October has always been my favorite month. Perhaps it’s because my birthday is in October, but some of the best things in my life happened in October as well, so October always has a positive vibe for me.

This October was particularly busy, with 2 birthdays (H’s birthday is also in October!), 2 weddings, 2 trips, and many things in between. There was always something to do, sometimes I had to stop to remind myself to breathe. My to-do list appeared to stay long, no matter how many tasks I’d ticked off. I really can’t wait to wind down a little bit in November, have lots of cozy night-in with good books, candles, and tea (or mulled wine).

That being said, this October was lovely, and even though I felt I didn’t have time to snap lots of pictures, I have some traces of October in my phone gallery.

The bathroom window of the place we were staying in Burford, looking out over the garden. We went to the Cotswolds for my birthday, and my favorite place was definitely the tranquil Lower Slaughter, while Bibury became my least favorite due to the crowd in overhyped Arlington Row and the noisy tourists.

Along with many happy things, there were also a few moments that got me down to my knee and cried in desperation. I remember taking a walk to this nearby park after a particularly stressful day, and hearing all the ducks and birds were really soothing.

These days are about the gray sky, many cups of tea and coffee, and yellow leaves.

More yellow leaves.

The chess miniature at the venue of wedding #1. The place was gorgeous, but this was the only photo of the surroundings I managed to get, as I was too busy being cold.

At wedding #2. Still cold, but this time I was determined to get at least some photos. I didn’t want to come home empty-handed (photo-wise) like the last time.

I snapped this photo when the bridal party was busy being directed by the photographer. It was such a gorgeous day for a wedding.

The number of polaroid photos we took in this month is record-breaking. I usually use it sparingly, but there were many special occasions, I ended up buying 4 film rolls (we didn’t use it all, but better be prepared than sorry). And also, can we take a moment to appreciate the birthday cards H and I gave each other? H gave me a sweet card with 2 cute puppies with ‘A Birthday Hello’ written on it, while I gave him a card with mammoths on it, with the words ‘Big, hairy, and ancient. We celebrate a magnificent beast today’. It’s safe to say we loved our cards, and that we know each other well.

If there’s one thing I learned about myself this month, it’s I’m THAT person who cries at weddings. Bride entrance, vows, speeches, first dances, you name it. I have to work on this.

October, thank you for always being great.

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” – L. M. Montgomery