Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!" ~Robin Williams

I have always always loved spring. When it comes, it gives me a crazy feeling inside that just makes me want to dance in the sunshine. Here are a few reasons why I think spring is so wonderful:

• SUNSHINE. As soon as spring shows up I can basically feel my energy double due to the vitamin D my body is finally getting enough of again. I just want to sit outside and soak it up for hours and hours. I want to run in it, sit in the grass and bask in it, and even get up early to watch it rise and then sit and watch it set in the evening.
• EASTER. It is such an awesome holiday celebrating the Risen Christ. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and family. Matthew and I were blessed with visitors (Jenny and Tommy) as well as loving friends who welcomed us into their hearts and home for Easter dinner (Thank you McIlrath family!). Not to mention I think I ate the most delicious garlic mashed red potatoes I have EVER had. Mr. McIlrath is quite the cook and we were nowhere near hungry when we left! It was absolutely wonderful to have such great (and hilarious) people to spend Easter with.
• FLOWERS. My aunt sent me flowers for Easter and when I called to thank her she simply said "Well every house needs flowers for Easter!" I could not agree more. I love fresh flowers. They can completely brighten a room in an instant. I also love walking outside and seeing flowers in bloom. Just the sight of them makes me smile and appreciate life a little bit more.
• BEING OUTSIDE. Fresh air inspires me. It inspires me to run farther, to study harder, and to enjoy life more. I love going on long runs and walks. Just walking to class brightens my spirits because I am not freezing to death.
• THUNDERSTORMS. My cousins and I used to pretend that really bad thunderstorms were actually God bowling. The big lightning bolts only happened when he got a strike. Some nights I think God was bowling 300. I love the smell of rain and watching the lightning in the distance. And I can't help thinking God is reminding us to take a break and have some fun every so often.
• BACKYARD BAR-B-Q. Or just outdoor parties in general. Or just drinking a beer on the porch. This goes back to the being outside above.
• LIFE. The signs of new life that spring up everywhere give me the warm-and-fuzzies. Flowers, budding trees, ducklings, birds chirping. All of it just gives me the warm-and-fuzzies inside.

Happy Spring! Go outside and enjoy it!