Cosy November To Do List

November is here, and I think it’s time we start embracing those colder mornings, darker evenings and all the little things that make this time of year so lovely. October always feels like the beginning of autumn, but November is when I really start to notice the change towards winter. The leaves are nearly all gone, the heating starts going on, and suddenly there’s nothing better than coming home, getting into your pyjamas and lighting a candle.

I thought I’d put together a little November to-do list, filled with seasonal activities, things to catch up on and a few ideas to help prepare for the winter months ahead. Nothing too ambitious, just a collection of things to make the most of the season!

A little autumn-to-winter home refresh

Now that the colder weather is settling in, it’s the perfect time to give the house a little refresh. Swap your lighter bedding for something thicker, bring out all your favourite blankets and make your living spaces feel a little cosier. It’s also worth having a little wardrobe clear-out, putting away those summer clothes and making sure your winter coats, scarves and boots are ready to go. I’d also use this month to check the heating, dig out the hot water bottles and stock up on your favourite candles.

Make the most of the last of autumn

Although we’re slowly moving into winter, there’s still plenty of autumn to enjoy. Make time for a few countryside walks, visit your local garden centre or find a new coffee shop to try. I’d love to spend a little more time outdoors this month, taking photographs of the changing landscape and enjoying those crisp, chilly mornings. It’s also a lovely time to visit a woodland, especially when there’s still a little colour left in the trees.

Cosy evenings indoors

I think November is when the cosy evenings really begin! It’s the perfect excuse to catch up on your autumn reading list, find a new series to watch or revisit some old favourite films. Perhaps spend an afternoon baking an apple crumble, making homemade soup or trying a new seasonal recipe. And, of course, don’t forget those little evenings dedicated to absolutely nothing other than a good book, a warm drink and a lit candle.

Start thinking about Christmas

I know some people like to wait until December, but I think November is a lovely time to start getting organised for Christmas. Have a little look through your gift lists, start picking up presents and perhaps visit a Christmas market or two. You could also start thinking about decorations, planning festive recipes and deciding when you’d like to put your tree up. There’s no need to rush into Christmas, but having a few things organised beforehand makes December feel that little bit more relaxed.

Get ready for the colder months

Alongside all the lovely seasonal activities, November is a good opportunity to get a few practical things sorted before winter properly arrives. Check that your car is ready for colder mornings, stock up on winter essentials and make sure you have plenty of warming meals and easy recipes for those evenings when you don’t fancy doing much. It’s also worth thinking about your winter skincare, getting your boots ready for rainy walks and making sure you’ve got enough gloves and scarves.

A little time for yourself

Finally, I’d love to make November a month of enjoying the slower things. Spend a Sunday morning journalling, take yourself on a little coffee date or have an afternoon away from your phone. Perhaps start a new book, print some photographs from the year or make a little list of things you’d like to do before December arrives. I think it’s important to remember that not every day needs to be filled with plans, and sometimes the nicest thing you can do is simply enjoy being at home.

Before we welcome December…

November is such a lovely in-between month. There’s still a little bit of autumn left to enjoy, but we’re also beginning to look forward to everything winter brings. Rather than rushing through the month, I’d like to make more of an effort to enjoy the little things, get organised where I can and make time for some seasonal traditions.

So, make yourself a cup of tea, pick a few things from this list and enjoy November at your own pace.

Happy November, and thank you for reading!

Sincerely,

Eleanor