Fi Phillips

Okay, this is as much as I can raise to such a celebration at the moment as it's a tad too early to crack open the bubbly but I wanted to join in with the fun. Although the Chinese New Year is officially tomorrow, 31st January, apparently the festival begins today so 'Happy new year'. This is the year of the horse. My daughter comes under this Chinese Zodiac sign and it seems a good match for her. "...energetic, bright and intelligent." "...cheerful, popular, talented and enjoy entertaining. They are associated with success and cannot stand failure." That last part is certainly true but we've found ways to cajole her out of a sulk (usually incorporating the term 'blinky trout-face' - you have to be there to appreciate the relevance). If you're interested in the Chinese Zodiac, the rest of my family incorporates a snake (that's me), a rat and a monkey. Apparently a horse year will bring "health and prosperity" and...

Image via Wikipedia Another celebration. Yesterday it was Imbolc and today is the Chinese New Year. Apparently a rabbit year is a peaceful one. I'll be cooking a Chinese noodle stir fry for the family tonight. How will you be celebrating the day?

Image via Wikipedia Today is Imbolc, Pagan festival of early spring. The Christian church celebrates Candlemas at this time of year and I'm sure you won't have failed to notice that tomorrow is the Chinese New Year. This is when the first life begins to appear after the winter chill. For me, January is always attached to the year before. I spend the month getting back into the normal routine, surviving financially (don't we all?), either huddled in the house or wrapped up in winter layers if I step outside. February seems like a better time to start planning for and thinking of the months ahead. Already I can see buds on the bushes in the garden, new beginnings pushing through, and the mornings are lighter. I find myself looking forward to longer days and warm nights. May Imbolc bring you joy and optimism for the future.