November’s Good Things: Cozy Home Updates, Captivating Reads, and Travel Gems for a Joyful Season
Welcome to our monthly curation of delightful discoveries – a carefully compiled list of good things to do, buy, read, watch, and so much more, designed to inspire and enrich your everyday life.
Please note that some links within this article are affiliate links. Should you choose to click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission. Rest assured, this comes at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend products and services I genuinely believe in.
Hello, November! It feels like just yesterday we were basking in the warmth of summer, and yet here we are, embracing the crisp autumn air and the undeniable anticipation of the holiday season. It’s truly astonishing how quickly time flies, especially when we’re immersed in projects and life’s simple pleasures.
Despite the swift passage of time, I find myself brimming with excitement for this particular holiday season, and for several wonderful reasons. Naturally, reconnecting with family and friends in person is always at the forefront of our plans, bringing a warmth that no amount of chilly weather can diminish. But there’s an added layer of joy this year: it will be our very first Christmas celebrated in the farmhouse. This milestone makes the prospect of decorating our new home and hosting loved ones here feel incredibly special and truly a highlight of the year.
As you might expect, I’ll be sharing a wealth of holiday-themed content with you in the coming weeks. From festive decor ideas to delicious recipes and thoughtful gift guides, there will be plenty to inspire your celebrations. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend grabbing your free Holiday Planner. It’s an invaluable tool designed to help you organize your thoughts, prioritize what truly matters this season, and capture cherished memories and innovative ideas along the way.
Before we dive headfirst into all the holiday magic, let’s take a moment to reflect on the fantastic discoveries from October. This month’s “Good Things” list is particularly exciting, featuring everything from charming travel accommodations to significant home DIY updates and practical everyday essentials. Keep an eye out—a couple of these might just spark some brilliant Christmas gift ideas for your loved ones (or even for yourself!).
October’s Top Picks: Good Things You Need to Know About
A Century of Charm: The Lovingly Remodeled Hotel Prairie
Last month, in the whirlwind of activities, I completely overlooked sharing this absolute gem of a hotel, but it undoubtedly deserves a prominent mention. During Labor Day weekend, my husband and I embarked on a trip to visit friends in John Day, Oregon. Our stay led us to the delightful Hotel Prairie in Prairie City, Oregon, just a short drive away. This historic establishment, boasting over a hundred years of history, has undergone a meticulous and thoughtful renovation, expertly blending the timeless elegance of its past with the essential conveniences of modern living.
The moment you step into the lobby, as captured in the photo above, you’re greeted by an inviting ambiance that whispers tales of yesteryear while offering contemporary comfort. Adjacent to the lobby, a beautifully restored bar area beckons, perfect for enjoying small bites and refreshing drinks. One significant advantage that sets Hotel Prairie apart from many historic accommodations is that each room is equipped with its own private bathroom, a welcome modern amenity often sacrificed in older buildings. Adding to the unique charm, every room features vintage door headboards and framed quilt pieces, infusing each space with a personalized, artisanal touch that truly makes it feel like a home away from home.
Our experience with the staff was exceptional. We were arriving quite late, and they thoughtfully arranged for a key to be left for us – a wonderful old-school approach that added to the overall vintage feel of our stay. The hotel also boasts a charming outdoor patio area, perfect for unwinding, and a vintage kitchen on the first floor complete with a full-sized refrigerator, offering guests the practical convenience of storing their own food and drinks if needed. As someone who deeply appreciates historic places, Hotel Prairie was perfectly aligned with my tastes. More than just its historical appeal, it simply offers a fantastic and comfortable place to stay in the quaint town of Prairie City, all at a price comparable to chain hotels. If your travels ever take you to eastern Oregon, I wholeheartedly recommend a stay at this remarkable inn.
Farmhouse Kitchen’s Final Touch: Our DIY Stove Hood in Progress
It might seem unconventional to feature a project that’s not quite finished, but my excitement for our DIY stove hood is simply too great not to share it on this month’s list! This custom range hood represents the last major undertaking for our farmhouse kitchen, marking a significant step towards its complete transformation. We had, admittedly, put it off for a while, largely due to the perceived complexity of both the venting requirements and designing an aesthetic that would perfectly complement our unique space. But, as is often the case with procrastinated projects, it has unfolded much more smoothly than we anticipated, bringing a huge sense of accomplishment.
The practical benefits are already evident: the new vent system is incredibly efficient, and with the days growing shorter, the integrated light over the stove has become an invaluable addition, brightening our cooking area beautifully. When it came to design, I envisioned something simple yet elegant, featuring a subtle upward angle towards the ceiling. Crucially, I wanted to avoid shiplap, as our kitchen already boasts charming vintage beadboard walls, and I felt another textured element would be too much. Despite extensive searching for DIY hood vent plans, nothing quite matched my specific vision, so we decided to piece together our own custom solution, and I am absolutely thrilled with how it’s taking shape.
While the core structure is complete, there are still a few finishing touches that will elevate its design and integrate it seamlessly with our kitchen’s farmhouse aesthetic. We plan to add reclaimed 1x4s around the bottom base, concealing the stainless steel hood front and adding a rustic touch. To tie it in with our existing cabinetry, we’ll trim all the edges with shaker-style molding. Following that, it will be a process of meticulous caulking and painting to achieve a smooth, integrated finish. I promise to keep you updated on its progress and will definitely publish a detailed write-up once it’s fully completed, sharing all the steps and insights. In the meantime, even in its near-finished state, this DIY stove hood is truly a “good thing” that enhances both the functionality and beauty of our farmhouse kitchen. For those curious about the base unit, we opted for this Broan-NuTone Glacier Range Hood, which was an excellent, cost-effective choice for a unit we intended to customize and cover.
Elevating Our Living Room: Discovering New Urn Lamps
For years, the mercury glass lamps in our previous ranch-style cottage were a perfect fit, casting a lovely glow and complementing our decor beautifully. However, as we transitioned into the farmhouse, their aesthetic no longer resonated with the new space. They started to feel a bit too glitzy and insubstantial, almost fading into the background rather than anchoring the room as I desired. Compounding this, one of the lamps had sustained damage where the socket met the base, and efforts to repair it proved futile. It was clearly time for an upgrade, a refresh that would better align with our farmhouse’s more organic and substantial feel.
My heart was set on finding chunky, classic urn-shaped lamps, a style I believed would bring the right amount of weight and timelessness to the living room. Initially, I dedicated considerable time to scouring thrift stores, hoping to stumble upon a pair that I could lovingly repaint to match my vision. Alas, finding matching pairs of lamps, especially in such a specific, desired shape, proved to be quite a challenge in the world of second-hand treasures. When my thrift store quest yielded no success, I turned my attention to online searching. My ideal lamp featured a wood base, embodying the natural, rustic elegance I was aiming for.
However, the online search for genuine wood urn-shaped lamps quickly brought on a severe case of sticker shock! Prices often soared into the hundreds of dollars, far beyond my budget. Moreover, the prevailing design trend leaned towards large, bowl-shaped lamps, making the classic urn shape I desired surprisingly scarce. It was during this extensive search that I discovered these incredibly reasonably priced urn-shaped lamps with a wood-like finish at Target. Despite a few mixed reviews regarding the “wood-like” finish, their classic shape and accessible price point of around $50 (including the shade!) compelled me to take a chance. And I am so glad I did!
The moment I placed them on our side tables, I knew I had made the right choice; I absolutely loved them. They perfectly encapsulate the aesthetic I envisioned for the space, particularly their substantial and classic urn shape, which provides a grounded, organic feel without being overly heavy. I’m also genuinely impressed with the finish – it reads more as a rich, warm brown in our room, contrasting beautifully with the orange tones some reviews mentioned, and complements our decor wonderfully. Furthermore, I appreciate that their lighter color provides a pleasing contrast with the wood tops of our tables. The best part is, should I ever tire of the current finish, their timeless, classic shape means I can easily paint them in the future to adapt to evolving styles. If you’re also in the market for elegant, urn-shaped lamps that offer significant style without the exorbitant price tag, I highly recommend checking out these lamps here.
Embracing Warmth: My New Obsession with Wool Socks
For years, I’ve heard glowing reviews about Bombas wool socks, consistently lauded for their comfort and quality. Being someone who is perpetually cold – a fact that explains my deep affection for summer and warm climates! – a significant portion of my fall, winter, and even spring wardrobe consists of essential layers: silk and wool undershirts, cozy wool sweaters, and, of course, an abundance of wool socks. Given that I rely on wool socks almost daily for six to seven months out of the year, it’s no surprise that many of my previous pairs have developed holes or become thin and worn. So, when I came across a generous 25% off coupon (and I’m happy to share a similar 25% off link for you right here!), I decided it was finally time to put Bombas to the test.
To conduct a thorough comparison, I actually purchased a cheaper set of wool socks from Amazon at the same time I acquired my two Bombas pairs. My primary interest lies in their durability and how they stand up to extensive wear over time, so it will be a while before I can offer a definitive long-term update. I’m hoping to remember to share my findings in a future “Good Things List” once I’ve had ample time to assess their longevity. However, what I can confidently state right away is their immediate impression: Bombas socks are exceptionally cozy and remarkably comfortable. The moment you slip them on, you feel the difference in softness and cushioning. I opted for both a quarter sock and a half sock style, and I’ve found myself leaning towards the shorter quarter style as my personal favorite, offering just the right amount of warmth without feeling bulky.
Wool socks, in general, are a fantastic investment for anyone seeking warmth, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal for various activities and climates. Bombas takes this to another level with their thoughtful design and commitment to quality. If you’re in need of new socks or simply curious to experience the Bombas difference for yourself, I invite you to use my 25% off purchase link by clicking here. It’s a great opportunity to conduct your own comfort and wear test, and perhaps discover your new favorite pair of socks!
Unlocking Affordable Reads: Exploring Chirp Audiobook Sales
For avid audiobook listeners like myself, having multiple reliable sources for discovering new titles is key. While Audible remains my primary go-to for its vast selection, consistent daily deals, and frequent 2-for-1 sales, and my local library (via the Libby and Hoopla apps) provides an excellent free alternative, my third essential resource for discounted audiobooks is Chirp. If you haven’t heard of it, Chirp offers a unique and highly flexible model that sets it apart from subscription-based services.
The beauty of Chirp lies in its simplicity: there are no monthly fees, no complicated credit systems, and no points to keep track of. You simply browse their curated list of sale audiobooks, and if a title catches your eye, you purchase it directly. This straightforward approach allows for spontaneous discovery without the pressure of a recurring commitment. To stay informed about the latest deals, the best way to utilize Chirp is by downloading their app and signing up for their sale email notifications. These emails are thoughtfully curated; you can customize them to prioritize the genres you enjoy most, ensuring that the sales most relevant to your interests appear first. Of course, you always have the option to browse the complete list of all currently discounted books, though be warned: it can be quite an extensive list to scroll through each month!
Chirp’s sale audiobooks are typically priced very attractively, ranging from as low as $1.99 to $6.99, making them a fantastic way to expand your digital library without breaking the bank. Each listing clearly indicates how long the sale will last with a countdown, so you can grab a deal before it expires. While the platform offers a substantial number of titles on sale, I’ve personally found that the selection of books I’m eager to read can sometimes be limited, or they might be titles I’ve already enjoyed. This is why it remains my third choice, despite the excellent discounts. However, reading preferences are deeply subjective, and the value of having another accessible option for affordable audiobooks is undeniable. I genuinely enjoy checking out their sales each month, as there’s always the potential to discover a hidden gem or a new author. If you’re looking to explore a flexible, discount-driven approach to audiobooks, you can use this link to receive a generous 20% off your very first purchase and start building your collection!
October’s Literary Adventures: A Roundup of My Latest Reads
My reading list for October offered a delightful mix of genres, from captivating mysteries to thought-provoking non-fiction and an utterly brilliant science fiction novel that has already secured a spot on my “best books of the year” list.
A Rule Against Murder, Louise Penny: I’ve wholeheartedly embraced the world of “cozy mysteries” and am thoroughly enjoying Inspector Armand Gamache’s series. This, the fourth installment, transported me to a sweltering summer at a historic inn, an atmospheric backdrop that added layers to the story. I particularly appreciated the deeper dive into Peter’s character – a familiar face from previous books – exploring his family dynamics and upbringing, elements that had only been hinted at before. We also get a more intimate look at Gamache’s relationship with his wife and further insights into his own family history, enriching the overall character development. However, I found the core mystery itself somewhat less compelling than in previous books; the resolution felt a bit unsatisfying, and I struggled to fully invest in the motives or the conclusion. Despite this minor reservation, my enjoyment of the characters and their world remains strong, and I’m eagerly awaiting my library hold for the next book in the series!
Project Hail Mary, Andy Weir: Oh. My. Goodness. This book is not just good; it’s phenomenal. Penned by the brilliant author of The Martian, it carries many of the same elements we adored in his previous work: a meticulously crafted scientific premise that lends plausibility to the sci-fi elements, the vastness of outer space, and a lone protagonist striving for survival against incredible odds. But *Project Hail Mary* elevates these themes, amplifying the stakes with a looming Earth meltdown and seemingly insurmountable challenges, all while introducing an alien species unlike anything I’ve encountered in literature before. I hesitate to reveal too much, as the unfolding narrative is a key part of its magic. What I will say is that every person I know who has read this book absolutely adores it, even those who typically shy away from science fiction. The story is imbued with such profound humanity and camaraderie, transcending genre boundaries, and the ending – which I genuinely did not foresee – is nothing short of perfection. This book is, without a doubt, going straight onto my year-end “best books” list.
Effortless, Greg McKeown: So many profound insights in this book resonated deeply with me, much like his earlier work, Essentialism: The Pursuit of Less. The central message that struck me most powerfully was this:
“Life doesn’t have to be as hard and complicated as we make it.”
A resounding “Amen!” to that, wouldn’t you agree? I particularly appreciated the book’s practical format. McKeown adeptly presents a common problem, illustrates how others have successfully navigated similar situations, and then provides actionable steps for change. At the conclusion of each section, he thoughtfully recaps these steps, making it incredibly easy to follow, even when listening to the audiobook (which the author himself reads, adding another layer of engagement). I diligently compiled a list in my book journal of key takeaways I’m eager to implement in my own life. These include:
- Embracing the concept of producing “good enough” work and letting go of the incessant urge to “fiddle” with things (a perpetual challenge for my perfectionist tendencies).
- Implementing a brilliant trigger strategy: any time I find myself complaining, I must immediately articulate something I am grateful for, shifting my perspective.
- Conquering procrastination (often a byproduct of that perfectionism) by identifying and taking the most obvious, tiny first step, no matter how small.
- Creating a “done for the day” list and, crucially, stopping work once those tasks are accomplished, promoting better work-life balance.
Truly invaluable insights, wouldn’t you say?
Birds of a Feather (Maisie Dobbs book 2), Jacqueline Winspear: I’m still slightly bewildered to find myself engrossed in two “cozy mystery” series, given that I’ve never been a huge mystery reader. However, what profoundly draws me to the Maisie Dobbs series is Jacqueline Winspear’s masterful ability to establish Maisie’s character and her world. Set in the early 1920s, it feels entirely believable that a female private investigator like Maisie would possess the unique talents and resources to forge a career in this field, against the backdrop of a society still reeling from WWI. The depth of emotion and humanity in the characters is another aspect I deeply appreciate. Many are grappling with the visible and invisible wounds of the Great War, and through Maisie’s journey, we witness her resilience, her struggles, and her imperfections in navigating both her cases and her personal life. It’s a compelling exploration of post-war society and the strength of the human spirit.
The Ball & The Cross, G.K. Chesterton: This book presents a fascinating challenge to review. It’s a farcical tale set around the turn of the last century (or possibly earlier), centering on an atheist and a deeply religious man whose philosophical disagreements escalate to the point where they decide to engage in an illegal duel. Their subsequent journey across the country, constantly thwarted in their attempts to find a suitable dueling ground and often being chased away, eventually leads to a peculiar sort of friendship. However, the narrative takes a profoundly strange turn in the final few chapters, a shift that, frankly, I found quite perplexing. I’m quite certain Chesterton was attempting to convey a significant philosophical point or an intricate allegory, but even after considerable reflection, the deeper meaning eludes me, leaving me somewhat confused!
People You Meet On Vacation, Emily Henry: Having thoroughly enjoyed Emily Henry’s 2020 novel, Beach Read, I eagerly picked up this title during a Kindle sale. It’s undeniably fun and amusing in many places, and I particularly relished the witty dialogue and humor exchanged between the main characters. However, I didn’t connect with the characters themselves as deeply as I did in her previous book. My main struggle stemmed from the central premise: the idea that these two individuals, clearly deeply in love, would work so strenuously for twelve years to maintain a “friends-only” relationship. It felt like a constant internal plea to the characters to “Just talk to each other!” Simple communication would have resolved their predicament years ago. While a few years of fumbling around might be believable, an entire decade of avoiding honest conversation stretched my credulity. I find that in books, if I can’t fully embrace the core concept, the rest of the narrative struggles to flow naturally for me. On a lighter note, it was quite entertaining to see a blogger/influencer depicted as a main character; I found myself nodding in understanding at many of the things she discussed!
On Screen: My Latest Watching Adventures
Foundation, Apple+: My husband, Brian, was incredibly enthusiastic about this adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s iconic book series, and while it’s undeniably a visually stunning production with spectacular special effects, the narrative itself can be a bit challenging to follow. Brian notes that it deviates significantly from the source material in several key areas, which has been a point of contention for him. For my part, I’ve found myself quite frustrated by the story’s disjointed structure, frequently jumping around and lacking a continuous, linear flow. Despite these narrative complexities, the underlying story remains compelling, and we are certainly committed to seeing it through to the end.
The Personal History of David Copperfield, Hulu: This is the most recent cinematic rendition of Charles Dickens’ beloved novel, featuring Dev Patel in the titular role of David Copperfield. The film proved to be a somewhat convoluted interpretation, and we noted that the storyline had been altered quite considerably from the original text, particularly concerning David’s age during pivotal events. While there were certainly moments of charm and strong performances, Brian and I both felt that the “colorblind” casting, though laudable in its intent, occasionally made it harder to track characters within the specific historical and geographical context of this particular story. It’s not a criticism of diverse casting in general, but for a story so deeply rooted in a certain setting, it presented an unexpected challenge for our viewing experience.
Football: Chiefs and Chargers: For us, autumn signals the glorious return of football season! In the NFL, our loyalties lie with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers (and of course, for college football, it’s always our beloved Oregon Ducks!). While both professional teams have given us a bit of grief and some nail-biting moments this season, our enthusiasm remains unwavering. The Chargers’ quarterback, Justin Herbert, holds a special place in our hearts as our favorite former Duck, so cheering him on is a given. And for the past couple of years, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching Patrick Mahomes; his dynamic playmaking always makes for exciting television. For me, football and fall are inextricably linked – it evokes a wonderful sense of nostalgia and provides endless entertainment. So, you can almost always find Brian and me settled in, enjoying the games most Sunday and Monday evenings!
That concludes another exciting edition of the Good Things List!
If you’re eager to explore more of my personal recommendations and discoveries, you can delve into all previous Good Things Lists right here. I genuinely value your thoughts and opinions – I’d love to hear if you’ve tried any of these recommendations yourself, or if you have any fantastic “good things” you’d like to share. Please feel free to leave a comment below and join the conversation!
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