Sorry I missed last week. I was having a bit of trouble focusing and getting things done. So this week, there will be two posts to make up for the one that was missing last week.

You know that I try to live seasonally, so this month’s blogs will focus on helping you get ready for the warmer weather. We’ll start outside and work our way in.

Though the first few days of April were shockingly cold, things are starting to warm up. So, our lives will begin shifting outside – slowly. In the DC area, we are having our typical rainy April which will be followed by our Brood X cicadas. With (literally) millions of cicadas outside in May and early June, I won’t be spending my usual amount of time outdoors, but I still need to start preparing for when they leave!

Take a look at your yard. Does anything need special attention – perhaps some grass seed, sod, or pruning? Do you have a plan for yard maintenance – a service or a mower in good condition?

Do you plan to plant a garden? If so, make sure that your soil is ready and that you plant on the schedule appropriate for your climate.

Take your outdoor furniture out of storage. Does anything need to be cleaned, repaired, or replaced? Will you want to add anything this year?

Check your grill to make sure it’s in good condition and clean. Do you need to replace any accessories (tongs, cooking baskets, etc.)? Do you have enough fuel?

Walk around the outside of the house to see if anything needs a touch-up or repair.

Get ready to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!