by Peggy Strickland

Created on: January 30, 2010

Spring awakens more than just dormant buds from the deep cold of winter’s imposed icy slumber.  Something deep within us yearns toward nature’s promise of new beginnings and second chances.  Most of us welcome the opportunity to contribute something of our personal essence to the beauty of spring; to brighten the world around us with our own sunny springtime colors.

And whether arising from reasons based on need or ritual, or simply a desire to banish shivering thoughts of a long and chilly winter, likely your family already has established traditions to welcome the arrival of spring. 

Consider however, greeting this new season with activities maybe a bit more novel than the typical spring cleaning and airing out.  Make way for new facets to old customs by implementing ideas honoring spring’s gifts of renewal and rebirth.

One - Renew Family and Social Connections 

Begin a new “spring break” tradition this year by renewing ties with family or friends, particularly if they have spent the season house-bound or cut off from healthy social interaction.

Greet these winter diminished souls bearing gifts of greenery, colorful flowers or blooming plants, or fresh fruits and vegetables.

Free up some time for loved ones to appreciate the advent of spring by arranging to help get their spring tasks out of the way.

Two - Involve your Family in Environmental Projects

Spiff up your neighborhood or town by participating in worthwhile community improvement projects.    

Some examples of community needs for volunteerism might include cleaning up rivers and trails, parks and streets, preparation of recreational fields for children’s baseball or soccer, animal rescue, and tree trimming and planting.

Three - Plan and Plant a Cheerful Garden 

Maybe this one is already on your list of spring activities; or perhaps winter’s depression makes you think the task is beyond you.  But, what better way to welcome spring than by raising your spirits while helping with nature’s rejuvenation? 

Whether for vegetables or flowers; no matter if your plot is a tiny rooftop garden, or a large rural spread; gardening lifts the spirit and strengthens the body, banishing wintertime blues.  Good “clean” dirt beneath your fingernails is therapeutic.

Four - Add to a Drooping Garden

Your existing garden or landscape surely suffers now from frost and cold, likely appearing brown and

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