No matter how cold it is outdoors, the planting season can always begin. Purchase a seed starting kit, or create a makeshift one from cups, fill with seed starting mix, then push in gardening seeds for flowers or vegetables. In four to eight weeks, the new seedlings will be ready to move outside to pots or the ground. Bonus: cheap homemade plants.
Interior Decorating
Bring spring indoors by adding color and print in small, inexpensive ways. Look to nature for inspiration. A spring flower garden is filled with color, and adding just one or two can really brighten a room. Floral pillows on the sofa, colored placemats on a table, scented candles in the bedroom, a new print in the bath can all make the same old space feel inspired. Bonus: shopping for "new" old fabrics in the linen closet won't cost a thing.
Spring Cooking
Start adding one or two meals a week that reflect the coming change in season. A broiled fish with salad and veggies is a refreshing change from a heavy pot of stew. Consider lemon squares for dessert rather than chocolate cake. And nothing quite says warm weather like a gin and tonic. Lots of change is possible without attending cooking school. Bonus: an effortlessly thinner body
Outside Decorations
Give the front door (or whichever one most used) a new look with a coat of colorful paint, a spring-inspired wreath or new door knocker. Add a large, but lightweight, pot next to the door and fill it with cold-hardy plants. Try a new welcome mat in a colorful pattern. Bonus: a smile on your face after a long day away.
Spring Beauty
Now is a great time to use self-tanner. A hint of color on skin gives a healthy-looking glow. Complement newfound color with whiter teeth, done either professionally or from a drugstore kit. A bit of peach or pink blush and a light colored lip gloss are good seasonal choices. There are some wonderful tinted mascaras that are a low-key way to add color to eyes. Bonus: looking good and feeling great are often two things that lead to romance.
Spring Clothing
It is easy to fall into a fashion rut, wearing the same thing year after year with little regard for its potential to flatter. Try something new, even a pair of jeans in a different shade or cut can be inspiring. Add color, in shoes or a lightweight sweater, to bring the new season in. Bonus: excuse to shop.
Pet Supplies
Don't forget that pets are happy to see spring's arrival too. A new collar and leash might just inspire longer walks for everyone. And now is a good time to get a head start on grooming and making sure that necessary pet meds are on hand. Bonus: more exercise for owners and pets
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