welcome november

I'm in need of simplifying. In a big way.
I've been thinking about this, and I've finally found the inspiration that I think I've been looking for. Before all the excitement of Christmas comes, the making, the gifting, the baking, the celebrating, I want to slow things down and try my best to simply our life, our home, our days.
Lately, the clutter, and messes, and piles of laundry/paper/dishes have been taking over. I've been finding it hard to get meals on the table in a peaceful manner (why do the kids always fight when I am up to my arms in making dinner?) I feel that we have way too many (junky) toys lying around- a cull is in order. When my home and day to day life is messy, I just feel a sense of chaos.
For the month of November, I am going to work on simplifying our home, and life more importantly. A purge of all the extra clothes and toys, and a focus on what I need to do to make our days run a little more smoothly. Less stuff and clutter, more outdoor time and walks, more organizing of our meals. I like the idea of a clean slate before we usher in all the excess of the holidays (because even if I strive for a less is more approach to the holidays, there is still always so much extra).
Happy to have a fresh month in front of me, where I can start our new.
xox

Some pictures from our walk today. Noah took his little point and shoot along, I'll post his pictures next time.