Mom’s Vibe
By Krystle J. Bailey
There comes a moment every year when we begin to notice that the birds are chirping in the morning and the sun is shining later into the day. We look around and notice the grass slowly coming back to life and feel the warmth of sunshine on our skin. We made it through another South Jersey winter.
This week we have been given the gift of beautiful, sunshiney, warm weather. While we haven’t officially crossed the Spring threshold yet, it is right around the corner. After a winter unlike any we have experienced before, we are all itching to get out and enjoy the warm, fresh air.
Check out some of these unique ways to enjoy the change of seasons in South Jersey.
Locals’ Spring On The Beach
We always talk about enjoying “Locals’ Summer” at the end of the summer season. The beaches and boardwalks are equally as enjoyable pre-summer. Of course, you likely won’t be jumping the waves but there is nothing like a nice afternoon on the sand before the busy summer season. Get out and enjoy our beautiful backyard beaches. We could all use a little Vitamin Sea.
Start A New Garden
Many families picked up gardening as a new hobby over the last year of being home. Whether you spruce up your current garden or start a new one, gardening can be a great opportunity to bond with your family over Spring weather. Some great crops to plant in the Spring include honeydew, cucumber, beets, carrots, tomatoes, peppers, beans, and broccoli. Visit your local garden center for everything you need to get started.
Visit a Local Farm
Spring weather brings fresh, new energy. The animals feel the excitement too and want to share the joy. Check out the Funny Farm Rescue and Sanctuary in Mayslanding where they just welcomed a new baby goat to the family and offer loving homes to over 500 animals. Reed’s Organic Farm and Rescue is now open in Egg Harbor Township. Reed’s is home to several farm animals as well as sustainable, regenerative farming. Experience the weekend Farmers Markets at Reed’s, take a self-guided tour of the landscape and art fixtures, and look forward to their newly renovated market center coming soon.
Take a Stroll On The Bike Path
Whether you walk, run, bike, or skip down the path, a stroll down one of our many local paths is a great way to spend a Spring day. Check out local paths including the Atlantic County Bikeway that starts at the former Shore Mall, Lake Lenape Park West in Mayslanding, and the 6.5-mile Bike path that begins in Somers Point and ends in Pleasantville.
Spread Kindness
Remember last year when everyone began putting rainbows in their windows and looking for ways to encourage their neighbors? Let’s not make kindness a thing of the past. As we are outside and enjoying the warmer weather, look for ways to spread some joy. An oldie but goodie idea is “kindness rocks.” On your next stroll around the neighborhood, pick up a few larger-sized rocks to paint some kind messages on, then redistribute them for your neighbors to enjoy.
However you choose to enjoy this Spring weather, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay kind.
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet
KrystleJBailey.com
