Spring may not be my absolute favorite season, but after fall, it comes to a close second, followed by summer, and then winter in last. For out-of-towners or people from a different state, 50 degrees may seem pretty cold, but here in Michigan, that’s beautiful weather. A temperature that is much appreciated, especially after a long winter of temperatures in the teens and single digits. I am so glad to have experienced some lovely weather this past weekend, even if it is only a tease of the spring season. I have my fingers crossed that this warm weather is the end of the snow for the early part of the year.

Here is a list of things that make Spring such a great season.

1. The warmth of the sunshine during a midday stroll.
2. Gentle breezes that blow, despite the warm sunshine.
3. Reading a book while sitting on a front porch swing (or under a tree in the backyard)
4. First flowers poking through the snow look tiny and frail, but they will grow to be beautifully colored and fresh smelling.
5. EVERYTHING starts turning green again!
6. The way the air smells outside (indescribable with any words other than fresh and clean)
7. Birds chirping, near and far -- a sign of true change, when they start arriving back from their migration.
8. It symbolizes a new start - all plants turn a more vibrant green once more, and the outdoors just seems more welcoming.
9. More people are out taking walks.
10. Many of these people have friendly dogs that want you to pet them.
11. Dogs are precious any time of year, but during the months where people start walking them more often, they somehow look a thousand times cuter.
12. Wearing T-shirts and capris (or shorts for the ambitious).
13. Spring cleaning! Whether it’s your Spotify playlists or your closet, you will feel better when your life is more organized. It’s also such an awesome feeling to donate things you don't use!
14. One season closer to beach trips!
15. Looking forward to the sun and the warm sand on your feet.
16. You can wear dresses without tights or leggings and not freeze!
17. Wearing boots every day is not mandatory to survive, because the blizzards are gone.
18. Except DQ’s Blizzards, because I think most people will agree that ice cream shops opening back up is a reason to celebrate!
19. Walking everywhere becomes fun, not a chore.
20. Opportunities for bright scenery to photograph!
21. Drinking things other than hot beverages to keep you warm (aka iced tea or lemonade--or both! Arnold Palmer, anyone?--instead of hot chocolate or coffee).
22. The ability to open the windows during the day and let fresh air into rooms in your home.
23. NO MORE SNOW! Or at least the temperatures start causing most of it to melt.
24. Pokemon Go! Walking to hatch eggs is not as dangerous to your skin, killing your soul, making your hands numb, or freezing your face off.
25. Bike rides!
26. Iced or frozen coffee is much more enjoyable when the temperature is more than 10 degrees.
27. Wearing sweaters and jeans and being just warm enough in the slight spring breezes.
28. Spring Break! No matter where you go, it’s a break from school! (and possibly work if you have the paid time off)
29. For seniors (in college, or in high school), midterms and Spring Break mean one step closer to graduation! A new chapter in our lives, but obstacles and roadblocks like projects and papers, as well as weekly readings, assignments, our work schedules, and the desire for sleep end up taking a toll on our social lives until then.