This past Tuesday morning may have been the best day of my life. Or at least the best day of the year– I tend to exaggerate. I walked outside of my dorm, expected to be hit with a cool breeze and shiver in my warm winter jacket. Little did I know, that if I checked the weather that morning, I would have seen it was around 60 degrees! The sun was shining bright, students were milling around happily, and spring was finally in session. Coming back from the absolute misery that was last week’s below freezing temperature, this seasonal change was particularly timely. In honor of my best day of the year thus far, I decided to rank my favorite things about spring.
7. Working Outside
I know, no one really likes to do schoolwork. Still, the activity can be made better by doing it in the comfort of the beautiful outdoors. Plus, it’s easier to meet up with friends and get some social time out of it. Out of all possible ways and times to get work done, doing it outside on a beautiful spring day is surely the best.
6. Longer Days
Finally, I don’t feel like the day is completely over at 4 pm! One of the worst things about winter is how dark it is and how once the clock strikes mid-afternoon, I feel like my day is wasted. Days with more sunshine equal more time to get things done in my book.
5. Walks
Personally, I am not one to get in a ton of workouts by myself. My preferred way to get some movement is to go on long walks either with friends or by myself just listening to music and enjoying the world around me. Of course, springtime is the best time of year for this activity because it’s not too hot where I’ll sweat my face off but not too cold that I can’t feel my fingers.
4. Animals Everywhere
Whether it be dogs walking, birds chirping, squirrels roaming, or anything in between, the beginning of spring means all animals are ready to get themselves outdoors. Nothing is better for an animal lover like me who can’t help herself but stop and pet a dog if she walks past one.
3. Flowers, Plants, Trees, and More
Who doesn’t love the beautiful scenery of the Earth blooming? After all the leaves have fallen and the flowers have died from winter’s snow, the plants are back and better than ever. Nothing could be more pretty and make even more of a reason to be outside.
2. Picnics
Probably my all-time favorite spring activity (made even better since it’s Covid safe)! Whether it be sitting outside at a table or laying on the beautiful grass of Forest Park, picnics are an amazing outing for any occasion. A mix of good food, social activity, and the amazing outdoors– I couldn’t ask for anything more.
1. Weather
The weather is essentially the basis for all the preceding rankings, so obviously it’s number 1. Nothing about spring could be possible if it wasn’t for the warm days and the sun shining bright. This is particularly needed now with the cooped-up nature that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought us. Being able to get outside and just relax in socially distanced ways is the best thing I can imagine doing right now. So, thank you spring! You really came when I needed you.