LandLove Magazine January/February17 Vorige editie

Each new year heralds a time of hope, anticipation and fresh starts. Nothing beats the excitement of seeing the first snowdrops starting to emerge or the first hellebores blooming in your garden and, on page 24, we’ve got some gorgeous ways to display them in your home. Winter-flowering cherry blossom is another joy to behold right now and we celebrate its beauty on page 30. If you’re thinking of learning a new skill this year, whether it’s turning your hand to a traditional craft or improving your cooking skills, we’ve got some great seasonal ideas for you to try on page 100. And, if you enjoy cooking, then I know you’ll want to try some of our warming winter dishes in this issue (p.56), while those with a sweet tooth will love our scrummy choux pastry recipes on page 62. After all the indulgence of the festive season, there’s no better place to enjoy a bracing walk, a healthy jog or a gentle bike ride, than your local woodlands. Our crafts in this issue have been inspired by a winter walk in the woods (p.86), while on page 92 we go in search of the pointers you need to discover which animals have been scurrying about in the forest near you. From poo to paw prints, the clues are there if you look for them! If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a smallholding, keeping a few chickens in the garden or growing your own produce, then I know you’ll enjoy reading our new series, Your Beginner’s Guide to the Good Life, which starts in this issue (p.81). Month by month we’ll give you all the information and advice you need to start living your dream. Talking of dreams, many of us would love to see the Northern Lights, but did you know that you can witness them right here in the UK? Find out where on page 110. It may be cold outside, but I hope you find lots to inspire you in this issue. Enjoy!