November is a month for slowing down just a little, noticing the crisp air, and savoring the small comforts of home. Even if the holidays feel a little rushed or skipped, there’s still magic to be found in ordinary moments: a warm mug in your hands, leaves crunching underfoot, or a quiet chat on the porch with someone you love.

As the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to reflect on gratitude, watch the last of the fall colors, and enjoy cozy corners both inside and out.

This month, we’re sharing a peek at my first 2026 Kids Calendar and inviting you to notice the little joys around you every day.

Plus, we’ll highlight ways to honor Veterans Day and sprinkle in some fun activities to make November feel bright and welcoming.

And lastly, honoring Thanksgiving and giving thanks.

Autumn in Lovely Savannah GA

🍂 Pics from Our Porch Friend🌻

Lovely pumpkins and full, abundant mums make Cindy's outdoor space a treasure

So much personality on the porch steps

That gorgeous autumn mum

November reminds us of the quiet beauty in endings — the last golden leaves clinging to branches, the soft glow of early evening, and the familiar scent of autumn kitchens preparing for cooler days.

Take a moment each day to notice a small memory or a simple pleasure, and write it down. These little reflections can become treasured reminders of warmth, family, and the gentle rhythm of the season.

🇺🇸🎖️Honoring Our Veterans🎖️🇺🇸

A simple thank-you, a wave, or a quiet moment of reflection can mean so much. Freedom isn’t free, and today we remember those who make it possible. 🎖️🇺🇸

Remember a Veteran
with Our Free Card

Thank the veterans in your life with our free, downloadable card

Just print, fold and give

🍂 A Little Project I Want to Share

You might remember Molly Jo Daisy from my books — curious, observant, and always finding the wonder in small things. This calendar follows her through the seasons in a series of cheerful hand-painted scenes. Each month includes a gentle prompt or thought to make young thinkers pause and imagine.

Whether or not you’ve read my Molly Jo Daisy books, this calendar stands beautifully on its own.

Molly Jo and her Grandma enjoy their time together on the porch

Each month features one of my whimsical paintings of Molly Jo and her family as they move through the seasons — from snowy mornings to summer picnics. A memory that sparks a story in the hearts of young people.

This might just be my favorite page of the calendar

My calendar makes a cheerful gift for children, grandchildren, or classrooms — or simply to hang in your own kitchen or hallway, where everyone can enjoy it throughout the year.

You can find it in my Mary Sparkle Silver Etsy Shop right here.

🍁🦃 Happy Thanksgiving 🍂

Courtesy of Print on Demand on pixabay

November is a time to slow down, gather with family, and savor the little moments that make life sweet.

Whether it’s sharing a warm meal, swapping stories, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air, Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful for the people and simple joys around us.

This month, take a moment to notice the golden leaves, the cozy blankets, and the laughter that fills your home - it’s all part of the season’s magic.

We are indeed thankful for you and so grateful to have you as our porch friend. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours from our family.

🌿 A Quiet November Thought 🍃

Bundle up in your coziest sweater, tiptoe through crunchy leaves, and see what surprises you find: acorns, bright berries, or dew on a colorful leaf.

Bring a warm mug back to your favorite chair, tuck in a blanket, and imagine the stories the wind might be whispering through the trees. Even chilly days can be full of fun.

💡Spotlight on PCA Products 💡

PCA Products build their screen doors to last and look amazing. That's what we love about them.

🧺 Simple November Porch Tips 🧺

2. Scented Surprise: Light a cinnamon stick or orange peel bundle in a small lantern or fireproof dish. The warm, spicy scent will drift across the porch and make even chilly mornings feel cozy.

3. Nature’s Decor: Fill a basket with pinecones, acorns, and fallen leaves. Add a few small LED lights for an inviting glow—nature’s simple touch feels both seasonal and unexpected.

4. Porch Reading Nook: Keep a small stack of short stories or illustrated books on a bench or table.

5. Hot Drink Station: Even a single thermos of cider, cocoa, or tea with a small stack of disposable cups can feel magical. Visitors can help themselves to warmth on the spot.

6. Hang a small basket or tray by the porch steps with a few extra mittens, scarves, or even hand warmers for anyone who stops by.

💡Spotlight on Vintage Woodworks 💡

Often called spindles, these gorgeous balusters add both strength and eye-catching detail to any handrail.

Create a one-of-a-kind porch with baluster styles that suit your home’s personality, or bring a historic porch back to its original charm with authentic accents. Choose from wood or low-maintenance PVC in a wide range of sizes and designs.

See all the lovely products Vintage Woodworks has for your porch.

☀️ Porch Wisdom 🌿

Our back porch has a nice firepit for cozy evenings

You know, there’s something about a porch that just slows everything down. Maybe it’s the creak of the floorboards or the way the evening air smells a little like leaves and coffee. Sit a while and you start noticing the little things—a squirrel chasing across the yard, the breeze tugging at the wind chimes, the sun making those long, golden streaks across the steps.

It’s funny how a porch can teach you without saying a word. It reminds us to wave when a neighbor walks by, to listen more than we talk, and to take that extra minute before rushing back inside. Nothing fancy, just a quiet spot that says, Hey, don’t forget to enjoy this moment right here.

Dave and I have a mini firepit on our back porch and we look forward to spending some evenings out there together.

Introducing My New Molly Jo Daisy Book

It’s the story of a curious and big-hearted ten-year-old Molly Jo Daisy who sets out on adventures with her younger brother, discovering hidden places, little surprises in nature, and the joy of family along the way.

Told through Molly Jo’s eyes, this story is filled with wonder, laughter, and everyday magic—the kind that reminds us how special simple moments can be.

If you'd like to see more about my book, here you go.

It's a lovely book for kids 8-12 or a really nice read-aloud book for parents and grandparents.

💡Spotlight on The Porch Store 💡

Pictured here are their Double Cathedral Picket Panels and Double Cathedral Picket Stair Panels. Aren’t they striking?

We invite you to check out The Porch Store.

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🐢 Till Next Time...

As November unfolds and the holidays quickly approach, may you find moments to simply pause — relax on your porch, enjoy a good book, listen to the birds, and savor the moment you’re in.

See you on the porch.

Our best always,

Mary and Dave