Monthly Wrap-Up: November 2017

We're in the home stretch now, folks.

Autumn always feels like it has its own rhythm. October-December is my favorite time of year, because of the holidays and family and lights and food and the Lord and so much more. (Sweaters, anyone?) There have been ups and downs this November, true, but I can say that I am thankful, and that I am working towards thanks. Now bring on Christmas, and the praise and joy! I'm ready to celebrate and sing.

What I've Learned This Month

Run, run, run. I need to run every other day (at least) to be a Fully Functional Human. I am one of those people that needs to exercise frequently or I will lose my mind, Susan. (No idea who Susan is, BTDubz. But I'm sure she would agree.) Running = life. No running = sad times.

It's important to think about (and pray for) others. I spend too much time focusing on my own problems! Lord, make my heart soft for those around me. Help me to listen, care and love on others!

Things I Loved in November

Photography. I really love taking photos to capture little moments. It's fun to see my world through the lens, and helps add a bit of flair to my content for the blog.

Writing. Yo, NaNoWriMo kicked me in the tookus and I didn't win (*sniff*) but I did learn it's important to KEEP ON WRITING even if you don't feel like it. "Dreamland" took a few unexpected twists and I'm going to finish this story hopefully by early 2018 at the latest. I'm a slow writer but imma keep at it because I love this novel.

December Goals

To love the Lord my God. Especially with Christmas coming up, I just want this month to be a glow of Christ's warmth. I don't have all the answers but I'm His, and that's the only thing that matters at the end of the day. ♥

The Month in GIF-Form

What about you?

What was your November like? Did you participate in NaNoWriMo? Have any fun December plans? Tell me about your lives, my people!

Playlist: 14 Glorious November Tunes

Is it time for a new playlist already? HECK YES IT IS

I'm not going to lie, a lot of November (at least musically) was spent either waiting for or listening to Taylor Swift's new album. BUT NEVER FEAR - there are more than just Swift songs on this playlist (12 more, in fact). And this post features twice the usual amount of recommendations because I just really love sharing groovy tunes with y'all. ♥

"Friends" - Justin Bieber

I know, I know, it's the Biebz, but give it a chance! Maybe it's this super sweet commercial or the fact that Jelena is a thing again (yes, I'm that person), but I'm digging some Justin tunes lately. If you want to dance or need some sick background music for your cardio workouts, this is a great jam.

Like this? Try "Midnight City" by M83.

"Destruction of the Disgusting Ugly Hate" - Soko

If you're looking for sad indie jams, look no further. This entire album by Soko details heartbreak and missing someone, and plays like a sad, lonely walk through a snowy city. This song is simple and beautiful and almost wistful? I love that interlude towards the end. This is a song I write to all the time, especially when I'm working on "Dreamland."

Like this? Try "Happy Birthday" by the Innocence Mission.

"I Miss You" - Blink-182

This one's a classic. I have nothing more to say about this.

Like this? Try "Call to Arms" by Angels & Airwaves.

"This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things" - Taylor Swift

November was the month of the Swift. I won't lie, "reputation" was on repeat this month quite a bit, and it was AWESOME. I'm a fan of Taylor Swift's music in just about any form, especially sassy songs like this one. But alas, I cannot find a YouTube link to this song and I don't think it's on streaming sites. It's worth including, however, if you grab a copy of the album!

Like this? Try "New Year's Day," especially if piano ballads are more your speed.

"Mind" - Declan McKenna

When Declan's "What Do You Think About the Car?" album was released in July, I didn't buy it straight away. AND WHAT A MISTAKE THAT WAS. Declan is only 18, but he is immensely talented. And, yo, he has stuff to SAY. His music is so raw and honest and that's what I love about it. So much angst. So genuine. Give the dude a listen, y'all.

Like this? Try "Cigarette Daydreams" by Cage the Elephant.

"Call It Off" - CHVRCHES for The Con X: Covers

Fun story: I purchased this album on a complete whim when I heard it playing overhead at my favorite record store. It's an entire album of covers by rad artists in celebration of the 10th anniversary of Tegan and Sara's "The Con" album. And this song describes my novel so wonderfully. If you like ethereal angst, this one's for you. It always makes me think of someone sinking to the bottom of the ocean peacefully? I don't know if that makes sense, but...give it a listen!

Like this? Try "Myth" by Beach House.

"Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" - Darlene Love

Yes, I know. A CHRISTMAS SONG IN NOVEMBER?! I'm not sorry. I won't apologize. This has to be one of my absolute favorite Christmas songs in existence, if not my very favorite. Give it a listen, y'all; it's post-Thanksgiving now, we're in the clear. :)

Like this? Try "All I Want for Christmas is You" by Mariah Carey.

What about you?

Did you have a good Thanksgiving? Are there any songs that have your heart lately? And has anyone started listening to Christmas music yet? Tell me below in the comments!

How to Just Flat Out Love Your Life

Hello, my people!

I gotta admit: I've been in sort of a negative slump lately. And let me tell ya, there's nothing like being in a bad mood to zap your creativity, thankfulness and energy. BUT OH NO MY PEOPLE, NOT TODAY. Because we are right around the corner from Thanksgiving (how?!) and the blogging community is buzzing with thanks and our lives are too rich to waste. 

For so long I've been comparing my talents, my style, my body, and EVERYTHING ELSE to other people. And it's been getting me down.
But you know what helps me just love life? Being grateful.

Life is not picture perfect or exciting all of the time, and neither am I, but it's always beautiful. Honestly, a huge shout out to the Lord for keeping me sane even when I refuse to give thanks. Without Him, I've got nothing.

Flat Out Loving Life Right Now Because:

Every morning I wake up and I can see and breathe and run. I am healthy and alive.

I bought this absolutely ridiculous candle that smells just like hot chocolate and it's giving me serious Christmas vibes. Please go smell it in real life and tell me you love it just as much as I do. Yes, I am devoting a whole point on my list to a candle. THIS IS A BIG DEAL FOR ME OK

I love my job! It's wonderful to get to write articles and design marketing campaigns on the daily. I am so thankful to do something creative each day at work, and I love my co-workers.

My family. Always, always grateful for these goobers.

What about you?

You didn't think I was going to leave you guys off the list, did you? NO SIR. I am grateful for every single person who reads and comments and stumbles upon this blog. Y'all brighten my day all the time!! What do you love about your life? Has anyone started listening to Christmas music yet? Just me? ♥