Welcome the 1st of November 2026

 As we say goodbye to October it's time to say hello to November.

Yes, the eleventh month of the year is here!

And the dead leaves lie huddled and still,

No longer blown hither and thither;

The last lone aster is gone;

The flowers of the witch-hazel wither …

Robert Frost (1874-1963)

As we welcome November, we say hello to the eleventh month of the year and the last one to have thirty days. There are many facts about this month and I am only sharing a few. There are many others, so please, do feel free to share them in the comments below.

Always starting on the same day of the week as March, and always ending on the same day of the week as August.

November’s traditional birthstone is the topaz, usually a yellow to amber colour. The ancient Greeks believed that topaz could make a wearer invisible. A symbol of honour and strength, topaz was also believed to bring longevity and wisdom.

November’s birth flower is the chrysanthemum. Generally, chrysanthemums represent cheerfulness.

Scorpio and Sagittarius are the astrological signs for November. Birthdays from November 1st through the 21st fall under the Scorpio sign. November 22nd through November 30th birthdays fall under the sign of Sagittarius.

November is also the month where the world commemorates the end of World War One. Ceremonies take place across the globe on November 11th – in the UK, there are normally processions and poppy-laying ceremonies, with a nationwide silence taking place at 11am to commemorate those who gave their lives in action during the two World Wars and later conflicts. On Sunday 8 November, the National Service of Remembrance will be held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall, London.

During November it is also World Diabetes Day, this happens on the 14th November every year all around the world.

~ and now for a delicious recipe suggestion ~

Sausage, Parsnip, Onion and Apple Tray Bake

Try this easy one-step sausage tray bake recipe.

Recipe details are here

~ Wishing you a happy November 2026 ~

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