March 20th marks the official start of Spring, with the Vernal Equinox signifying the moment when day and night are roughly equal duration around the planet. Longer, lighter days are coming and I am so ready for the clocks to Spring forward. Still, March is a funny in-between time; while the Internet is going Spring mad, there’s still frost on the ground in the mornings and dreich days to contend with. That said, the extra daylight makes a world of difference and those budding daffs are a sure sign that Spring is fighting back. Here are five ways I’m making the most of March.
Heading outside: I love nothing more than a walk in the woods, whatever the season, but there’s something extra special about spotting the first signs of Spring in the woodlands: daffodils are just opening here, while crocuses and snowdrops are going strong. Make sure you wear layers and bring a flask of something warm to drink and a snack to keep you going. If that fails…
Bring spring inside: if it’s miserable like it was at the weekend, bring your own Spring! branches from the garden ready to burst into bloom, bulbs in jars or buds in tiny vintage bottles. I attached mine with wire to my empty swag (after Christmas), inspired by the Welsh House on Instagram. If you’re buying, think about the planet and opt for local – the bunch of blooms Al got me for Valentine’s from my favourite Edinburgh florist Rose and Ammi are (roses aside, which I’m drying) still going strong, especially the hardier hellebore and wax flowers.
Host a Spring Celebration: there’s plenty to celebrate in March, what with International Women’s Day today and Mothering Sunday on the 26th. It’s the perfect excuse to have a Spring tea party or Sunday lunch, with themed, seasonal produce and decorate the house with Spring-like props – eggs, bunnies and lambs are all mandatory as we head towards Easter next month…
Spring Cleaning: just as suddenly the instinct to nest arrives in Autumn, the urge to Spring clean gets me at this time of year. I find cleaning quite therapeutic myself, and a good clear-out at the start of the season can be incredibly cathartic. I had one in the late Autumn, but my shelves and my wardrobe are definitely ready for another! Remember to donate old clothes – I never chuck anything, one man’s trash and all that – and it’s good for one’s thrifting karma. Just don’t undo your hard work by bringing half the charity shop home (she says, innocently…)
Listen to nature: I’ve not lost it completely, I promise. As well as the changing light and new growth, my Spring instincts are always roused by the birds at this time of year. Pay particular attention at dawn and dusk: if you’re lucky enough to be woken by birdsong, take a moment to just lie, listen and breathe. It can do wonders for an over-stimulated mind. I’m no bird watching expert but I’ve also noticed the birds start building their nests here, and they can get increasingly bold as they fight for territory. Why not go sketching or bird watching? Fun with or without kids!
What are you doing to embrace March?