This morning I dropped my daughter off at preschool and took a leisurely walk along the canal path with my dog and toddler (and our friends). The weather was crisp and cold, but the sun was shining, and we truly appreciated the beauty around as we wandered along, chattering and watching the birds.

I have always been drawn to waterways, in that they relax me and cheer me up when I feel unhappy. It seemed only natural that my husband and I bought our first house together in a canal town that has a river running alongside the canal. Plenty of peaceful water for me to walk by when I need to contemplate life, love and the universe!

A Gentle Celebration for Imbolc

Anyway, that morning stroll is a regular feature for me, weather permitting, since the dog needs his daily exercise and my children and I need to be out in the fresh air as much as possible. Today we celebrate the turn of the wheel on the pagan calendar; the festival of Imbolc. Traditionally this is a time to reflect on the long Winter that has passed, give thanks to our spiritual guides for seeing us safely through the dark months, and look forward to longer, lighter and more productive days ahead as Spring makes an appearance. To my pagan friends, I wish you a Blessed Imbolc!

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here.