Hello, Spring! 11 Ways to Welcome This Lovely Season

(CREDIT: promanex (Flickr))

Spring is finally here and I am wildly thrilled about it! I'm eager to wish winter a not-so-teary goodbye. The blossoming weather always gives everyone a pep to their step; for my girls, as I'm sure you can relate, it gives them an entirely new set of wings! There's always so much to do outside with the kids, so we are so ready to burst out of our bear caves!

It's go time! Let's leap into the new season, the great weather, and all of the fun that comes along with it. If you're looking for ideas for how to welcome in the spring, then I've got you covered. Here are 11 great ways to envelop it in a big, grand bear hug! Get outside and enjoy it!

1. Fire up the grill: One of my favorite parts about this time of year is being able to cook up some great food outside. There are so many great recipes that you can find out there, too. Portabella mushrooms are at peak shape come spring, and they are an absolute dream to BBQ and enjoy between burger buns. What are your favorite dishes to sizzle up?

2. Get organized: When the weather outside is frightful, our motivation tends to slack, especially in the cleaning and organization department. Who wants to go on a cleaning frenzy when being bundled up on the couch is an option? But now that it's nicer out, it's a great time to organize all parts of your home. It's a wonderful way to feel as fresh and alive as spring itself.

3. Grow some flowers: Now is the best time to plant some blooms. Not only will it be delightful when they sprout and flower, it's a great bonding opportunity for the family. Plus, your children will learn about the natural cycle and relish in nature's gifts.

4. Exercise with the family: How about exercising outside? Now is a prime time to get started, and it's a great, fun thing to do with the family because you can motivate each other to keep doing your best! Bicycling, hiking and walking are my family favorites.

5. Enjoy a picnic: Who doesn't love a good picnic? The fresh grass, cheery sunlight and friendly vibes! You can pack some homemade great food, enjoy the fabulous weather, and be surrounded by family. It's relatively inexpensive, and it's more fun, in my opinion, than eating out.

6. Let your pets enjoy nature: If your pets are like ours, then you know how much they love being outside. Take your dogs out for a walk in a park! They can enjoy the nice, new, fresh weather just as much as you.

7. Do some spring cleaning: Spring means out with the old and in with the new! Purge what you don't want or need and anything that blocks the flow of positive energy in the home. You could hold a garage sale; it promotes community and fun! Another great option is to donate to local charities, especially clean clothes and shoes your children have outgrown.

8. Check out a local sporting event: With the spring season comes baseball, soccer and more. Go rally or even join a local team! Friendly competition really shakes us loose from winter's grasp. It's just fun to get out there and enjoy the game, classic atmosphere, sunshine and longer days with friends and family.

9. Go to the playground: Of course I had to include this! Playgrounds bursting with laughter and children are one of spring's finest trademarks. My kids and I love to give local playgrounds some TLC after winter by cleaning them up and ensuring safety.

10. Sit by the fire: One of my favorite spring activities from when I was younger would be to sit around a fire at night, swapping stories and toasting some marshmallows. Set up a fire pit in the backyard; the family will love it.

11. Run a race: This one goes back to the delight of physical, outdoor fun! I remember being so nervous before running my first 5K in the spring a few years back, but I felt so great and accomplished afterward. Check out some local races in your area and give it a shot!

I'm just so glad that spring is finally here. In what ways are you welcoming in the new season?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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