My birthday falls on Imbolc (IM-bulk), and I’ve felt connected to the magic of this turn in the Great Wheel for as long as I can remember.

It’s a time when early signs of spring emerge. A crocus here, a green shoot of a daffodil there. I’ve always felt this was a special time, not because of my birthday, but because of the juxtaposition of tiny spring buds against harsh rains and snows. Early spring blooms seem so tender, but they are remarkably resilient, as they can survive freezing temperatures and snow.