October came with heartbreak and healing. The month started off steady enough, but life quickly became overwhelming when my cat’s health declined. Her kidney failure progressed, and her quality of life began to fade. After speaking with the vet, I made the incredibly hard decision to have her humanely euthanized. Back in September, she’d spent time at the emergency vet — that’s when I learned about her kidney failure. They were able to stabilize her, giving me a few extra weeks with her that I’ll always treasure. Saying goodbye still hurt deeply, but I take comfort in knowing she’s no longer suffering.
Moments of Joy in October
Even with all the sadness October brought, I still found moments of joy. I went to the 13th Floor Haunted House with one of my good friends. For our annual tradition. This year, the experience was divided into three attractions: Legend of the 13th Floor, Twilight of the Damned, and The Bloodshed. Legend of the 13th Floor plunged visitors into the myth of a forbidden 13th floor. Creating an eerie sense of anticipation as we stepped into a building that shouldn’t exist. Twilight of the Damned led us through the cursed Blackthorne Manor. Where vengeful spirits and twisted residents kept us on edge with every turn. But my favorite was definitely The Bloodshed, with its blood-stained corridors and terrifying “Carver” butcher. The intensity, pacing, and immersive set made it both thrilling and unforgettable. I also visited the pumpkin patch with my boyfriend, and
we picked out pumpkins to carve. A small but meaningful moment that helped lift my spirits.
This October wasn’t as eventful as last year, but it reminded me of the importance of slowing down and realigning with my goals. Grieving threw me off balance — I stopped working out, my finances took a hit from vet bills, and I lost focus on my educational plans. But after reflecting, I’ve decided that November will be my reset month. I’ve written new goals, and I’m ready to rebuild at my own pace.
Moving Forward
Grief has a way of shifting everything — your routines, your energy, even your sense of time. But as I step into November, I’m focusing on gentle progress instead of perfection. I don’t need to have it all figured out right now; I just need to keep showing up for myself.
Losing my cat reminded me how fragile and precious everyday life is. I want to honor that by being more present, even in the ordinary moments. Moving forward isn’t about rushing past the pain — it’s about carrying what I’ve learned and letting it shape me into someone stronger, softer, and more intentional.
My Goals
As I move into the new month, I’m setting clear, realistic goals to help me rebuild balance and regain momentum:
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Save Money: After a few challenging months financially, I’m focusing on rebuilding my savings and being more mindful with my spending.
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Pay Off Credit Card Debt: I’m creating a plan to pay down my balance and ease some of that financial stress.
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Return to School in the Spring: I’m refocusing on my education plans — something I paused, but never gave up on.
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Improve Physical Health: I want to return to my workout routine, not out of pressure, but to feel stronger, calmer, and more connected to myself again.
Small steps add up, and I’m ready to take them — one day, one decision at a time
October reminded me that healing isn’t linear — it’s messy, emotional, and full of quiet moments that teach you how to keep going. Even when things felt heavy, there were still glimpses of connection, comfort, and small joys that reminded me life keeps moving. Losing my cat broke my heart, but it also opened space for gratitude — for the time I had with her, for the people who showed up for me, and for the strength I didn’t know I had. As I move into November, I’m carrying forward the lessons of patience, presence, and self-compassion. The reset starts now — not with a grand plan, but with the simple intention to keep choosing growth, even on the hard days.
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