With temperatures feeling more like April than March here in New England, the itch to get out in our gardens and yards is stronger than ever. While it's still a tad too early for planting, there's plenty we can do to prep our outdoor spaces for the blooming season ahead as well as some things we can do inside to help welcome the spring!  Let's dive into some early garden prep tips and indoor spring projects to make the most of this delightful weather!

​Craving the outdoors? Early Garden Prep ideas:

• Clear Away Winter Debris: Rake up any leftover leaves, clear out dead plants, and tidy up garden beds. This not only improves the appearance of your garden but also helps prevent pests and diseases.
• Plan Your Garden Layout: Take advantage of the warm days to plan your garden beds. Sketch out where you want to plant flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Consider companion planting for healthier crops.
• Soil Preparation: When the ground is soft enough, it's a great time to work on your soil. Add compost or aged manure to enrich the soil and improve drainage. Turn the soil to aerate and mix in the amendments.
• Start Seeds Indoors: For those eager to get growing, start seeds indoors for vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. Use seed trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix, and place them in a sunny spot indoors or under grow lights.
• Check and Clean Tools: Before the busy gardening season kicks in, take stock of your tools. Sharpen blades, oil wooden handles, and replace any worn-out equipment. A little maintenance now saves time later.

Still too cold to venture out? Spring Refresh Inside:

• Declutter and Organize: Channel the fresh energy of spring by decluttering closets, drawers, and cabinets. Donate items you no longer need and organize the rest for a tidy home.
• Deep Clean Rooms: Dive into a deep cleaning spree! Dust corners, vacuum under furniture, scrub baseboards, and wash windows for a sparkling fresh home.
• Bring in Greenery:  While our gardens are getting ready outside, bring a touch of spring indoors with houseplants and fresh flowers. They not only add a pop of color but also improve air quality.
• Refresh Decor: Swap out heavy winter decor for lighter, brighter options. Add throw pillows in pastel hues, switch out dark curtains for sheer ones, and bring in spring-themed art or accessories.
• Tried and True: Even with the days getting longer, there's nothing quite like cozying up with a good book or indulging in a movie marathon! Why not host a game night with friends or experiment with some new recipes
  

Whether inside or out, embrace the spirit of this early spring! From blooming gardens to fresh home decor, let the season inspire you to welcome new beginnings with open arms.

We're savoring an early taste of spring this year, feeling the excitement build for the full bloom of the season. As we eagerly embrace this sneak peek of warmer days and blooming flowers, we also gear up for the annual tradition of "springing forward" for Daylight Saving Time. This weekend marks the shift in our clocks, as we set them one hour ahead. While this adjustment may seem minor, its effects can ripple through our daily routines.

The Transition: Embracing the Extra Light
Moving our clocks forward gifts us with an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. This simple act can have profound effects on our mood and energy levels. The extended daylight hours offer a sense of rejuvenation and a renewed appreciation for the changing seasons, signaling that warmer weather and blooming flowers are just around the corner.

The Benefits of Springing Forward and Coping with the Change: Tips for a Smooth Transition
Adjusting to the time change need not be daunting. Here are some tips to help you ease into the transition and make the most of the additional daylight:

• Gradual Adjustments: Begin shifting your bedtime and waking time by 15 minutes each day leading up to the time change. This gradual adjustment can help your body acclimate more smoothly.
• Get Outside: Embrace the longer evenings by spending time outdoors. Whether it's a leisurely walk in the neighborhood, gardening in the backyard, or dining al fresco, soaking up the natural light can boost your mood and energy. Exposure to natural light has been linked to improved mood, reduced stress levels, and better sleep quality.
• Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom promotes quality sleep by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains to block out any lingering daylight in the evenings. A silver lining? With more daylight in the evenings, there is a decreased reliance on artificial lighting and heating, potentially leading to energy savings.
• Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, especially during the daylight hours. Exercise can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improve overall well-being. Use the longer evenings as an opportunity to be more active and enjoy the outdoors.
• Mindful Relaxation: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga into your evening routine. This can help signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for restful sleep.
  
  

As we set our clocks forward this weekend, let's embrace the shift in time as an opportunity to welcome the spring season with open arms. By implementing these tips for a smooth transition, you can make the most of the extra daylight and reap the benefits it brings to your health, productivity, and overall well-being.
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Here's to brighter evenings, warmer days, and the promise of new beginnings as we spring forward into the season ahead.