Find Joy in November

November is Nostalgic. It arrives like a warm hug from an old friend. The air is cold, the leaves are crisp, and nature puts on its colorful farewell until spring. Every day feels cozy. Local Christmas festivities begin and plans for Thanksgiving gatherings and holiday parties fill the calendar. The anticipated season filled with family and friends brings comfort and coziness.

As the leaves change color and fall from the trees, you can see the deer chasing each other through the woods. Listen for the birds migrating in large flocks overhead. The ones who stay are busy preparing for winter. It's my favorite time of year to take intentional walks to watch the brilliant autumn show. I love hearing the leaves crunch under my feet and smelling autumn in the air. There is something new to see every day. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle that's beginning, so it's important to be intentional with slowing down.

If you're feeling the stress and pressure as the calendar fills up with family and friend gatherings, take a deep breath and remember how thankful you are for each one. Don't forget November is a time of thanksgiving and gratitude. Remind yourself each day of your blessings. What a gift it is to have people to love who love you right back. Don't let busyness steal your joy this season. Sink in to the warmth and love that's around you. Treasure each moment with loved ones like it's the last. Look at each gathering as a gift rather than an obligation. Each of us are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for. A heart filled with gratitude is the best way to walk through November.