November sits in the middle of things. Between what has been and what’s still becoming. It’s the leaves that make me think of this as I walk through the neighborhood and see the trees in their various stages of undress.

Now that the time has changed, it’s dark early; the pace slows. It’s the quiet hinge of the year — a space for both gratitude and grit.

November has been a mix of steady progress and small reminders that God’s hand is still in all of it.

There’s a lot to be grateful for.

There are more than a few things making me smile.

Here are a few things I’m loving lately.

1. Progress. Slow but steady. The pace frustrates me sometimes, but movement, however small, is progress — and that can be celebrated.

2. Walks with my dog. A month ago, I couldn’t put weight on my foot. Now, Bailey and I are back to our neighborhood walks. He wags. I waddle. We’re both happy.

3. Opportunity. My mom always says, “Take the next best step.” I’m watching that unfold with my daughter as she grows in her modeling and acting journey. One step at a time and doors keep opening.

4. Reason to praise. This song is on repeat. There’s always a reason to praise the Lord. Even when it doesn’t look like it.  Especially then.

5. Books that stay with me. I just finished God Help the Child by Toni Morrison — haunting, beautiful, and full of truth about how even the hardest stories can lead somewhere good.

6. Knowing when God hears me. There were moments this month when I prayed and felt met — not with answers, but with insight. Insight that brought peace and let’s me know God hears and cares.

7. Rest. In a season that celebrates “doing,” I’m learning to rest without guilt. Because sometimes, slowing down is exactly what’s needed.

I didn’t go looking for joy — it found me. Sometimes joy just shows up and waits for you to notice.

What about you?
What’s been showing up lately?
What’s making you smile?

Let’s keep the conversation going.