for especially during this time of the year. Here is a little reminder of how we can practice gratitude daily.
- Boy was this a good reminder for me to stay positive when things don’t go as planned.
- I don’t think any of you will be surprised when I say I love traditions, and this post has some great ideas to start some traditions of your own.
- This post is from a few months ago but I feel it is to good not to share. As you all know I love my “little farm” (the pups) to pieces but the reality is they will not be with us forever. I think this is such a beautifully written memoriam to a beloved family dog. Plus, this article about Willow. Read them with a box of tissues handy.
On The Blog
- Things were a little light on the blog this month, but I did manage a Friday Favorites posthighlighting all of my favorite Hearth and Hand with Magnolia products at Target. I’m beginning to think I have a thing for black and white, and plaid, and I’m okay with that.
I’m looking forward to December and have several wonderful posts planned for the month. What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
