October was a lively month filled with simple pleasures and meaningful moments. We reconnected with dear friends, soaked up autumn in the mountains, and escaped for a peaceful beach getaway.
“I can’t remember all the times I tried to tell myself to hold on to these moments as they pass.”
Welcome to “Moments” on JoyFoodSunshine. At the end of each month I share a recap of our family’s favorite memories. Here’s a look back at October 2023.
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Life Lately
October brought a steady rhythm of connection and rest that felt restorative. We enjoyed time with friends, celebrated family milestones, and prioritized time away together.
Friends Visit
The month began with a visit from friends who have been an important part of my life for many years. Diana has been a mentor and a steady presence for 16 years; I began meeting with her before my first child was born and have benefitted from her wisdom, grace, and kindness ever since.
JP, Diana’s son-in-law, serves as a missionary and has a remarkable story of faith and perseverance. Our children adore him, and hearing about his dedication to sharing the Gospel and trusting God through trials was both inspiring and encouraging for our whole family.
Their presence felt like an unexpected gift. Spending time with people who live out their faith with humility and compassion brought healing to my heart. They reminded me that Jesus truly identifies with those who suffer because He suffered too. Seeing them walk faithfully through hardship was a profound encouragement.
We hiked together, talked for hours, and shared ordinary life. Their visit was balm for the soul.
Another Year Older
My birthday was celebrated sweetly by Ritch and the kids. We took a breathtaking hike in the mountains and enjoyed dinner at our favorite Mediterranean spot. They spoiled me — as they always do — and I felt incredibly loved and grateful.
The Beach
This year we intentionally prioritized rest, planning several short trips to get away as a family. In October we traveled to Captiva, Florida, and it was exactly the calm, restorative break we needed.
We rented a house on the beach with a pool and enjoyed long, lazy days together. The kids loved burying Ritch in the sand — he definitely earned “world’s best dad” points. The island is famous for shelling, and we found dozens of gorgeous shells that excited the kids. We also saw dolphins from the shore nearly every day and even got close to them on a few occasions.
I appreciated how quiet and remote the island felt. It was the kind of vacation where people are few and the soundtrack is mostly waves — pure relaxation. Back home, Keilah will randomly tear up and say, “I just miss the beach.” I relate completely.
We played from sunrise to sunset and made many memories that will stick with us for a long time.
Halloween
We celebrated Halloween with friends in our new neighborhood, and it felt wonderfully like home. Previous neighborhoods were hectic on Halloween night, but this year was low-key and lovely.
Zach was adorably frightened by a friend’s dinosaur costume and still talks about “Elijah dinosaur costume” days later. We had three different Spider-Man-style costumes, Keilah chose to be a bunny, Bethany dressed as an angel, and Naomi wore a meticulously crafted costume that Ritch helped build — they talked about the fun for days afterward.
Things I’m Loving
Some things that have stood out for me lately:
- Agolde Stretch Jeans. I’m picky about jeans — they must be soft and stretchy yet polished. After trying many pairs this season, I found the Agolde stretch version and love how comfortable and flattering they are.
- Thanksgiving planning. I’m already planning our Thanksgiving menu and ordered turkeys. My favorite cranberry sauce recipe received a refreshed post (the recipe itself is unchanged) and remains a go-to.
- Sezane fall jacket. I finally found a fall coat I truly love. I have it in camel and appreciate how effortlessly it dresses up or down. It’s comfortable and timeless, and I sized to allow for layering.
Life & Faith
This month brought clarity and healing in matters of the heart. I’ve wrestled with how some people justify hurtful behavior by claiming it’s done “in love.” That reasoning never sat right with me. The Bible gives a clear picture of what love truly is and what it is not: love is not jealous, boastful, proud, or rude, and it does not demand its own way.
We don’t need to accept harmful actions simply because someone claims those actions are loving. God’s Word provides guidance and truth that helps us discern genuine love. My friends’ faithful example lived out in kindness and patience reminded me of these truths and brought unexpected healing.
Snapshots
Our family photos from Brooke Stein are back, and we love them. Brooke has photographed our family for a decade and captures moments beautifully. Here are a few favorites from this session.
Enjoying the beach.
The kids spent hours catching critters on the property where we stayed.
My mini me soaking in the sun and waves.
So grateful for a few perfect sunsets.
These two brothers completely have my heart.
This resonated with me this month.
