
READING | Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone (Outlander book #9) by Diana Gabaldon. I finally started the last book in my favorite book series (remember, I started with book 1 again before book 9 came out), and I will be so sad when it ends.
(also) READING | The Menopause Brain by Dr. Lisa Mosconi. Not the fun read I expected after not opening a book for several weeks, but this one became available at my (digital) library, and so I borrowed it. I quite enjoy non-fiction books, so it’s not the slog for me that you might think it is. Besides, there are some interesting thoughts and scientific nuggets in there!
ENJOYING | the relatively mild November so far. I know, we need the rain, but I had some really nice, sunny morning runs in shorts and t-shirts throughout this month and I loved it.
LOOKING FORWARD TO | the holiday season. I think I am finally ready to start decorating for Christmas this weekend.

RUNNING | the annual “Run to Feed the Hungry” Turkey Trot. I skipped last year, but it’s been an annual tradition for many years. I ran the 10k this morning. It was chilly (43F/8C) and a little damp and foggy, but at least it didn’t rain and it was great to see so many people turn out. The event is the largest Turkey Trot in the country and attracts 30+k people every year and raises money for the Sacramento Food Bank.
ENJOYING | our fireplace again. I was a little chilled when I got back from my run and it was so nice to come back to a warm house and a cozy spot in front of the fireplace.
WATCHING | Friends reruns. You’re probably sick and tired of hearing the same thing again and again. Don’t come to me for any recommendations for shows or movies to watch, because I am NOT up to date, that’s all I can say. Friends is my comfort zone right now, and it makes me laugh (out loud).

EATING | turkey chicken, homemade bread dumplings, and green beans for the holiday.
DRINKING | coffee with a splash of Peppermint Mocha Creamer. What a delight!
THANKFUL FOR | this blogging community and every single one of you. Thanks for stopping by, for reading, engaging, and leaving thoughtful comments. This month has really filled my cup!
I hope you had a lovely week and happy Thanksgiving (to my US friends).
I am doing NaBloPoMo this month. 30 blog posts in 30 days. Come join me. #nablopomo2025 Happy writing!

Elisabeth
November 28, 2025 at 4:02 amHug in a Mug. You have the cutest mugs. And I am SO glad you found Peppermint Mocha Creamer. It makes me happy every single time I take a sip.
Your holiday meal looks AMAZING (as always).
It is so sad to come to the end of a good book and it’s even more distressing to get to the end of a good series. Maybe you can start all over again???? :) This year has been all about new-to-me books, but some seasons of life I really lean into re-reads because they’re so comforting.
Martha
November 28, 2025 at 4:28 amIt sounds like it was a perfect day, and your meal looks delicious!
Nicole MacPherson
November 28, 2025 at 5:12 amSan, you might like a podcast by Caroline Donohue that is “Friends With A Lens.” I think it’s an offshoot of her “Sentimental Garbage” podcast. She goes through and talks about different aspects of Friends. I enjoy her style and I think you might like it!
Ernie
November 28, 2025 at 11:45 amWe have a fireplace, but never a fire. I’ve suggested it to Coach before . . . and I think I might have to be more insistent, but I’d love a fireplace that starts with the flip of a switch. I love that you are enjoying Friends enough to laugh out loud. That’s a great thing. I say watch what works for you.
Jenny
November 28, 2025 at 2:19 pmOoh, I wish it were cold enough here to have a fire! Of course- we don’t have a fireplace so I guess that wouldn’t work.
Your race sounds really fun- and I hope you’re having fun getting out the Christmas decorations!!!
Michelle G.
November 28, 2025 at 4:22 pmThis is all so lovely, San! It sounds like a perfect Thanksgiving, and I’m thankful for you for organizing the Secret SANta exchange and for hosting NaBloPoMo!
Lisa’s Yarns
November 28, 2025 at 6:12 pmWould you be appalled to hear that I have maybe seen 1/4 of the friends episodes. Maybe I will watch them as a retirement project someday.
I am glad you’ve had mild weather. We got snow this week but first it rained so the sidewalks are treacherous. My outdoor running season is over sadly. Once we get ice, I’m done. I fell 3 times 2 winters ago despite wearing yak trax and decided I do not need to temp fate and risk a bone break. But I have a OTF 8 class/month membership so that is how I will get my cardio in. I love those classes so so much.
Tobia | craftaliciousme
November 28, 2025 at 10:35 pmHappy belated Thanksgiving.
The dish looks good. But it always does.
I am envious of your fireplace. I love sitting by the fire. I used to turn on the tv and put a fire on so many times, that I ruined the tv because it brunt that image in. Now I am not “allowed” to do that anymore. I wish apple would bring out a fire screensaver and skip the jellyfish.
J
November 30, 2025 at 11:56 amLOL at Tobia burning the picture of the fireplace into her TV! I had no idea that could happen.
I’m glad you have had great weather, it’s been really good here too, though I am ready for some wind or rain or something to blow away the fog and pollution already.
Stephany
December 6, 2025 at 6:17 amOMG, you are coming to the end of the Outlander series! I remember when you started rereading the books. It’s been a long time! Congrats on being almost finished, but I’m sure you’re like “what now??”
Your fireplace looks so cozy!