Spring is finally here, which means it is time for anticipated vacations, dreaded spring-cleaning, and America’s favorite pastime, baseball. For many, this is the best time of the year. I will agree and say that I have welcomed the sun with arms wide open this year! Its time to wear shorts and tank tops and stock up on sunscreen, bug spray, and snack foods for upcoming vacations… dust off that old bookshelf, clean out your pantry. And who isn’t ready for baseball? Whatever you’re looking forward to, or dreading, this spring, here are some fun ways to make spring your favorite season yet.

Happy Family

Vacation season can also be a stressful season. Sometimes, planning the trip, the travel, packing for yourself (and let’s be honest…everyone else, too), arranging activities, and fighting traffic can make the fun, family vacation seem like a daunting task. When you feel your blood pressure rising, take a breath, and look at what is all around you. There is a reason families like to travel and take vacations during spring. The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and people seem genuinely happy. Take in the laughter and excitement of your kids. They’ll only be little for a short while, and in a few years they won’t want to vacation with Mom and Dad anymore. Make your vacation even more relaxing by packing food ahead of time instead of going to dinner every night. Your family will appreciate knowing the menu ahead of time instead of arguing where to eat every night.

After you’ve had that relaxing vacation, strap on your rubber gloves and grab the bleach! “Spring cleaning” is a ritual for most households, and rightly so. After a gloomy, rainy winter, the sun comes out and shows all the dust and clutter that is sitting around in your house. Prepare the week ahead by getting all the necessary household cleaners and wake up ready to go Saturday morning. Get your kids to help you clean out their closets and donate to a local charity. You’re sure to enjoy the quality bonding time and the satisfaction of helping others in need. 

Grab your kids and head to the ballpark. Eat some popcorn and yell “Strike three, you’re out!” Something about being at a baseball field brings back so many good memories. Create those memories with your family or friends when you’re cheering on the Rangers…ok the Astros. This year, when your son asks you to throw a ball with him outside, say yes. And make sure your daughter knows that girls like baseball, too. Somehow, baseball is something that even the girliest girls and toughest boys can agree on, and for most parents that’s more than you can ever ask for. Grab a package of hot dogs and buns and spend the day outside grilling, playing ball, and enjoying each other’s company.

Whatever you do this spring, make sure to hold on to the small moments. Don’t gripe when your kids come in and smell like “outside.” Instead, go out and enjoy the sunshine with them. You’ll never regret the time you spent playing.