I took a different approach when I was creating the November insert for my Inspiration Notebook and decides to sum up the month with a bucket list.

November is a really busy time of year for me as I’m prepping to decorate client homes for the holidays and working to finish up design projects.  Then you throw in managing my role as President of a non-profit board, blog projects and getting myself ready for the holidays.  By creating a bucket list, I’m hoping it keeps me focused on making time to relax and enjoy life.

 

 

 

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My November Bucket List

1. Purge My Closet.  I feel like I just transitioned my closet for summer.  And despite having temps in the 80’s, I know it’s time to get my closet winter ready.  While I’m organizing things, I also plan to purge pieces I don’t wear anymore and donate them.  Right before the holidays, the need in charity stores rises so it’s a perfect time give to a good cause.
2. Visit Biltmore Estates.  I’ve always wanted to visit Biltmore this time of year to see the holiday decor.  A weekend drive will also give us the opportunity to enjoy the mountains and see the leaves in their full fall glory.
3. Plant Paperwhites.  This is another thing I’ve always wanted to do at the holidays.  I love the smell of paper whites and want to give forcing bulbs a try.  I found this easy to follow guide that I’m sure I’ll be referencing a lot.
4. Bake Cookies–I’m in somewhat a nesting mood and have the urge to bake cookies. I’m going to start with classic chocolate chip cookies and may try something fancy as we get closer to Christmas.
5. Enjoy Hot Chocolate & Apple Cider.  I’m not a coffee drinker so hot beverages during fall and winter are my thing. You can find my favorite spiked cider recipe here. 
6. Make Handmade Christmas Cards.  For years I made my Christmas cards by hand and really loved doing it.  Last year I managed to make a handful but this year I’m determined to make all my holiday cards by hand.  I’ll be sure to share the design once I have it nailed down.
7. Buy the Southern Living Christmas Book.  I’m a sucker for the annual Southern Living Christmas Book and this years looks really good.    Do any of you collect the SL books? (affiliate link)
8. Get My Christmas Shopping Done.   Usually by November I have most of my Christmas shopping completed.  Not this year!  The only thing I have so far this year is a mental list of items to buy.  In the next week or two I’m going to put pencil to paper and create a detailed list so I can start shopping.  
9. Give An Unexpected Gift.  I’ve got a fun gift basket idea that I’m working on this month.  Once it’s all done I’m going to give the basket to someone who won’t expect it.  I love a good surprise, especially during the holiday season.
10. Watch My Favorite Christmas Movie.  I’m a bit addicted to Christmas movies and have watched a couple last weekend on the Hallmark channel.  I can’t wait to pull out my favorite movie (The HomeComing) and snuggle up with some popcorn to watch on Thanksgiving night.
11. Buy Poinsettia At Home Depot. If you don’t know about the Black Friday Poinsettia sale at Home Depot on Black Friday, you can thank me later.  If you already know about it, then I might see you in the check out lane. All day, the day after Thanksgiving, Home Depot sells their poinsettia for $.99 cents.  It’s a great time to snag a few (or a lot) and even think about giving some as gifts.
12. Be Thankful.  Probably the most important thing on my bucket list is to be thankful for everything I have in my life.  Sometimes we get so busy living life that we forget to stop and remember all the good we have.  I hope you’ll join me and take a moment out of each day to stop and give thanks.

Who else loves this time of year and what’s got you inspired in November?