Our waterways are running at full tilt and spring buds are beginning to burst forth. How long must we wait to play in the fresh water rivers and creeks?  How many garden centers must we bypass waiting for the proper time to plant?   I can just taste the fresh lettuce, spinach and radishes that I plan to serve to my guests this spring!  While we wait for the waters and soils to warm, there is still plenty we can be doing.  Now is the time to plan and prepare our kitchen gardens and to clean kayaks and tubes.  It is the perfect time to think about what can be done to get our outdoor environments ready for warm weather fun!

The winter months were harder than usual on our outdoor living spaces, with winds whipping juniper pollen here and yon, and temperatures varying wildly.  Our furniture and fabrics have taken a beating, and many usually winter-hardy plants have been horribly damaged.  All in all, some action is definitely necessary before company comes!

Cleaning and shifting things around will work miracles in outdoor areas. Take the space down to bare bones, removing clutter and faded pillows. Put all pots off to one side and nurse or replace the damaged plants.  Be sure to prepare at least a few containers that could be used handily indoors when needed.  Clean everything from the top of the porch to the ground, then stand back and take a long look at the area.   Shift the furniture, even a bit, to give a fresh feel.  Look at your colors and freshen your fabrics.  Where would a blast of blue or another new color be a blessing?  Haul it, pot it and place it!  

Now that you have done your part, sit back and let nature do the rest; spring should be cherished for the sheer simplicity of it all.  Without any direction from us, the Hill Country blooms and this year may be a doozy!  Invest in some lovely teas, grow a little mint, and get ready for the magic of spring!