ENJOY THE SPRING THAW TOGETHER

Spring is a time for new beginnings. Every year you vow to make more time for your spouse, and the warmer weather of spring is beckoning you to keep your promise. Not sure what to do beyond dinner and a movie? You will find something for every couple in this list of spring-time activities.

For the romantic:

Rent a tandem bike and explore the nearby parks and trails. Take time to observe the wildlife, look for spring flowers, or simply take advantage of the quiet time together.

If it’s raining, make the most of it. Grab your umbrellas and take a leisurely walk together. Dance under the clouds or stomp in the puddles like children with no repercussions. 

A man and woman in a rowboat are often used to symbolize romance. Head out to the lake and let your man show off his inner Noah Calhoun (The Notebook). Don’t forget to bring bread for the ducks.

For the handy couple:

Fashion a fire pit out of brick pavers and stone. Bring in chairs for a gathering area for friends or pillows for a cozy spot to cuddle under the stars.

Tackle a small remodeling job together. Repaint the bedroom, add a backsplash in the kitchen, or replace the outdated hardware on the cabinets.

Enjoy the peaceful sound of running water by installing a backyard pond. Include plants, bright-colored koi, and a fountain. Complete the area with natural grasses and flowers that attract butterflies, such as daisies, lavender and zinnias.

For the couple that likes to play:

Get outside and fly a kite, throw a Frisbee, or play catch. Enjoy the warmer weather by practicing your golf swing or playing a round of tennis.

Check out geocaching.com for treasure hunting in your hometown. This is a great opportunity to hike and explore nature close to home. Don’t forget to sign the log book and bring a treasure to leave for the next person.

You are never too old for classic backyard games. Try bocce ball, bean-bag toss, croquet, tetherball, volleyball or badminton.

For couples that like to get dirty:

Choose a place in the yard to plant a vegetable garden. Enjoy the sun, fresh air, and the fruits of your labor as your garden grows.

Mud has been used for its healing properties since ancient times. Whether you are looking to detox, relieve tension, or rehydrate the dry skin of winter, head to the spa for a mud facial, wrap or a couple’s mud massage.  

Up for a messy challenge? Athletes of all levels will enjoy competing together in a mud run or obstacle course. Find mud runs in your area by visiting mudrunguide.com.

If it’s warm out:

When spring arrives, we want to be outside as much as possible. What better way to enjoy the spring weather than to dine al fresco? Find an outdoor café for lunch or dust off the grill and have dinner on the patio.

Work together on the chores outdoors. Wash away all signs of winter from your cars. Sweep out the leaves and road dirt from the garage. Paint the front porch swing or prepare the yard for the summer ahead.

Head out to buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks (or hot dogs and beer) and root for the home team. If you can’t make it to see a major-league game, gather a group of friends and head to the local park for your own opening day.

If the weather won’t cooperate:

Visit a botanical garden. No matter what Mother Nature is doing, you can enjoy the warm temperatures and beautiful flowers in this indoor wonderland.

Get out of the cold and wind and learn something new. Try classes in cooking, art, fencing, dancing, mixology, or whatever else strikes your fancy.

Lace up your skates and head to the indoor rinks. Hold hands with your man as you glide around the cool atmosphere of an ice rink or in the glow of the disco lights at the roller rink.