January is a misplaced month because it falls at the wrong time of year for us to start afresh. For most of us, the new year heralds a much-longed for turning point. It is the moment at which we begin all over again but with a renewed vigour, an unwavering determination and with the knowledge gained from the year before. In an age when convenient living has determined our lifestyles, for most of us, the new year’s resolution will be health-based, whether that is to exercise more or to eat a better diet. But when it comes to making those fundamental changes, January is no friend, indeed in my experience, January is very much a foe.
Read MoreChristmas. Undoubtedly my favourite time of year. From as early as September it starts to occupy my thoughts. It becomes my main focus for the following three months. As the days darkern, my excitement starts to build. I begin introducing aspects of it into my life and home; watching films and reading novels that help to bring the spirit of the season alive for me. But for the last few years I have noticed a change within me. Whilst I still love Christmas and embrace it as much as I can, I’ve realised that I’ve come to dread it in equal measure.
Read MoreFor me, January is the slowest month. It has an honesty and effortlessness to it after the frivolities and chaos of December. Each day is fleeting, holding within it the briefest of moments, which fall untarnished and remain unmarked as the sun fades and time disappears into nothingness. Despite the shorter days, I feel as though I have all the time in the world. There is nothing pressing to do and very little to occupy my mind. It's too early for my seedlings to appear or to start the ritual of spring cleaning the house and it's too late to worry about the things that I didn't achieve last year. The mistakes I had previously made and the worries that I had carried with me were put to bed as I turned over the page of my new calendar.
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