Five Things To Do This November

November is gentle.

There is a calm about November — the post-October frenzy, pre-holiday madness. Where the excitement of early autumn wanes and the pressure to complete every seasonal to-do list fades away. Like with post-deadline relief, there is nothing left to do but enjoy the season until the next one comes around. So we enjoy this time of quiet, of home, of comfort. The calm before the storm that is December, with all of its parties and present hunting,  November is a time of getting together in a quieter way. Dinner parties at home offer more warmth than glitz, more nostalgic foods and beloved desserts than fancy appetizers or elaborate cocktails. Found family gatherings with loved ones. Nights around the bonfire or the fireplace, roasting marshmallows or warming your toes as you read. It is a time of caring, for others but also for yourself, making sure there is a bit more kindness in the world with every passing day. 

And so, this November, we’re focusing on that warmth – time with friends and family, nesting at home, and all we can do to make coziness the central experience.

Here are five things you can do this November to make the most of these final golden autumn weeks. 

PICKLE SOME VEGGIES OR CAN SOME FRUIT

Fall is the time to pickle vegetables that won't last through the winter. And since November 14 is officially National Pickle Day, there's no better time to try canning or pickling your favorite produce at home. First time canning? Here's everything you need to know about preserving and canning food.

MAKE MULLED WINE

Your favorite bottle of wine just got a cold-weather makeover thanks to this irresistible mulled wine recipe. It's begging to be sipped on once there's a nip in the air.

HOST A PIE SWAP

"It's November" is basically the same thing as saying "it's time for pie" (or is that just me?). Whether you're trying to use up all those apples you picked last month, perfect a particular pie recipe before the holidays, or simply looking for an excuse to eat something sweet with friends, a pie swap is a perfect November get together.

GET A PEDICURE

Since your feet are now off beach and sandal duty, go for a gel or dip pedicure. The color will last for much longer.

WEAR BOLDER LIPSTICKS

Personal favorites this year? Merit’s Tiger, Nars’ Fire Down Below and Nars’ AIR MATTE LIP COLOR in Morocco, Glossier Ultralip High Shine in Ember, and Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Deep.