Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year.  It is a welcome relief from the scorching Texas summers.  I love to walk outside early in the morning with a cup of coffee and breathe in the crisp air with my feet ground into the cold grass.

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving.  Growing up with a huge extended family made for a loud, laughter-filled day.  Nowadays, our Thanksgiving is a bit smaller and quieter.  I am still grateful.

As we race towards the Christmas season, I would like to take this last week of November and be intentional, to listen, and to observe nature as she folds into herself for a long nap.

There is so much we can learn about letting go, resting, and rejuvenating for the coming spring.

My Mom taught me about practicing a hyyge lifestyle.  To me, it means having a cozy home, warm blankets, a fire, hot apple cider, homemade bread, and hearty soup.  Maybe some soothing music and a good book. Candles and warm socks.  Mom taught me to bring nature indoors.  A pretty bare branch is beautiful in a handmade vase. Maybe some red holly berries or blue junipers in a jelly jar.

All the fun, festivities, and Christmas activities can wait until next week. This week will be the calm before the busy season. At week’s end, I will gather with my friends around a bonfire, sip hot toddies, and give thanks for our friendship and connections. I will hold my family a little tighter and let them know how much I love them.

This is a time when we can reflect on the things we appreciate in our lives. I do have so much to be thankful for and I do not take anything or anyone for granted. We only get so many autumns, so let’s welcome these last few days in November as a reminder to be authentic, a bit less rushed, and full of purpose.

Until next time, be kind to each other.

xoxo

Cindy

Philippians 4:6-7