November 2025 – Sweat & Sparkle

Thankful

Right up there with Halloween, on my list of favorite holidays, is Thanksgiving. We don’t go crazy decorating for Thanksgiving like we do for Halloween, sure enough, though admittedly our living room has more than its fair share of leaves, acorns, garland, and pumpkins this time of year. We don’t buy heaps of candy or dress up in elaborate costumes. But I have been anticipating today with just as much excitement.

Thanksgiving is a quieter, more subtle holiday to me. Sentimental. It’s more about home, family, loved ones, remembering who brightens our days and brings a smile to our face. It’s taking the time to treasure who lights up our heart and to be thankful for each one of them. This day only comes once a year, and I intend to make every single second count.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Where Did the Weekend Go?

I knew before the weekend even started that it was going to fly by. My husband and I had plans both days, on top of the usual weekend chores, tasks, and to-do lists.

We tried something a little different for date night on Saturday and went on a behind-the-scenes animal feeding tour at a museum nearby with native animal exhibits. We toured the animal food prep kitchen, then got the chance to help feed river otters, cougars, and a black bear. It was awesome! The bear took a biscuit from my hand, and my husband got to feed her a grape, which she took gently, but not without sneaking a lick of his finger to see how he might taste!

On Sunday, I finished a large jewelry order for my online shop, washed and vacuumed my car since I can’t stand a dirty car, vacuumed the house because I also can’t stand a dirty house, then did a quick face mask and hopped into the shower so we could head out to meet one of the kids for dinner. We had a lot of fun and ended up just sitting and talking for a long time, the best kind of conversation: about anything and everything that popped into our heads, serious and funny and everything in between.

When we got home, we stayed up much too late, trying to hold onto the weekend as long as we could. I sat down with my planner to jot down reminders, and this upcoming week is going to be very busy too! Seems like there is something going on each day, besides the obvious: Thanksgiving, one of my favorite holidays. I can’t wait!

Peace

Every morning, I set the alarm at least 20 minutes earlier than I actually have to get up. I do it on purpose. That early morning time, in the shadows of the bedroom, snuggled under the covers, is something I treasure and look forward to.

I hit snooze, tuck back in, and my husband wraps me up tight in his arms. It’s peaceful, safe, happy. Often, I find myself dozing back off, because I am so comfy and content.

This morning, I hit snooze again…then again. I was chilly, so I tugged the quilt up to my chin, cozied back up to my husband’s chest, and thoroughly enjoyed the tranquil, soothing moment before the alarm went off one last time, and it was time to reluctantly climb out of bed.

Most days, I simply adjust, shift gears and dive into work once I get to the office. Today…nope. Stubbornly, petulantly, like a toddler stomping her foot during a tantrum, all I have wanted to do is go back home, to the peace and love and happiness that my husband and I share there.

He has told me more than once that he loves our house, but what makes it a home is me. I love that. It’s the greatest compliment I think I have ever received.

Today, that is all I want, and nothing else can take its place: I want to be with him. I want to be at home. And I can’t get back there soon enough.