opening chapter two – hello february

One of my most vivid memories from this time last year was walking through the open fields near our house one morning in February, when Ali and I were hit by the sudden (and oh so welcomed) distinct smell of spring. After months of darkness – both literally and metaphorically that is – I remember both of us feeling gleeful and getting excited in an instant and my love affair with the English countryside got a whole lot more intense!

Get a room Lydia, I know!

The thing is, up until that point I’d always seen February as a pretty bleak month. Bitter and bare, it goes by in an instant. But as soon as I stepped outside and stopped to take it all in, I’ve come to realise that it’s a month that keeps us on our toes – stuck in limbo between the seasons, never quite sure whether to offer sunshine or snow.

Which is why I’ve grown to look forward to it in recent months and slowly but surely fall in love with the drama it brings.

Whilst I’m livid at 2022 for delaying pancake day until March (the audacity, I know!), alongside the romance that comes hand-in-hand with countryside living, I’m also looking forward to the romance that Valentine’s Day brings (hint hint Ali!). Expect a round up of my favourite Valentine’s essentials coming your way soon and a Millen-Gordon guide to the perfect Valentine’s Day date night at home.

*cue the Pinterest scrolling for romantic tablescape ideas*

Finally, a little birdie (and by birdie, I of course mean Google) told me that today marks day one of the Lunar New Year… and this year belongs to the majestic tiger.

Rumour has it, it’s a year for passion and adventure. To exorcise evils, be brave. To roar and roam free.

Sounds like a pretty wise plan if you ask me ladies and gents.

Welcome to February.

It’s time to roar.

Missed chapter one and want to fill in the gaps? Turn back the pages and catch up here…