There are plenty of things to look forward to in spring, but really it’s more about the promise of better weather in the future, moving on from the bitter and barren cold of winter.

Connecticut is best known for its slow and pretty descent into fall and the many shades of leaves that come with it. However, spring is a cold and confusing season that leads to either damp moods or sick neighbors. A great time for all.

1. Incessant rain

Yes, yes, April showers and all that, but in Connecticut, at least, spring means plenty of rain and cloudy skies to drench you. While it does give plenty of hydration for the new plants to come into bloom, it also means plenty of opportunities for wet clothes and cancelled plans. Don’t forget the dampness and clammy air when its cold that will turn into humidity when it’s hot. That’s always a joy.

2. Annoying wind

Just in case the rain wasn’t fun enough for you, the wind will make it sideways and make any moment outside just a little harder to bear with the gales running past your head and ruining your frisbee and tennis games.

3. Sniffles and allergies from pollen

It might be the most pervasive sound of spring on the list. It seems like spring comes around and half of the population gets sniffles and colds because of the pollen in the air. I don’t get any of those symptoms, myself, so obviously it’s my natural right to tell people to toughen up in the weather.

4. Ruffling of coats because it's still cold out.

I might as well add the grumbling of people who are still in disbelief that it’s April and they still need to wear any jacket heavier than a light hoodie. Yes, all the cold fronts that were whipped up last month are still hanging around, ready to keep us on our toes when choosing between shorts or last month’s beanie.

5. Deer munching on the flowers that you just planted.

It is really for people that like to start their garden early, but around here, there doesn’t seem to be any flower that is truly “deer-proof” beyond putting poison on the flower itself. You’re really out of luck then, though. Beyond putting up an 8-ft. high fence to keep the majestic little bastards out of your garden, looks like you’ll have to stick to lawn care or bird watching in the spring.