November was a month! It was hard, my grief kinda had a moment but looking back, it was still a good month with so much positivity and happiness.
What’s your favorite way to connect with friends? I love in person get togethers. One-on-one coffee dates are my favourite way to connect with friends. But I do love gatherings, like braais or dinners – a few friends coming together to enjoy a meal.
How do you practice gratitude in daily life? I have to work really hard on this on a daily basis. I know I have so much to be grateful for, but sometimes I get caught up in the daily stress of life. So I try really hard to focus on the things I am grateful for by writing them down or taking photos or even sharing something on online.
Share a memory that always makes you smile? Kiara found this photo, she declared it was her favourite photo of herself and sums her up. It made me smile – the memory and how she sees it.
But I think a memory from November that makes me smile has to be that I have played 4 netball matches this month – I sucked at 3 of them but then did ok in the 4th one. But I had so much fun each game.
What traditions are most important to your family? I don’t know. I haven’t been that great in creating traditions if I am honest. We have started putting the tree up on the 1 November – just because it is never too early for some Christmas cheer.
Do you have any special holiday recipes or customs? My mom made us a beautiful big advent calendar – it is one with pockets that you pop goodies in. The kids love it and it is the one constant thing during the festive season.
When do you feel most at peace? Walking in Wolwespruit. The minute I step foot on the trail I feel instantly calm. The trees hold my secrets – they have seen me cry, they have watched me stumble and they have watched me get stronger. They have healed me.
How do you handle busy or overwhelming times? Walking. Yeah, it takes time out of my day which can feel overwhelming but I always feel so much calmer afterwards. Also on a practical level – making lists – lots and lots of lists.
What are you looking forward to most? Our upcoming holiday. It is just the 5 of us and I am so excited.
Do you have any end-of-year rituals or reflections? I usually try come up with a word for the year but it often happens well into January. We have started the new year in different places, I have been hung over, sober, sad and excited – my favourite way to start the year is to wake up on the 1st at home, with my family, spending a slow day easing into the year ahead.
What fills your heart with joy? My family. Spending time with David. Listening to Kiara moan about being a grown up. Watching Jack get excited at rock climbing. Seeing Emma thrive at school. Walking with the dogs.
How was your November?
