The Calm Between Seasons: How November Inspires Simplicity at Home

November always feels like a pause for me—a quiet in-between moment before the rush of the holidays begins. The golden leaves have mostly fallen, the mornings are crisp, and there’s this lovely sense of slowing down that seems to settle over everything. It’s the time of year when I find myself craving simplicity at home.

After the fullness of summer and early fall, I start to pare things back—visually and mentally. Fewer accessories, more breathing room. A favorite candle lit in the evening, a cozy throw draped over a chair. These small gestures make a space feel peaceful and grounded, which is something I think we all need before the bustle of Thanksgiving and the holidays truly begins.

Simplicity as a Reset
There’s something restorative about editing your décor this time of year. I’ll often take a slow walk through the house and see what can be tucked away—lighter summer colors, extra accessories, even some of the greenery that felt right in September but now feels a bit busy. The goal isn’t to strip the house bare, but to make space—to breathe, to reset, and to make room for what’s coming next.

This simple act of clearing and quieting the home helps create a calm backdrop for the festive season ahead. When the time comes to decorate for Thanksgiving or bring in winter greenery, everything feels intentional, not cluttered.

Natural Comforts
As the Bend landscape outside turns muted and still, I love to echo that inside—natural textures, soft lighting, and warm, neutral tones. A linen table runner, woven basket, or a wooden bowl filled with seasonal fruit feels just right for November. These details add warmth and depth without overwhelming the senses.

It’s also the perfect time to refresh your candle scents or switch to cozier lighting—think soft amber bulbs or layered lamps instead of overheads. Those little shifts can transform a room’s mood.

Preparing for What’s Next
This calm between seasons is such a beautiful opportunity to be intentional before the holidays begin. I’ll often use November to make small, satisfying updates—styling the entryway, reorganizing the mudroom, or setting the dining table for that first Thanksgiving meal with family. It’s about savoring the slower rhythm before everything sparkles again.

November has a way of reminding me that beauty doesn’t always mean more. Sometimes it’s the quiet moments—the soft light on a bare countertop, a simple arrangement of dried branches, a favorite chair by the window—that bring the most comfort.

So, as we move through this peaceful pause between seasons, I’m leaning into simplicity, warmth, and gratitude. The holidays will come soon enough—but for now, I’m enjoying the calm.

— Suzanne