February reflections

I can’t believe how quickly the year is flying by already! February felt like a quieter month, yet somehow it still disappeared in the blink of an eye.

February is known as the month of love, but if I’m honest, I’ve never been one for big, one-day celebrations of romance. It may sound a little cheesy, but I truly believe that love should be celebrated every single day. The real magic in a relationship is in the small, everyday gestures; the kind words, the thoughtful actions, the little moments that show someone cares.

For me, love looks like my husband offering to carry a heavy bag for me without me even asking. It’s when he calls in the middle of the day just to see how I’m doing. It’s bringing home my favourite treat for no reason, or surprising me with a bunch of flowers. It’s walking the dog when I’m busy, hugging me while I’m cooking, making me laugh on a tough day, or simply listening when I need to talk. Those small moments are why I love him so much, because he does them without being asked. That, to me, is true love at any time of year.

What February really means to me, though, is something else entirely: the first quiet signs that spring is on its way. After a long winter of frozen ground, you suddenly notice the first flowers pushing their way up through the earth. You step outside on a crisp morning and feel the sun gently warming your face. Shops begin filling with fresh daffodils and tulips, and the mornings slowly start getting lighter.

Recently I’ve been noticing that wonderful smell of fresh earth when I step out in the mornings. The birds are starting to sing again. Even though February was wet and grey, I actually enjoyed those rainy days as they were the perfect time to finish those projects I had waiting for me. And while the kids were at school, Louis was the best company as he patiently waited for me to finish.

A thank you from me

As I’ve started writing my second book of life stories, I want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to everyone who has bought my first book. It truly means the world to me. Writing isn’t just a hobby for me, it’s my livelihood, so every single order makes a difference.

If you haven’t bought a copy yet, it’s still available and it makes a lovely gift for Mum (especially with Mother’s Day coming up!). I’m also very happy to write a personal message inside the book to make it even more special. You can buy it here: Be Free.

One thing I’m still deciding on is the title for my second book. I’d love your ideas! These books exist because of all of you who support me, read my stories, and follow along on this journey. So, if a title pops into your mind, please do share it with me.

February highlights

We had a wonderful 7 Days of Valentine Challenge, where I created a 7-course meal over 7 days. Everyone in my monthly subscription was able to watch step-by-step videos of how I prepared each recipe.

If you’d like access to those recipes and videos, you can join my community here: https://www.nellyghaffar.com/pricing-plans/list

It’s currently £5 per month for the first 300 subscribers, so if you’ve been thinking about joining, now is the perfect time.

A Valentine’s day… in A&E!

And if you’re wondering how I spent Valentine’s Day this year… well, I was in hospital with my younger son! Don’t worry as everything is fine now. But that’s life with mischievous boys. Somehow you always end up in A&E at least once!

Half-term family time

The kids had half term during February, so I tried to step back from work a little and spend more time with them. We took Louis to the beach and the forest and enjoyed some very special family moments.

Lately I’ve been noticing how much my eldest son is growing up. It feels like only yesterday he was a little boy who always wanted to hold my hand. Now he’s becoming a young gentleman. Watching him learn to make his own decisions and navigate his own life is one of the most incredible feelings. I’m so proud of him.

And you know what? I’m proud of all of us parents. Whoever is reading this, give yourself a little pat on the back. Parenting is not easy. We all make mistakes. But if you’re trying your best and loving your child with all your heart, then you’re already doing an amazing job. So, here’s a big shout-out to parents everywhere.

A sweet local event

To round off the month, I had the pleasure of visiting a local blueberry farm, Brother’s Farm in Ferndown, where I was invited to judge a blueberry baking competition. It was such a lovely experience tasting all the delicious blueberry creations.

Even better, the baked goods were raffled off to raise money for the local charity Diverse Abilities, which supports children and adults with disabilities. I absolutely love events like this when we can support local farms and local charities at the same time.

And that was my February…

That’s a little glimpse into my February. I’d love to know how yours was so please share in the comments.

PS: “February teaches us that light slowly returns. Roll on March, the whisperer of spring and new beginnings.”

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