by Carol Gioia

Created on: February 26, 2009   Last Updated: March 07, 2009

Signs of spring are everywhere. Birds are returning from their winter sabbatical; an occasional rabbit can be spied scurrying for cover; long-hidden perennials are peeking out from the earth, hungering for the sun. Spring has sprung, and we joyously welcome her arrival.

There is much to do, inside and outside, to ready our homes and hearts for spring:

* Create a warm welcome

Hang a colorful wreath on the front door. Artificial flowers and a pastel plaid ribbon entwined into a simple circle of grapevine will do the trick. Exchange the winter doormat for a cheerful spring replacement. Bright new cushions on the porch chairs will entice visitors to "sit a spell." Hang wind chimes for a musical hello to spring.

* Take action

Power rake the lawn;aerate and spread fresh seed on spots that appear winter-worn. Clean left over winter debris from the garden and borders. Fertilize all plant matter to stimulate growth. Hose down porches, decks, and walkways. Put a fresh coat of paint on outdoor furniture. Wash windows inside and out so that they gleam and sparkle. 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 outdoor 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 new offspring.

* Walk in the rain

Buy a bright new umbrella and use it for romantic walks with your significant other in the gentle spring rains. 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 of the species.

* Plan a picnic

Whether you break out the barbecue grill for the first time, or meet with family and friends for a potluck in the park, celebrate spring with a grand picnic. Make it a kite-flying party and bring along Frisbees, baseball and bat, skateboards and jump ropes. Don't forget to include the family pet. If your picnic coincides with Easter, have an egg hunt. Bring along the camera for candid shots of your loved ones frolicking and having fun.

* Be crafty

Spend an afternoon making a large supply of homemade sidewalk chalk. Help your child paint rocks with pictures of lady bugs, bumble bees, butterflies

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>