I’m excited for today because it’s our HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA! I’ve set up a really fun day for us including Halloween crafts, Halloween science experiments, Halloween movie watching, and more.

I wouldn’t say this kind of stuff is my natural strength, so I’m proud of the planning I put into it, and I’ve even already picked up all the supplies. When I say goals like “more intentional,” this is part of it for me. They’re growing up so fast and love holidays so much; I really want to capitalize on the magic.

Since we’re nearing the end of October, I wanted to do a final check in on the goals I set for myself:

More presence and patience? Yes. Sticking to using IG to share and respond instead of scrolling has helped me lessen my compulsion to log in. With less IG, I enjoy blogging more, which can be done in the quiet of my morning, which I love. Then when the kids get up, I’m better at being present with this. It’s a good fit for right now.

More time outside? This certainly is in large part due to the gorgeous fall weather, but yes, we went hiking, I probably walk 3 miles a day outside fairly consistently, and we’ve just been hanging out in the backyard more too. Very happy with this category.

Less phone? Overall, probably yes because of less scrolling, but I’m not super consistent with leaving it in another room. I’ll do that, then find myself needing to look something up or wanting to snap a picture and having to run back and get it.

Read a novel? I’m waitlisted on all my library books, but first in line for one. So until then, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince with the girls it is!

Less alcohol? I believe I’m at 12 days with a beverage out of the 24 days I’ve been tracking. I feel pretty neutral towards this. Honestly, it’s less than I thought- ha! I don’t believe I’ll continue to track this but will stay more mindful about Sunday-Wednesday opting for Spindrift or tea. But there’s a little voice inside of my reminding of the studies showing that glass of red wine can actually be good for health… just saying.

Meditate? Yes I have been and have figured out what works for me- short meditations! At first I felt like I was failing when I was restless during the 12 minute sessions. I searched for 5 minute meditations on Insight Timer, and found my sweet spot. Of course, I’d like to work up to longer, but I believe the short sessions will help me create the habit.

Track groceries? I’m going to stick with this one. It’s been a helpful exercise for me and even though I know spending is most likely to go up as we head into the holidays (hosting people for Halloween for example), it’s keeping me mindful.

Plus, by reporting our spending and in conversation with you, I’m picked up some tips and am implementing some changes. For example, I bought coffee beans at Costco yesterday and am going to set up our pot brewing machine next to our Nespresso so on the days David is home and drinks 17 cups of coffee, we are encouraged to use the pot instead of 17 Nespresso pods (🙈).

I’m also going to be more mindful about adding in more meatless meals. Considering we were vegetarian for over a year, I have plenty of inspiration to draw from. Like this month of plant-based dinners and this week of vegetarian meals.

Random fast fact showdown: