The signs of spring are apparent everywhere. Birds are returning from the south in flocks; an occasional rabbit can be spied scurrying for cover; long- hidden perennials are peeking out of the earth hungering for the sun. Opening the windows to let in the fresh air, our spirit lifts. Spring is imminent, and we joyously welcome her arrival.
There is much to do, inside and out, to prepare our homes and hearts for spring:
- A grand entrance
Hang a colorful wreath on the front door. A simple grapevine entwined with artificial flowers and a pastel plaid ribbon will do the trick. Exchange the winter doormat for a cheerful spring replacement. Bright new cushions on the porch chairs will entice visitors to "set a spell." Hang wind chimes for a musical hello to all who enter your abode.
- Spring into action
Power rake the lawn and clean left over winter debris from the garden and flower borders.
Aerate and spread fresh grass seed on spots that appear winter-worn. Fertilize all plant matter to stimulate growth. Hose down porches, decks, walkways and water the lawn. Put a fresh coat of paint on outdoor furniture. Wash windows inside and out so that they gleam and provide an optimum view. If you don't already have one, purchase a birdbath and set it in bird's eye view of your most comfortable outdoor sitting area. Spend as much time as possible in your newly refreshed outside extension of your home, soaking in the rays of the sun and watching the unfolding display of nature.
- Go out and about
Take in your local home and garden show and glean new ideas to update and improve your home sanctuary. Visit the zoo and observe the new baby animals. Walk to a lake or pond nearby and feed the ducks and their newest offspring.
- Walk in the rain
Buy a bright new umbrella and use it for romantic walks with your significant other in a fresh spring rain. Early morning and dusk are the very best times. The popular refrain, "In spring a young man's fancy turns to love," is also true for the female population.
- Plan a family picnic
Whether you break out the barbecue grill for the first time, or meet with loved ones for a potluck in the park, celebrate spring with a grand picnic. Make it a kite-flying party or bring along Frisbees, baseball and bat, skateboards, jump ropes, and don't forget to take along the family pet. If your picnic coincides with Easter, have an egg hunt.
- Be crafty
Spend an afternoon making a large supply of homemade sidewalk chalk. Help your child paint rocks to resemble lady bugs. Make a paper kite. Paint the birdbath, flower pots or stepping stones with bright colorful designs. Peruse on-line ideas for more spring crafts to enjoy with your children.
- Serve your community
Reaching out to others and performing some community service is invaluable for renewing the spirit.
Visit a nursing home and read or play chess with someone who has a shortage of visitors. Make cupcakes to pass out to the residents during your visit. The activity director might have additional ideas and will welcome your assistance in keeping the residents entertained.
Donate blood. Drop off gently used items or baskets of Easter treats to a homeless shelter.
Volunteer to assist in cleaning up litter along the highways and byways in your neighborhood. Your community parks and recreation director will assign you a specific route which you can adopt for the entire season. This can be a family affair and an excellent way to role model community service to your children.
- Take a hike
Organize a group hiking venture at a nature preserve, along a river path or in the mountains. Nature will unveil her wonders right before your eyes and provide unequaled visual entertainment.
- Have a garage sale
By the time you have cleaned and organized your home, outdoor space and garage for spring, you will have an accumulated resource of unwanted items to sell in a garage or yard sale. Coordinate with the neighbors and make it a block sale. Any remaining items after the event can be donated to worthy charities.
- Get ready for a blooming summer
Purchase a bouquet of spring flowers to liven up the house until your summer roses and perennials are ready to bloom. Cut branches of forsythia or other spring blooms and display in a vase. Plant seeds of annuals in paper cups to start in the house and move the seedlings to the garden when the soil is warm and ready for planting.
These are just ten tips for welcoming spring. As a bonus tip, remember to eat a healthy, nutritious diet, get plenty of sleep and adequate exercise in order to ensure you will be in optimum health to enjoy the excitement and activity associated with the glorious rebirth of nature in the spring season.
Happy Easter, Happy Spring!