Welcome the 1st of January 2026

~ Welcome January 2026 ~

and

~ Happy New Year Wishes to all readers ~

What’s happening in January 2026? Have you anything planned? I have quite a few family members with birthdays this month, so are looking forward to continuing the Christmas, and end of year 2025, get-togethers with some more during the first month of the year 😊

Did you know that this month was named after the Roman god Janus, who fittingly represented new beginnings. January was named for the Roman god Janus, known as the protector of gates and doorways, who symbolize beginnings and endings. Janus is depicted with two faces, one looking into the past, the other with the ability to see into the future. What a fitting symbol for this first day of the year; this month is our door into the new year. The Romans often made promises to Janus and exchanged good wishes, so start the first month of the year right.

Even in astronomy, there is a sense of new beginnings. In the Northern Hemisphere, the days are starting to get longer again, and we look forward to the light’s re-emergence.

Perihelion: Earth Passes Its Closest to the Sun
On January 3, 2026, Earth reaches perihelion, which is the point in the planet’s orbit where it is closest to the Sun. At perihelion, Earth will be 91,403,637 miles from our bright star. 

January’s Moon is called the Wolf Moon. 

The Saxon word for the month was Wulf-monath or “wolf month.” This year, the Full Moon reaches peak illumination on Saturday, January 3, at 5:03 A.M. EST/US. In Europe and the UK the full moon of January 2026 will occur on Saturday, January 3 at 10:03.

The Quadrantid Meteor Shower
The Quadrantid meteors appear in the early January sky, producing up to 25 meteors per hour at their peak. They’ll be at their best on the night of January 4 into January 5. For the best chance at spotting them, venture out between midnight and dawn (if you can stand the cold). 

Coming back down to earth!

January’s birthstone, the garnet, is thought to keep the wearer safe during travel.
January’s birth flowers are the carnation and snowdrop.

January’s Zodiac signs are

Capricorn: December 22–January 19. 
Aquarius: January 20–February 18.

Words and image above taken from article here

If you should be feeling a little chilly why not try this delicious

~ Spiced Parsnip Soup with Coriander and Chilli Pesto ~

please see recipe/more details here

I wish you a lovely January and a wonderful start to the year

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan