November is the pause before the rush.
It’s the month that invites us to slow down, look around, and decide what kind of pace we actually want to carry into the holidays.
If we’re not careful, November can slip into a pattern of busy, rushed, and full of good intentions that never made it past the to-do list. But if we pause now, we can shift the tone of the entire season ahead.
Because here’s the truth: you don’t need to do more to prepare for the holidays.
You need to root deeper and set the pace.
Rooting into November
This month isn’t about hustle—it’s about preparation in the most grounded sense. Preparing your heart, your home, and your habits so that when the calendar fills and the noise picks up, you’re steady enough to handle it.
It’s the time to:
- Simplify your spaces so you’re not tripping over clutter when the decorations come out.
- Look ahead at your calendar and decide what’s worth your energy—and what’s not.
- Start small, steady habits that make everyday life calmer (like running the dishwasher at night or laying out tomorrow’s clothes).
The goal isn’t to perfect your days. It’s to set a steady tone that carries into the holidays—one that’s slower, calmer, and more intentional.
Shift How You See Preparation
We often think of “preparing” as doing—buying, planning, decorating, scheduling.
But what if this year, preparing looked more like clearing space instead?
- Space in your home, so there’s room for memories to unfold.
- Space in your schedule, so you can actually enjoy what you’re saying yes to.
- Space in your mind, so gratitude has room to grow.
Preparation isn’t a sprint. It’s the quiet work of aligning your daily rhythms with what matters most—before life speeds up.
This November, Set the Tone
Before the rush begins, decide how you want this season to feel.
Not perfect, not magical—just steady.
Light a candle when you start dinner.
Tidy one small space.
Say no to one thing that doesn’t fit.
Write down three things you’re thankful for.
Lot's of festive activities outside the home
More evenings spent at home
These small, steady choices are how we root deep before December.
And when we live this way—slow, intentional, and sure—our homes start to follow our lead.
If you don't set the tone for you holiday season, the pace of this world will definitely set it for you.
I want to remind you that it's okay to have a slow holiday season. It's okay to stay in and enjoy the coziness of your home with your family.
So take the next couple weeks to set intentions, decide the pace you want to move forward with, clear the clutter to make room for all the "extra" that the holidays bring, and root deep into what matters most so that your soul is full going into a busy season. Nail down those rhythms that make managing your home feel lighter.
Until next time,
Lori
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