by Tracey Schabel

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 19, 2009

The first warm rush of a breeze, birds chirping, sunshine peeking out from the clouds, snow melting, and grass reemerging. These are all images of the approaching season- Spring! Welcome Spring with open arms and indulge in the freshness of the season in both home and health.

1. Fresh Air. Spring clean those windows until they glisten like the jewels of the house that they are. Then open them wide and let the gentle breeze blow through the home. Take a deep breath and enjoy the clean smell!

2. Decorate for the Season. Pull in some bright colors with throw pillows, artwork, and other accessories. Put away the heavy throws and collections- less is more this spring. Use texture and color to add depth to your decor. Simplify and have fun with the accessories. Try some pastel colors or brights in place of the winter tones.

3. Lovely linens. Dress your bedroom with lightweight linens and put away the extra blankets. Bright throw pillows and perhaps a new duvet will freshen up the space. Enjoy the extra hour or two of sunshine by getting a good night's sleep on softer than soft linens.

4. Clean the Closets. Pack away the snow pants and mittens. Fold up the scarves and hats- it's time for raincoats and bike helmets! Rearrange your clothing also. Sweaters, wools, and heavy items can go to the back to make room for spring and summer apparel. Now is a great time to sort through your jewelry and cosmetics also. It's nail polish and sandal season, after all!

5. Flower Power. Plant some hardy annuals by your front door for instant curb appeal. Nothing says spring like a bunch of tulips or primroses on your table. Nestle in a bird's nest or some butterflies in your houseplants to give them a new look after a cold winter.

6. Garden Clean Up. Walk through your yard and pick up any remains of dead leaves and debris so the new sprouts can see daylight. When pruning a bush, save some of the funky shaped branches (pussy willows or redtwig dogwood is super), and bring them inside. Put them in a vase and use as a centerpiece. You can hang Easter ornaments and birds throughout the branches.

7. Garage Clutter. Pull everything out of the garage and give it a good sweeping out. With everything out, grab the bike that has been dormant for so long and go for a spin! Upon returning, the garage can be revitalized. Put away the winter items and bring the summer fun things forward. Give your cars some much needed TLC and remove the winter junk.

8. Picnic and Play. Now that some of the Spring work is done, take a day and enjoy the sun! Visit a zoo where the animals are waking after a long winter's nap, visit a farm and snuggle the new baby animals, or go on a picnic in your favorite park. Enjoy a stroll through the neighborhood- just get outside and breath in the Spring goodness!

9. Grill out. Grab the barbeque and throw on the season's first burgers. Invite the neighbors and turn it into a block party! Play up the fun of a barbeque with music, lawn furniture, and great snacks. Who cares if it's in your driveway because there is snow everywhere. It's Spring, after all!

10. Listen. Listen to the sounds of Spring that are all around you. Grab a sunny spot to sit and absorb them. The birds chirping, ice cracking, wind rustling through the branches- close your eyes, and you can hear them now!

Spring is the season for freshness and energy. Let the sunshine warm your soul and invigorate you! Whether work or play, embrace the warm breezes and extra daylight that Spring offers. Get outside and enjoy yourself!

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