Do you know what I love about November? Other than full permission to wear scarves, boots, and chunky sweaters galore, I love the anticipation of the season to come. It’s a month to push in and look outward, a chance to practice gratitude daily, and an excuse to enjoy lots of pumpkin flavored treats while you’re at it, too! Thanksgiving is arguably my favorite holiday, mainly because it signals the beginning of Christmas, but also because it’s a time to gather. Every November reminds me of the importance of community — intentional community, not just the see-you-every-once-in-a-while-but-otherwise-keep-up-on-social-media kind we often end up with.

I don’t find it coincidental that the month of October — often the busiest month of the year for photographers — found me devouring two books firmly standing against the culture of “busy-ness” we’ve created (Present over Perfect and Loving My Actual Life for those interested!). I’m slowly but surely recognizing that productivity and efficiency, two things I’ve always prided myself on, stand firmly in the way of true community. Relationships are inherently inefficient, and true productivity in community requires slowing down and being. Instead of rushing through my hours, I want to savor these days and store them up in my heart. Will you join me?

November Goals

• Continuing to pause each day to intentionally be thankful for what I’ve been given
• Finish editing and send off all fall weddings
• Print & mail out Bridal Guides to 2017 couples
• Finalize this year’s Christmas card
• Hang gallery wall in fireplace room
• Host our second annual Thanksgiving breakfast!
• Revisit “Loving My Actual Life” and create action items to apply to my own days
• Keep up with my Beth Moore bible study
• Shoot my LAST wedding of 2016!!!!
• Bake a pumpkin pie and round three of our favorite sugar cookies!

Happy November, friends!

Indianapolis, IN