The Joyful Almanac - March
Some dates are invented. Others exist whether we’re here or not.
The first of January turns up because we agreed it should. Fireworks. Resolutions. Slightly aggressive gym memberships. But March? March doesn’t care about our planners. The sun crosses its invisible line in the sky. Day and night stand level for a brief, beautiful moment. The light shifts. The soil warms. The birds absolutely lose their composure.
The Joyful Almanac - February
The year is stirring, but not yet awake. The ground is softening underfoot; the hedgerows still hold their breath. Snowdrops gather in quiet drifts, crocuses dare a little colour, and the birds begin rehearsing for spring - not singing yet, just clearing their throats.
And still, February often feels like the longest walk.
The Joyful Almanac - January
The year yawns open; the gardens slumber. The apples dream of blossom, the hellebores bide their time, and even the robins sound gentler at the gate. I’m taking my cue from Somerset itself: less rush, more root. This is a month for candle-light lists, friendly soups, and joy that starts at home and ripples out. Tie a ribbon round January; call it hopeful.