It’s already April 21, but it’s only felt like spring for a few days. Everyone in the Northeast is going around saying what a hard, cold winter it was, and how happy they are that spring has arrived. I feel the same, with one caveat: I know how quickly “happy for spring” can turn into “it’s summer already- where did the time go?” We anticipate something, thinking that the anticipation will make the event extra special, but when it arrives, we soon take it for granted. We get over a cold, and within a day, forget to appreciate clear nasal passages; we buy a new car, and within a few weeks, stop enjoying the new-car smell and feel; we lose a few pounds, and soon decide we want to lose a few more. Our happiness levels out shortly after the change in circumstance.

So, in the spirit of maintaining gratitude and savoring the moment, I’m continuing with my tradition of seasonal bucket lists. I had a lot of fun with the Fall and Holiday lists; now it’s time for the Spring edition!

1. Take walks EVERY DAY unless it’s raining. (This sounds ambitious, but it’s not- I love walks, and Edwin loves the scenery. It’s an activity we can do together that gets fresh air and the calm of nature for both of us, and exercise for me. And it doesn’t cost anything. Win-win-win.)

2. Try some new stroller-friendly trails, as listed on the Hike the Hudson Valley website.

3. Get my bike fixed up, and take it out for a ride on the rail trail.

4. Make plans to take Edwin to local museums and aquariums, including the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum, and Stepping Stones in Norwalk, CT.

5. Figure out how I want to celebrate Mother’s day for myself, and how to honor my wonderful mother and mother-in-law.

6. Get my spring clothing Stitch Fix on! (They are booking up so fast- I scheduled one in March and couldn’t get a date until May! Now I’m requesting monthly fixes so I don’t have to wait this long again; it’s possible to opt out of a month if you want.)

7. Look for outdoor play items for Edwin. I’m thinking about sandboxes and water tables. Any recommendations?

8. Plan something romantic and relaxing for our wedding anniversary at the end of May. We’ve made a tradition of going to the Mohonk Mountain House for brunch every year. It’s a spectacular view and the brunch is incredible- well worth the money. It’s a more significant anniversary this year, though, so I might try to arrange something more for myself and my wonderful husband. We deserve it!

9. Take family pictures at my in-laws’ house when their weeping cherry tree blooms (I incorrectly referred to it as a magnolia in this post last spring).

10. Re-start our family tradition of going to the Millbrook farmer’s market every Saturday, starting Memorial day weekend. (And the Millbrook diner afterward- best pancakes in the Valley!)

Any suggestions to add to my list? I would love to hear what spring activities you’re considering, whatever your locale! Let’s celebrate, savor and enjoy every moment of this much-needed spring!