10 Ways for Loving the Ordinary List in November

Struggling to find joy in everyday moments as the year winds down?

Here are 10 simple ways to embrace the ordinary in November, turning routine tasks into moments of calm and connection.

From quiet mornings to evening rituals, these tips will help you rediscover the beauty in your daily life and appreciate the small joys often overlooked.

#1. Perfect Your Apple or Pecan Pie Recipe for Fall Gatherings

The Sweet Spot of Tradition and Creativity

Fall gatherings call for something special, and few things bring people together like the smell of freshly baked pie.

Whether you’re perfecting your classic apple or pecan pie recipe, it’s about more than just dessert it’s about crafting memories.

Testing, Sharing, and Celebrating

The beauty of pie-making is the testing. Maybe the crust isn’t flaky enough, or the filling too runny these are just excuses to bake again!

Share your “test pies” with neighbors or friends. A small informal gathering is often the best way to perfect your recipe.

#2. Create a Cozy Ambience with Candles and Candlesticks

Setting the Mood with Warm Lighting

There’s something inherently calming about the soft flicker of a candle, and in November, that warmth becomes even more inviting.

As the days grow shorter and the chill in the air deepens, filling your home with candles and candlesticks creates a welcoming sanctuary.

Embrace Seasonal Scents

The impact of scent on our emotions is powerful, and during November, you can use candles to enhance the mood through fragrance.

Opt for warm, autumn-inspired scents like cinnamon, clove, and vanilla.

#3. Host a Movie Night with a Fall-Inspired Popcorn Station

Create a Cozy Atmosphere with a Fall-Inspired Movie Night

There’s something magical about settling in for a movie night during the crisp fall season.

As the temperatures drop, our desire for warmth and comfort increases. Hosting a fall-themed movie night is the perfect way to embrace that seasonal charm.

Elevate the Experience with a Popcorn Station

What’s a movie night without popcorn? But this time, don’t settle for the microwave variety go all out with a fall-inspired popcorn station!

Set up a small bar where guests can grab freshly popped corn and sprinkle on fall-themed toppings like caramel drizzle, pumpkin spice seasoning, or even maple syrup.

#4. Prepare Your Space for Holiday Guests by Decluttering and Decorating

Start with the Essentials: Decluttering for Space and Peace

Holiday guests bring joy, but they also bring the need for a clutter-free, welcoming home. Before you can think about decorations, it’s vital to declutter your space.

A Home That Feels Like a Hug: Add Cozy, Thoughtful Touches

Once the clutter is under control, it’s time to add warmth and personality to your home with simple but meaningful decorations.

Think of your space as a canvas use warm colors, plush throws, and textured pillows to make every room feel inviting.

#5. Plan Your Reading List for Winter and Share with Friends

Curating Your Winter Reads

Winter is the perfect season to dive into a cozy reading list.

As the days get shorter and the evenings longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book.

Now’s the time to start planning your reading list for those chilly nights.

Adding Books that Spark Conversation

If you’re sharing your list, choose books that provoke thought or discussion.

Books that dive into complex human emotions, societal issues, or moral dilemmas can be fantastic conversation starters.

#6. Order Firewood and Prepare for Cozy Nights by the Fireplace

Stocking Up for Comfort

As the temperature drops, there’s something deeply satisfying about preparing for cozy nights by the fire.

Firewood is not just fuel; it’s the heart of those crisp, late-fall evenings spent unwinding after a busy day.

Preparing for Those Cozy Nights

Once your firewood is in place, think ahead. Stack your wood properly to ensure it stays dry ideally in a location that’s elevated and covered.

A well-stacked woodpile allows for airflow, which helps keep the wood dry and ready to use.

#7. Start a New Thanksgiving Tradition with a Group Photo

Capture Memories in a New Way

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, sharing a meal, and celebrating the blessings of the season.

But in the hustle of preparing the perfect turkey or pie, we often forget to capture the magic of these moments.

Creating Lasting Keepsakes

Once the photos are taken, don’t just let them sit on your phone. Print them out, frame them, or create a family photo album dedicated to Thanksgiving memories.

#8. Organize a Gratitude Journal for the Season of Thanks

Why a Gratitude Journal Matters Now More Than Ever

In a world filled with endless distractions and stress, sometimes it’s hard to focus on what’s going right.

That’s where a gratitude journal comes in, especially in November when the season of thanks reminds us to pause and reflect.

Share the Love and Encourage Others

Why keep all that gratitude to yourself? Encourage friends or family members to join in the practice.

Some people find it helpful to share their daily entries with a loved one, creating a sense of connection and shared positivity.

#9. Skip the shopping malls and visit a local museum

Support Local, Celebrate Culture

By choosing a museum visit over a trip to the mall, you’re not just skipping the crowds you’re uplifting your community.

Many small museums rely on local visitors for funding, and every ticket purchase helps keep these institutions alive.

A Unique Gift-Giving Opportunity

If you’re worried about missing out on shopping, most museums have gift shops stocked with locally crafted items, books, and unique art pieces.

#10. Prepare Countdown Gifts and Treats for December

The Joy of Anticipation

There’s something magical about counting down to the holidays.

Preparing countdown gifts and treats for December can make the season even more special, turning each day into a little celebration.

Building Excitement for the Holidays

Countdown gifts are a fantastic way to build excitement for the month ahead, but they also offer a great opportunity to slow down and enjoy the moments leading up to the big day.