Over the past several years I’ve had some amazing, on-a-high, joy-filled moments.

 

But I’ve also had others that were dark, where I wondered how I would even keep going, sprinkled in amongst many that were just average, and kind of “meh”. And I’ve learned that on these more difficult or average, no-spark, feeling like I’m trapped in this feeling kind of days, there’s one thing that really keeps me going: Having something to look forward to.

 

Having something to look forward to keeps me, well, looking forward!

 

It keeps me from getting stuck in the moment that I’m in, thinking that it’s the only feeling or circumstance that I’ll ever be in again. It reminds me that life keeps moving, and that there’s always something good on the horizon.

Now don’t get me wrong.

There are some days when finding something to look forward to feels like an impossible task! There are times when the best I’ve been able to come up with is looking forward to getting back into bed later that day. But I’ve learned that if that’s the best I can do, at least its something to keep me going. And we all need something.

 

That’s why I’ve decided to start sharing my monthly lists of what I’m looking forward to with you.

 

I hope to inspire you to make a list of your own, no matter how long, and no matter what life stage, mood or circumstance you’re experiencing right now. I want to encourage you to keep your eyes ahead, especially if you’re feeling stuck where you are at this time.

So here’s my list for November, of both the big and small things I’m looking forward to this month.

Now don’t be fooled...I’m starting this in a month where I happen to have a good number of big things coming up! But I’m certain there will be other months when all I have to share are the small things, and I’ll be struggling to come up with them. And if that’s you this month, your list is no less valuable! Keep your focus forward on whatever you can, no matter how small.

So here goes…

 

The Big Things

 

1. Getting together with my college girlfriends:

Me and my college gals are headed back to our old stomping grounds. Back to campus, and back to our old hang outs! We only see one another once, maybe twice a year if we are lucky, and we haven’t been on campus together in seven years, so this is a much needed and anticipated get-together!

2. Girls night at my apartment:

I’ve been craving some girl time lately, so I decided to plan a little girls-night-in! We are doing an exchange of our favorite things (more details to come in a future post!), and of course, indulging in snacks and a little wine!

3. Trans-Siberian Orchestra:

Seeing the TSO has been on my bucket list for years, and last year I got to cross it off by seeing them in DC! This year, they’re making their way to Baltimore, and I can’t wait to see them again! If you’ve never been, GO.

4. Thanksgiving with the fam:

I wouldn’t trade a holiday with my family for the world. I’m incredibly and undeservedly blessed with a loving, hilarious, crazy crew and I can’t wait for us to be together for Turkey Day! (and also...stuffing!)

 

The Little Things

 

1. Shopping with my mom:

We always go out on Black Friday (in the evening...yes, they still have sales then, and no crowds!) and also hit all the little craft shows and Christmas pop-up shops. This mama-daughter time is probably one of my favorite parts of the holiday season (did you know that, Mom?!).

2. Daily lattes:

I recently bought an espresso maker, and some days, knowing that if I get up, I can have coffee, is the only thing that gets me out of bed.

3. Watching "This is Us":

If you know me at all, you know I love looking forward to a show and watching it the night that it airs. Right now, that show is This is Us. Grab the tissues!

4. Taking Barre class during the workday:

The honest truth here is that I mostly look forward to the hot shower that I get to take after class.

5. Stitch Fix:

I get a new Stitch Fix every other month, and every time it’s like Christmas when I come home to that box! This month I asked for a new outfit for my birthday (coming up next month!). We’ll see if they deliver!

 

So, that’s what I’m looking forward to this month! Tell me, what’s on your list?!