1. Flip-Flops

Flip-flops are my favorite type of footwear, so one of the most exciting things about spring is breaking out my cache of them. I have flip-flops in lots of colors, so I have to go through them all and make sure I have the options I need to match all my spring and summer clothes. If I need more I just head to Old Navy or Target, where I can usually stock up for just a couple of dollars per pair. Good-bye socks and hello painted toenails!

2. Capris

After a long winter being stuck in leggings and jeans, it’s nice to pull out my capris and plan for warmer days ahead. Capris are so comfortable and easy to match with tank tops, t-shirts and even a more formal blazer or jacket, so they’re the perfect spring wardrobe essential. For work, pull out your linen capris and you’re all set with a fashionable look that is perfect for mild temperatures.

3. Flowers

I love when the flowers start to come up and the air is filled with their sweet fragrance. You know summer is almost here when the daffodils, tulips and crocuses poke their heads out of the ground and make an appearance. It’s always wonderful to head outside and sit on the porch while reading a book because the view is great and the scent is even more wonderful.

4. Winter Sales

I love nothing more than putting away my winter clothes and pulling out my spring ones, but this is also the perfect time of year to shop the winter sales and buy some new stuff to add to the collection for next winter. That includes coats, gloves, hats, sweaters, pants and boots. I buy items for my kids for next year at a small fraction of the original price and I like to buy myself a few things too, even though I don’t really need them.

5. Asparagus

Early to mid spring (at least where I live) is the best time to find asparagus. It’s sweet, thin and tender as opposed to the thick, chewy stalks that sometimes show up on store shelves in the winter. Asparagus just screams spring, so when I start to see it fresh at the farmers market, I know it’s on the way. Sauté a bit of asparagus for a yummy side dish or add it to a frittata or stir-fry recipe. Not only does it taste heavenly, but it’s also nutritious.

6. Bike Rides

You get an occasional winter day where it’s nice enough to go for a bike ride, but the majority of the time I just come home with windburn and cold ears. Once spring arrives, we can tune up the bikes and start heading out for long rides on the weekends or after school.

7. Spring Break

Whether you plan to hit the beach or just hang at home with your kids, Spring Break is the perfect breather after all the long weeks since the holidays. I love Spring Break and I start looking forward to it after New Year’s comes and goes. It’s a great way to spend some time outdoors enjoying leisure activities. What are your plans?

What’s your favorite thing about spring? Do you look forward to it all year long?