Chazal tell us to minimize our happiness in the month of Av but increase our happiness in the month(s) of Adar. While the Rambam codifies the Halacha to minimize happiness in Av, he doesn’t mention how are to increase our happiness in Adar. 

     The Chasam Sofer zt”l explains that in Av, there are physical manifestations of our mourning. One cannot conduct weddings, and one cannot build or plant for certain festive purposes. These actions can be codified. However, the increase in happiness we are to experience during Adar has no mandated manifestation. We are supposed to feel a great happiness in our hearts during the month(s) of Adar. Therefore, this call to increase our feelings of joy can not be codified. 

     While Purim is still a bit away, this Shabbos is Rosh Chodesh Adar Aleph, and we can begin to see the light of Purim and simcha coming fast!