New months usher in new opportunities. As my life evolves, I’ve gained some solo time on the weekends. At first, this stressed me out. Missing Saturday evenings with my partner seemed daunting. But I’m determined to reframe these moments and find the joy in them.
Enter: monthly wishlists. Some people call them bucket lists, but I want to keep things low-pressure. Plans change, and I don’t want to feel bad if I don’t tick everything off. Think of this more like a menu to choose from when I have free time. Fun ideas ready to go without the stress of decision-making. So, let’s dive in!
November Home Activities
Fall is my favorite time of year, and I feel like I lost most of October to projects and responsibilities. With some extra time off this month, I’m hoping to reclaim that cozy autumn feeling.
- Declutter and Donate Clothes
With the chilly months ahead, I want my space to feel like a cozy sanctuary, somewhere that makes staying in feel intentional, not restrictive. Plus, the holidays are around the corner and money’s tight for a lot of folks. Something I’ve forgotten about in the back of my closet could be a perfect gift for someone or help keep them warm this winter.
- Make Progress on Paint By Number
Last month, I got into paint-by-numbers and had a blast. I chose “Dance at Bougival” by Renoir. Did I pick it because I’m a Gilmore Girls fan? Absolutely! It’s been the perfect activity for binge-watching (more Gilmore Girls, obviously) or listening to audiobooks. In November, I want to keep chipping away at it. Who knows, I might even finish it. What’s your go-to comfort rewatch show?
- Decorate for the Season
Fall is my favorite time of year, but I haven’t done much decorating yet. Since I moved a couple of years ago, I haven’t picked up any new decor, and I really miss that ritual. This month, I’m planning to hit up some thrift stores and maybe even craft a few things myself—both fall and Christmas pieces to carry me through the season.
These home projects might seem simple, but the overall theme is about creating a space that feels warm and welcoming as we head into the darker months.
November Books
Lately, I’ve been reading way less because life keeps getting crazier. With winter coming and things (hopefully) slowing down, I want to make reading a priority again. I really love it and can’t wait to dive back in.
- Alchemised by SenLinYu
I’ve been hearing so much about this monster of a book. It’s full of heavy content and reads like gothic horror, which feels perfect for this season when everything’s a little darker and moodier. I haven’t dove into a new fantasy in ages, so I’m excited to get lost in this one. This also happens to be my book club pick for November! Want to join the read along? Join in here!
- We Can Do Hard Things by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, & Amanda Doyle
I stumbled across this while browsing Barnes and Noble one night, and it caught my eye. It reminds me of a Chicken Soup for the Soul kind of collection. Over 100 experts answering questions about heartbreak, joy, friendship, aging, grief, and more. It seems like something that might spark some inspiration or shift my perspective when I need it most.
- Quicksilver by Callie Hart
Another dark romantasy? Count me in. I’ll be honest. I don’t know much about this one, and I like it that way. I love going into fantasy as blind as possible, soaking up the world without expectations. The only thing I know is that a lot of my friends have been reading and loving it, so I figure I might as well give it a shot.
November Cooking
One of my bigger life goals right now is getting back to cooking at home and doing meal prep. It’s so easy to let this slide, but there’s something deeply satisfying about a home-cooked meal. Here are some recipes calling my name this month.
- Pumpkin Bundt Cake
I used to make this every fall. A moist, spiced pumpkin bundt cake drizzled with melted white chocolate. I’ve been thinking about it constantly lately, and I think this would be a perfect Saturday activity when I’m stuck inside. It makes an easy sweet treat for evenings or even breakfast. I can’t wait to get a little taste of the fall season again.
- Pot Roast
Does anything say fall quite like a pot roast that’s been getting juicy and tender in the crockpot all day? This is one of my favorite easy but filling meals. Really, this just reminds me that I need to find some new great crockpot recipes. Have a favorite one? Drop it in the comments. I’d love to try it out.
- Chili
Alright, don’t hate me when I say this… I’ve never been a huge fan of chili. But I think this is the year that changes. I want to get out of my comfort zone and try a new recipe and a new (to me) food. I think with the right ingredients, this could be another easy set-it-and-forget-it meal that actually excites me.
I’m not always the best about prioritizing self care, which inspired me to make it part of my wishlist. Maybe if I reposition it in my brain as something fun rather than obligatory, I’ll actually follow through.
November Self Care
- Try New Bath Products
If you know me, you know how much I love the bath. It was one of the main reasons I wanted to move out of my last apartment. I had NO access to a bath. This will be my first winter in a while with one, so it’s time to capitalize! I want to find some fresh bath products I love. I’m thinking Lush bubble bars or maybe some small business products. Either way, I want to try something new and make the most of this luxury.
- Try a New Yoga/Movement Routine
Movement is something I’d really like to prioritize going forward. After completing physical therapy for my hEDS pain, I learned how much safe movement can help my body feel better. This month, I think it would be great to explore a new gentle yoga routine or movement practice. I happen to have a free month’s access to the gym where my physical therapy was, so I’d love to make this a regular part of my schedule.
- Digital Detox
It may seem a little off to suggest this on my digital blog, but I think it’s important we all unplug regularly. This year online has been tough. For at least a day, but ideally a weekend, I’d like to plan a digital detox where I go as screen-free as possible. I’m on a journey to rewire my brain away from instant gratification and short bursts of dopamine. Slowing down and minimizing screens to reconnect with myself sounds pretty dreamy right now.
Plus a Bonus!
- Leonid Meteor Shower
It’s the month of the annual Leonid meteor shower! Despite it being an annual event, I’ve never gotten a chance to really witness it. It’ll peak around November 17th this year. I think it would be so sweet to drive somewhere without light pollution and cozy up to watch the stars fall.
What’s On Your List?
It was so much fun thinking up ideas for November. I plan on printing this off and hanging it somewhere always in view, like the refrigerator or my office desk. I’d love to hear what your November wishlist looks like! Drop your ideas in the comments. Maybe we’ll inspire each other.
Keep an eye out at the end of the month for a wrap-up and review. See you soon, cuties!