October gave us some beautiful, warm days this year, making it hard to believe winter is just around the corner. I tried to make the most of them, whether by spending time outdoors, working in the classroom, going to the gym, walking outside, or enjoying a quieter evening at home. As November begins, I’m looking back on a few things that made October a good month.
Teaching and Learning Along the Way
Substitute teaching in K–12 classrooms throughout October has been rewarding and meaningful, with opportunities to support learners. I helped high school students strengthen their English skills and guided younger children in reading and math. Since students learn in different ways and understanding develops over time, effective teaching focuses on building comprehension—not simply finding the right answer. Providing extra time, explaining ideas in different ways, and using practical examples helps students grasp key concepts.
Teaching goes beyond delivering lessons. It requires recognizing individual needs and creating a positive environment where students feel confident asking questions and understand that mistakes are part of learning. The most meaningful moments come when a student moves from uncertainty to understanding—a clear reminder that thoughtful support and encouragement help every learner succeed.
Thanksgiving and the Last Warm Days
Thanksgiving was an enjoyable time with the people around us. The warm weather made it even easier to spend time outdoors before the colder days arrived.
Thanksgiving means appreciating the everyday blessings we sometimes overlook, like our health, the people who care about us, the connections we share with our community, and the beauty of another fall day. Those simple things are worth celebrating.
Hockey Is Back! 🏒
October wouldn’t feel quite the same without the return of NHL hockey. As the weather gets colder, hockey becomes something many of us look forward to each season. Whether we’re watching a nail-biting game, catching up on the latest highlights, or chatting about the team’s performance, it’s a fun tradition that brings people together. Winnipeg brought the excitement of the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic to the city this year. On October 25, the Jets faced the Montréal Canadiens at Princess Auto Stadium, giving local hockey fans another unforgettable moment.
Making Time for Movement and Reading
Staying active remains part of our routine. Some days that means heading to the gym to work on strength and cardiovascular fitness. Another habit I’ve been making more time for is reading. I enjoy having a little time to read without checking my phone or thinking about what I need to do next. The best part is that reading doesn’t have to be productive. I can read to learn something new, get lost in a story, or unwind at the end of the day. Sometimes, that’s enough.
Enjoying the Outdoors Before Winter
One thing I love about October in Winnipeg is the changing scenery. Golden aspens, colourful leaves, and crisp air make this a beautiful time to get outside, even as the warm days start to disappear.
As the seasons shift, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of making time for what brings balance and meaning to everyday life. For me, that includes working with students, staying active, reading, spending time in nature, and enjoying a hockey game with family and friends. With shorter days and winter approaching, I hope to continue making space for these simple pleasures while staying open to new experiences and opportunities. Sometimes, it’s the small things we make time for that make the biggest difference.
What are some things that help you stay balanced and enjoy the changing seasons?
