It's time to toss out those winter coats and reach for your jean jackets and bomber jackets. It's spring time - one of the brightest times of the year. They say that April showers bring May flowers, but it seems that Manhattan is a little ahead of its game. The sun has been shining a bit brighter and the weather has been amazing to say the least and I think it's important that enjoying nice weather doesn't have to come with a cost.
Spring in the city is beautiful. Everyone is out in the park with their sunglasses half on, people are jamming out to the latest hits, and each individual is doing their best not to spend too much money on brunch. Although brunch is amazing, this weekend, I was able to save a few bucks by making eggs and toast at home with my favorite people. I had my own homemade cup of coffee as I watched the sun shine through my window and all under $8 too. With this in mind, I collected a few ideas for spring that are well under an expensive budget.
1. Picnic in the park
Grab cheese, crackers, and a few meat slices - don't forget about the fresh fruits, and veggies that are less than $10 at Trader Joe's!
2. A run along the river
Grab your running shoes and become one with nature. A run, a stroll, or a slow-paced walk - it doesn't matter the pace, as long as you're outside. Mother nature knows how to give gifts and spring is definitely one of them!
3. Make a delicious smoothie
The fresh strawberries and blueberries from the farmer's market on union square seem like the perfect combination for a delicious smoothie.
4. Invite your pals for a homemade brunch
Trader Joe's has delicious hash browns that only require hungry guests and a few minutes on the stovetop. Don't forget about the organic syrup and delicious honey to drizzle over those fluffy pancakes as well! (and remember those fruits you bought from the farmer's market? well they would also look perfect on this bed of pancakes as well)
5. An inexpensive book-nook getaway
Strand bookstore has $1 books outside where you can read and enjoy. In fact, the bookstore itself is beautiful as well. What a perfect getaway that costs much less than a plane ticket. Even Belle from Beauty and the Beast appears to think so too.
6. Watch all the Oscar winning movies once or even 12 times
Now, everyone quit focusing on the meme's and go watch these inspiring movies! Renting a movie has never been so easy (and inexpensive)
7. Leave your windows open
Nothing says hello spring like floral prints, radiant rays, and homemade ice coffee that costs less than $9
10. Check out the outdoor flowers and the succulents
Whether you're walking to class or to your internship or even to the local convenient store to run errands, take a few seconds to appreciate the colors around you. The flowers are now in bloom and they all seem to be cheering you on not only today, but everyday.
Personally, it is so weird to be able to go out without my huge scarves and thick jackets, but it's true, the toughest journeys reap the best gifts. To everyone out there who was waiting for the cold to disappear, enjoy this weather; spring is truly a season to thrive in.
