These days, I have a lot of free time. You know how when you’re busy, there are so many things you would rather be doing? And then, when you finally have free time, you don’t do those things? I think it is kind of universal. For example, I would love to read all of the books on my bookshelf and do yoga and clean the house, but in reality, I may not do those things when given the opportunity.

Anyway, I am trying hard to be productive during my few weeks of having a light schedule. I plan to treat my e-courses as real “school” courses and complete many things on the 22 before 23 list. Things are going well, and I feel like I am living my dreams. :)

1. Moving into this new house, I thought I would create a well thought out wall of art in my room. Then, I bought a pretty tassel garland from Everly Lane and decided to fill my wall with things that give me joy. Yes, it kind of looks just like my college dorm room, but I love waking up and seeing things that make me thankful and happy.

2. I am taking Arrow and Apple‘s e-course, The Study of Light. I bought all of the equipment from Ace Hardware and have yet to use it. That’s what this week is for :)

3. Sometimes this just happens.

4. Did you know that I love glitter? Ha, ha. I used these for the glitter ornament tutorial I posted the other day. Many more sparkly projects are coming soon.

I loved this month. It was a month of change. New perspectives, new friendships, new inspiration, new beginnings, etc. So much new stuff! December will be even better. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

This month, a lot of great things took place:

First thing’s first. I voted for the first time! When the last presidential elections took place, I was still seventeen. I know, I know. I’m a baby! I also bought myself a garland of tassels from the lovely Everly Design. They make such great party decorations. Was I throwing a party? No. Sometimes you just have to treat yourself. My garland is hanging above my bed right now, which makes for inspiring thoughts upon waking up. Although, I’ve been spending most nights on the couch since our Christmas tree makes everything feel so dang cozy.

Somewhere along the way, I turned 22. I celebrated probably for a full twenty four hours. And I created a hypothetical wish list. Switzerland may not be happening anytime soon, but you know I’m making that pizza asap. I created some goals to focus on throughout this year, which I think will be fun and (hopefully) not stressful.

Speaking of cooking, I’ve kinda sorta developed an interest in cooking. I have never enjoyed it much but I needed a new way to keep busy. For Thanksgiving, I looked up a bunch of yummy lookin’ cranberry sauce recipes and I decided to make red wine cranberry sauce. So good. I have been cooking for a couple of weeks now, and I am liking it! It’s weird.

I have become obsessed with finding the perfect vintage poncho. Actually, I may have found it at a vintage shop the other day, but I didn’t even buy it. Hooray for self control :) Soon, though, I’ll have one of these wearable daytime blankets.

And last but not least, I created my first outfit post! I’m a plain jane kind of lady (though I do love me some brightly colored pants). I like being comfy. But I also shop a lot, and I thought that outfit posts would help me to mix it up more. Only in this post, I’m wearing 80% Target, so… I’ll try again later :)

Well, I’m off to help a friend shoot a wedding today! Happy last day of November.

Yesterday, we all gathered at my grandma’s house. It was such a special day. I ended up making the red wine cranberry sauce from Alexandra’s Kitchen. I have so many extra cranberries, so I’m thinking about making orange rosemary cranberry sauce next, because…I guess I’m not willing to let Thanksgiving be over quite yet.

We ended the day with pie and a few games of bocce ball. I’m feeling so thankful for my fam :)

Tonight, I’m ready to get into the holiday season by making lots of hot apple cider and decking our house with lights and festive decor. Off to go get supplies with the roomie :) and you know we’re wearing Christmas sweaters.