A brand new lease on Spring

With winter becoming a slow, distant, shivery memory, I’m ready to tackle some of my old obsessions and hobbies that have been (sadly) neglected for a while, like gardening and design (above).

What hobbies will I re- indulge in this Spring?

Decorating: Making things work together in a space based on the needs of the user of the room is a challenging, fun puzzle. For just a few dollars and some creativity, I recently changed a stark, cold, basement bathroom into a space that’s vibrant, green and so much fun, even the teen boys claimed that taking a shower was more exciting.

This Spring, I’ll  change out the front door, and I’ll make it snazzy. I might even spring for shutters.

Flowers: My perfectionist tendencies make me so afraid to try new things for fear they won’t turn out (or live, like the stevia plant or the Venus flytrap). Living in Colorado makes this a real challenge (I’m used to Zone 8-9 gardening), so I’m looking forward to seeing what I can make flourish in this yard.

This Spring, I’ll put in some of the hardscaping I’ve considered to add curb appeal to the front yard. From there, I’m still on my search for amazing, blooming azalea-type plants that flourish in Colorado’s short summers (Zone 5).

Sewing: What I love about sewing is that it brings me closer to my mom and my Dad’s mom (both loved to sew). I had many amazing memories sewing at my grandmother’s home, making stuffed animals, and I remember how proud I was when I made my first sewing project for my mom. Now, I love to sew curtains, bedding sets–I’ve even upholstered furniture. I love what fabric can do to transform a room.

This Spring, I’ll sew something fantastic for the kitchen window. It’s been without a window topper for years.

Architecture/Design: I would love to design houses and landscapes, since those are what surround people in their private, happy, safe spaces. I even design furniture  my husband builds, including bookcases, an armoire, and my last bed. My favorite styles? A bit of everything, though my heart is in the Greek revival, Hepplewhite and Chippendale (the stylings, not the dancers).  I also love Craftsman/Arts and Crafts.

This Spring, I’ll design a shed for the backyard. We so need the storage, and I’m picky. I know what I want built, and it’ll be lovely and under budget.

Volunteering: I love making a difference in my community! Even a crummy day  melts away when I can put myself in a place to make others happy. I have always been a team player who’s ready to tackle the world, to undo injustices, and to make the world a sillier, happier space, so when I’m taking action, it’s a real pleasure.

This Spring, I’ll: make even more of an effort to be present in my community. Even small acts, like saying hello to someone you see on the street, is a small step.

 Now that we’re out of those winter blues and into Spring, what are some ways you’re reinvigorating yourself? Share below!

 

Now, it’s actually healthy to wash your hair every day. AVEENO® PURE RENEWAL lets you renew your hair to its naturally balanced state daily. Unlike ordinary shampoos, these sulphate-free formulas have Balancing Seaweed Extract; bringing hair back to its naturally healthy, most balanced state with each wash, for beautifully healthy-looking hair.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Aveeno via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Aveeno.