Spring is officially here, even if it doesn’t feel like it everywhere. Does your home still have that musty, heavy feeling of winter? Here are some easy to do tips to bring spring indoors – even if it isn’t quite showing up outdoors!
1. Make certain that all Holiday decorations have been packed away – you know those light strings are taken down, that poinsettia that’s been sitting around gets set in a less noticeable location (assuming it is still alive).
2. The dark, heavy drapes and area rugs can take a trip to the cleaners and get packed away. If you don’t have anything on the window, consider investing in something light and airy – you can find beautiful lace or sheer curtains at any department store or discount store for fairly cheap. They will block the view from outside, while still letting in that all-important light! Pack away those beautiful velvet throw pillows too – they will be waiting for you in September when you are ready for their warmth again.
3. Throw open the windows on the next sunny day & let your home air out. It only takes 30 minutes of fresh air to make your home feel fresh again, but if it’s especially beautiful, leave them open all day!
4. Do you have any potted plants that have wintered with you? As soon as it’s nice enough during the day, set them out on the porch – just don’t forget to bring them in at sunset until you are past freezing temperatures at night.
5. Speaking of flowers, the daffodils and tulips are starting to bloom around the country. If they aren’t blooming in your yard yet, go down to the nearest florist and pick up some in a pot – they are usually in the $5-$10 range for a medium sized pot. This is a very reasonable way to perk up your dining room, and because they are still attached to the bulb, you can plant them in your yard for next year!
6. Have allergies to live flowers? Make a bouquet of tissue paper flowers to brighten up the room sneeze free. Check out directions at http://taterberrycottage.com/articles/tissue-paper-flowers.html.
7. Splurge in a new tablecloth or napkins and placemats. I picked some up the other day that were clear plastic (great for those with kids!) with a huge, brightly colored flower centered on them. They add a ton of color for $20 or less.
8. Brightly colored throw pillows and lap blankets can add a much-needed punch of color to just about every room. It only takes a couple in a vibrant orange, yellow or pink to put a smile on your face when you walk in.
9. Candles. Brightly colored floral or citrus scented candles will not only look great, but they will help your home smell fresh and spring-like.
10. Clear out some toys. Just getting the mass of toys off of the floor will enhance your mood! Do your kids have a ton of toys that they aren’t even playing with? Pack some of them away for a couple of months & start a toy rotation, or better yet, have your kids decide which ones they will share with those less fortunate. Box them up and take them to Goodwill – quickly, before they change their mind! It gets the clutter out of your house, and helps someone else in the process.
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