November. It’s a funny sort of month between October and December and (unless you’re lucky enough to live in America and celebrate thanksgiving) there doesn’t ever seem to be anything going on.
It’s dark in the morning and in the night and with Halloween over and Christmas just a tiny bit too far away to start the festivities (boo ☹).
But I think this year we should all try and love November a little bit more, and although I would very much like to wrap up in a blanket and hibernate for the month, here are some extra ideas on how to enjoy this in between kind of month..
1. Celebrate bonfire night
Remember when you were a child and bonfire night brought a certain magic to November, with sparkles in the sky and at your fingertips (literally – who doesn’t love sparklers?) Okay now add the smell of the bonfire, the taste of s’mores and hotdogs and mulled wine (or a voddy and coke because we can’t all be that sophisticated!) Most cities hold various bonfire events – get yourself wrapped up and enjoy!
2. Go on a walk
Okay, okay here me out. Please. You don’t have to be Bear Grylls and go on a massive hike but there’s definitely something refreshingly calming about walking through a forest (or even just some leaves) during the autumn time. It’s also a great way to relax away from the stress of essays and deadlines (woohoo student life!) If you have a dog to walk, even better. Sunsets are particularly beautiful too (but sadly rare) this time of year so if you have the chance to see one – take it.
3. Make food. Lots and lots of food.
Summer has long gone by now and this is England, so the next six months you will spend wrapped in layers of jackets, scarfs and sweatshirts (especially in Lancaster apparently!) So there’s no-guilt in having a few extra treats! S’mores are always a winner, but if you’re feeling extra-ambitious you could bake apple pies, salted caramel muffins or even popcorn. I feel hungry just writing this.
4. Go shopping
I always say if you’re feeling a bit down – which is inevitable on some of the gloomy days in November – there’s nothing retail therapy can’t solve. Head into your nearest city centre with some friends and treat yourself to a new bag, scarf, gloves, coat, jumper, sweater literally ANYTHING. Shops are the best this time of year with so many cosy pieces, you don’t even have to spend your entire student loan (highly recommend Primark!)
5. Have a movie night
When the rain is lashing down on your window (again, shout out to Lancaster) I completely agree that shopping, walking and anything involving going outdoors is out of the question. And honestly, I love the idea of putting on a facemask, getting into your cosiest pj’s and fluffy socks, making the biggest hot chocolate (cream and marshmallows too obviously?) and snuggling up with some blankets to watch Netflix. Yes please.
I hope that this post gave you a little inspiration to find the silver linings in November and make it a good month!
(All images from i.pinimg.com)