When the buds start to appear on the trees, the business of springtime begins. The birds start building their nests, rabbits start to emerge from their winter naps, and the distinctive chirp of robins returns to backyards. This is when you likely get the itch to enjoy the sunshine and warmer temperatures, and you begin to make plans for a fun-filled summer. Here are four things you can do with your family to welcome springtime into your home.
Plant Some Wildflowers
That rough spot in your yard where you can never seem to get the grass to grow is the perfect spot for planting some wildflower seeds. This is a great activity for kids as it is hard to fail. A little ground prep and a bag or can of wildflower seeds is all that is necessary. After a couple of initial waterings, the flowers will just pop up on their own. This is great for youngsters that lose interest in things quickly as they will be surprised later. Many wildflowers look like weeds at first. Give them time, and beautiful blooms will spring forth.
Get the Bicycles and Helmets Out
Pull the bikes out of the garage, pump up the tires, check the brakes, oil the chains, put on those helmets and go for a ride. If you want a really fun ride, check to see if you have Rail Trails in your area. These are places where train tracks used to run but have been converted to smooth riding trails that are quite flat for miles in many sections. The little legs of youngsters can pedal for miles while everyone enjoys checking out the spring blooms.
Have Your First Official Springtime Picnic
You can make this one an annual event for welcoming spring back to where you live. Check the weather for an upcoming warm and sunny day. Since the wind in early spring can be chilly, pick a day when the wind is forecast to be calm. Some companies, such as Klosterman Baking Company, know that there is no need to get fancy. You can have a picnic in your own backyard, or you can travel to a local park. If the park has barbecue grills, bring some charcoal and grill some hot dogs and burgers. An easy-to-fix sandwich for picnics is chipped ham barbecue on Kaiser Rolls. It is just chipped ham and sauce. Kaiser rolls are the best as they hold up well when slathered in barbecue sauce.
Animal Track Casts in Plaster
This is a great activity for the kids, and it is easy to do. All you need is some patience to look for some animal tracks in natural areas around your home and some plaster of Paris, water and a disposable mixing container. Find some tracks of any wildlife. Streams and ponds are great places to find animal footprints as they all need to get a drink. A little mud or dirt on the cast is not a problem as you can rinse it off after it dries and spray paint the cast to keep as a trophy of the hunt. You can engrave the name, date and other details on the back of the casting before the plaster hardens.
Be sure to take the time to enjoy the coming of spring. Do not just let it be a segway into summer. Enjoy the season for itself with your family, both indoors and out. The rainy days can be enjoyed as much as the sunny days of spring if you have a positive outlook and use a little creativity.
