Welcoming Spring with Renewal and Joy
Beth Blake
Contributing Editor
A photo of a Cherry Blossom taken by Amy Jenson Photography, on Center Street during the Spring.
There was a stormy, cold day last spring where it seemed dismal on the inside as well as the outside. I couldn't shake my discouragement. Then, I turned on to Center Street in Logan and saw magic. To my absolute wonder, all the trees along the street were filled with beautiful pink blossoms. I pulled over and got out, taking in deep breaths of the restorative rain-scented air and marveled at the glorious shade of pink.
Spring is a season of rebirth in the world and for many people, it can be a symbol of inner renewal as well. It's a time for getting outside after a long winter. Religious and cultural celebrations surrounding Easter, Lent, Passover, Ramadan, and the Spring Equinox have interwoven common threads of awakening and reflection. There are special moments to be savored while connections blossom like the buds all around us.
There are many ways to embrace the season and all its restorative properties. There is something about experiencing the world coming alive again all around us.
SEASONAL FOODS
Enjoying seasonal foods is one of my favorite ways to celebrate spring. I think of warm blueberry muffins straight out of the oven, tender steamed asparagus, ice cold spring water with lemon, and salads. Have a salad artistry night where you experiment with different additions and designs. Can you create a new family favorite? My all-time favorite salad consists of butter lettuce, chopped up celery, real bacon bits, sunflower seeds, and ranch dressing. Perfection!
NATURE
Of course, one of the best ways to experience the world coming alive again is to be outside in nature! There are many wonderful walking trails and hikes around Cache Valley. One thing the kiddos in our family particularly enjoy is making a nature walk bracelet. Take a piece of wide masking tape and wrap it loosely around the child's wrist so the sticky side is out. As you walk, watch for pretty things to put on the bracelet: dandelion blossoms, leaves, pine needles, etc.
Another fun outdoor activity is a square-foot safari. This can be done in the mountains or in your own backyard. Help each child mark off with sticks or stones an area of a square foot (or 2 or 3, however big you'd like). This is their area to explore. Have them lay down and study their area closely. What do they see? Have them dig deeper and explore what else they find. Provide magnifying glasses and observation notebooks for your budding naturalists!
SPRING CLEANING
The idea of spring cleaning might bring out a few groans and moans, but it can work wonders to lift spirits after a long winter. Here are some ideas to make it more fun! Throw open all the windows you can. Let the scent of fresh air in while you work!
Two words: dance music. I grew up with dance party cleaning sessions and to this day, I can't help but start vacuuming with rockstar flair when I hear Neal Diamond's "Headed for the Future."
Declutter with a purpose. Instead of "getting rid of junk," ask yourself if there are items that have served their purpose for you, and it is time to let them to be passed on to someone else? Create space for new memories that are waiting to be made.
"In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun," says Mary Poppins. Create a classic scavenger hunt with clues such as "find something to dust" or "find five red things to put away."
SPRING PARTY
Another fun tradition at my house is a March party my sister dreamed up called, "Here Comes the Sun," celebrating the return (or the anticipation of the return) of sunny weather after the "long cold lonely winter." The day is all about celebration and inspiration and includes a TED Talk hour, YouTube laugh fest, time to make vision boards, and a dance party in the garage set to happy tunes. It's a wonderful time!
I ended up driving or walking down Center Street many times last spring to see those lacy pink blooms. Each time I did, it lifted my spirits and reminded me of how much beauty there is in the world. I can hardly wait to feel that part of my spirit come alive when I see them again.
