Before we get to my November Goals (and my recap about October), I am beyond thrilled that today is Halloween!!
It’s Friday, it’s Halloween…really, it just doesn’t get much better! Kensington is so excited to head off to school today, Smith and I have some fun things to do until she gets home and then tonight, we will trick or treat until our feet give out (and then we’ll eat a lot of candy!). Happy Halloween to YOU!
These were my October Goals…I really can’t believe how quickly this month flew by! This time of year just moves FAST for me! October was a little unexpected…I went in for my annual skin check and then almost 5 weeks later, I’m still with stitches and recovering (I feel fine now but I’m just limited in my activity due to the number of stitches, length of incision and area which it’s located). I’m extremely thankful that I went for my annual exam and that my dermatologist was as proactive as she was…skin cancer and such is no joke friends!
1. Read 2 (or more) books
I actually read 5 books this month (thank you long carpool line and extra downtime due to minor procedure on back). I recapped them all here.
2. Walk more
Hallelujah! We finally have cooler weather here in North Texas! Kensington and I have been walking to and from school at least 3 days a week and it’s glorious! I enjoy the weather, stretching my legs before beginning my day, and most importantly, I enjoy the time with her.
3. Enjoy pumpkin everything
If it’s pumpkin, I’ve eaten it. All of it. Twice.
4. Finish up my Christmas shopping
Well, I’m not done but I’m really close! I just need to grab a few more things for a few more people. I’m storing this stuff in the most random spots (and keeping a list so that I don’t forget!). Next up, wrapping it all…
5. Volunteer at Kensington’s school once a week
I was able to do this three times this month and loved it every time. I’m really enjoying getting to know the office staff and teachers. I’m going to have kiddos at this school for the next decade, so I need to help out often! I’m hoping to keep volunteering weekly for the rest of the year.
6. Finish Ashby’s room
We are just about ready for our girl to come home! Her room is ready, her closet is getting full and our hearts are about to explode with love…we just can’t wait!
On to November…
Well, we’ll see how this shakes out, right? I love getting a jump start on all of this Christmas stuff in November, so that I’m not stressed in December. As for the more sleep stuff (you guys know I don’t sleep much!), I need to sleep a bit more…you know, have my energy up for the holidays!
Happy Halloween friends! May your day be filled with lots of love, laughter, silliness, tricks, treats and delights!
Betsy Maddox says
I love setting goals for the month. November and December are definitely two months that need goals and priorities just to get everything done! And I wish I could get by on as little sleep as you do, but I would seriously be a zombie. Enjoy your extra sleep this month! 🙂
Stacy P. says
Wanted to say THANK YOU for the recommendation of The Kitchen House! I got it yesterday, sat down and read the entire thing….
Lucky for me I had your Chicken Tortilla soup simmering in the crock pot! (couldn't let a thing like getting dinner for my family take me away from the book! haha!)
Erika Slaughter says
Eek!!!! The Slaughters are ready for Miss Ashby to arrive too!!! #wecantwait
kimm atwood says
I love writing my goals for the month…what a sense of accomplishment beig able to check off the list. Happy Halloween my friend
Narci says
I can't wait for our sweet girl! Hurry home, Ashby!
Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} says
You need to add a goal: Make the Sims family some type of festive bundt cake. Write it down and mark it off. Please and thank you.
dresselfamily.blogspot.com says
I love making goals!
Can u tell us how you shop for your kiddos for Christmas?
Yeah, can't wait for Ashby to come home
Cara Zimmer says
Nice job on your goals! I am not one to sit down and make them, but maybe it's time to start….
Kari Maddox says
Way to go! I love super stay at home mommies. I wish I could, but I will order presents online and wrap at night once the little ones are asleep but I will strive to be more like Shay 🙂
Kristin says
Love your blog and you've inspired me to write my goals for the month too! Just a thought as I was reading your goals (then I actually saw this mentioned in another comment): it would be fun to hear how you shop for your kids. I have two girls under 3 and I'm still getting the hang of the Christmas shopping – how many, toys v. books and clothes, santa gifts and gifts from family etc. I need a system and I'm not there yet. Would love to hear how you do it! Happy November!!
Jenny @ jennycollier.com says
Love Smith's Halloween costume. I so wanted Hudson to be a ninja turtle!
Also love how intentional you are with your goal setting. I have a ton on my to do list but very little that's just for me and non-work related. I would love to read 2 books as well this month. Thanks for the inspiration!
Molly M says
You killed those goals! Have a FANTASTIC Halloween!!
Jenny says
I love your monthly goals. It always jump starts me to get moving. 🙂
Queen In Between says
I found some Pumpkin butter while passing through World Market this week and have been enjoying it on english muffins! I'm crazy for pumpkin everything too but my family not so much.
Michele says
Great goals, and I'm stealing your tip about writing down where I hide all the gifts. I lose things every year!
Flmgodog says
October thru the end of December always seem to happen in warp speed. It's nice to have your holiday shopping out of the way before October is even over (my friends all think I am crazy)!
I know you have answered this several times before but do you think Ashby will be with you in your home by the end of the year?
Anonymous says
I agree with Kari Maddox – I wanna be a super mom like Shay too! Problem is I need sleep. I would LOVE to be finished with cmas shopping by the end of November. I would really enjoy hearing how you tackle the whole cmas gift giving part. .. do your kids make a list? How many gifts do you get f I r the kiddos? Etc
Stephanie Jennings says
Hi, Shay- a quick question about your Christmas shopping… Does that include your kids, I assume? Don't they give you a list closer to the holiday? Just curious. I shop earlier, but always don't finish up until after Thanksgiving. Hope you enjoyed Halloween!
Andrea Mitchael says
YAY for November goals! I am hosting a link-up for sharing Monthly Goals on my blog! I'd love if you added your great ones! Here is the link: http://bit.ly/1E9b8he
Have a lovely month!
~Andrea || Mitchael Journey
Hannah says
Hi Shay! My name is Hannah and I'm a 20 year old college student at UPenn! I've always loved your blog, but it's especially been enjoyable this semester as I'm in Sweden studying abroad. I can't explain it, but reading your sweet posts makes me a bit more grounded as I remember the things I love most- family, good food, decorating (especially for the holidays!) and list-making 😉 When I'm missing the US, it's always comforting to read a couple posts on your foodie and family blogs. Thanks for sharing your glowing aura and zest for life with everyone!!
xo Hannah
{Hi Sugarplum!} says
that is a great list…sleep more is on mine every month. Maybe one of these days I'll get to it! 😉
also, I have not bought ONE. SINGLE. GIFT. :O
Sam M says
I started making monthly goals in September after reading your post and I've been loving it! I work full time and making goals has kept me motivated in the evenings to do all of the fun things (trying new recipes, reading, and seasonal decorating) that I want to do! Thanks for the inspiration!
Heather Jacobson says
If you need a good book recco check out "A House in the Sky" by Amanda Lindhout. I could not put it down.