Ideas and Projects To Chase Away Those Winter Blues

Chase away those winter blues and use the dreary months of Winter to get a head-start on spring!

Spring WILL arrive, but in the meantime, here are some ideas and projects that are best accomplished in Winter:

UPGRADE YOUR PATIO, DECK OR OUTDOOR SITTING AREA: Plan now to give your outdoor sitting areas an upgrade. Easy upgrades include simply replacing furniture seat cushions, adding string or solar lights and colorful planters. Consider replacing some or all of your outdoor furniture and re-arranging the layout for a whole new look. Perhaps a small bistro table with 2 chairs are needed to enjoy light dining outdoors.

PLAN GARDEN OR CONTAINER PROJECTS: Start a journal on garden projects that you always wanted to do (and still haven’t done). Include a list of needed supplies. This is a good time to formulate your plan and then shop online or in stores to get the supplies you need so that as soon as spring really hits – YOU ARE READY! Retailers already have seeds, bulbs, plants, gardening equipment etc. for sale.

PERUSE SEED AND PLANT CATALOGS:  Even if you don’t order anything, they will give you endless ideas on new plants, shrubs or trees you may want to add to your garden or yard. Write down your favorites and make a plan.

CHECK THE SCHEDULES FOR LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS AND GARDEN SHOWS: Find out when your local farmer’s markets will re-open. Check schedules to find out when plant and garden shows are coming to your area and mark them NOW on your calendar, so you don’t miss them when spring arrives.

SCHEDULE CAR OR BUS TRIPS or GETAWAY WEEKENDS:  Winter is also a good time to schedule trips (including bus trips) to local botanical and other gardens for inspiration or even plan a getaway to the mountains or beach.  Breathe in that wonderful fresh air and get some exercise.

PLAN AN HERB GARDEN: Start learning about herbs – how to grow them at home and use in cooking. Most herbs can be started indoors even before spring has technically arrived. Herbs can also be grown just for their scent or flowers (think soothing lavender).

BIRD & BUTTERFLY LOVERS: Start shopping around for good deals on birdhouses and butterfly houses. Figure out where you want to mount them so you can enjoy the spectacular view.

NATURE WALKS: Start making a list for where you want to stroll on a nature walk. When the first nice day hits, you’ll know exactly the trail you want to take. Research new trails or parks to add to your list.

ROCK GARDEN: If you’ve always wanted to create a rock garden, but never got around to it, here’s an opportunity to learn about rock gardens and putting together a plan.

POTTING BENCHES AND SITTING AREAS: Shop around for potting benches, garden benches, garden stools and designate an area in your yard to set up a new garden and sitting area. Catalogs and online wholesalers are already unveiling all kinds of gardening tools, containers and garden décor.

GO BATTY: Hate those pesky bugs, especially mosquitoes? Now is the time to get a bat house – one bat will literally eat thousands of bugs in one night (and unlike us, they love mosquitoes).

DIVIDING PLANTS: If you like to divide plants in the spring, make sure you have all the containers ready before spring arrives. That includes containers for starting seed packets.

PRUNING: Start researching which of your trees or bushes may need pruning come spring and make sure your pruning gear is sharp.

SHOP TIL YOU DROP:  Winter is also an excellent time to find bargains and clearance in almost every category.  Consider refreshing your home, wardrobe, balcony, patio or yard.

CLEAN OUT!  Time to purge and clean out unnecessary “stuff!”  Think “donate“:  clothing, furniture, books, etc.  Your unwanted items will get a second chance and can help someone in desperate need.  Contact churches, fellowship groups, assisted living homes or non-profits such as Salvation Army and Good Will.

The Who told us: There Ain’t No Cure for the Summertime Blues. But YES, there is a cure for the Wintertime blues by planning for spring right now!

Enjoy the thrill of the chill and make your spring planning fun by sipping on gourmet coffee or hot chocolate – incorporate your favorite snacks and comfort food! Watch mindless TV or listen to music while you setup a garden/nature journal for your spring and summer plans. Compile your lists of supplies and products you need and get them in advance. Winter is a great time of year to bargain shop – take advantage of it. It’s also a GREAT time to pick up a good book – check out our “books category” for book reviews.