That extra hour of daylight after we sprung forward has me feeling like spring is finally here, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve been counting down the days. Those winter months can feel long, especially when you’re a stay-at-home parent. The cabin fever, the constant indoor activities, and the lack of sunshine… it can really take a toll.
Hi everyone, it’s Keli from The Stay at Home Space, where I share my journey and experiences as a stay-at-home mom and build a supportive community. If you’re new here, you can learn more about me in my ‘Get to Know Me’ post: Meet Keli: The SAHM Behind “The Stay at Home Space”. Today, I want to talk about that emotional shift we experience as stay-at-home parents when winter finally gives way to spring. For me, winter always feels like a time of hibernation, and I’m always so excited to feel the renewed energy that comes with the spring season.
The Winter Blues: A SAHP’s Perspective
Let’s be real, winter as a SAHP can be tough. The days feel endless when you’re stuck indoors with little ones, especially when the weather makes outdoor play impossible. I remember one particularly dreary day in January. The kids were bouncing off the walls, I was feeling completely drained, and the thought of another indoor activity made me want to hide under the covers.
It’s not just the physical constraints, either. The lack of social interaction can really get to you. I missed those opportunities to spend time in my own backyard with the family, which is something we do a lot when the weather is nice.
Yianni playing with his toy Char-Broil set in warmer weather.
Shopping trips, which are a rare treat when my husband is able to join, became even less frequent. Even going to a park with a playground, something we love to do as a family, was often out of the question due to the cold and unpredictable weather.
To add to it all, my early months of pregnancy fell right in the middle of winter, and the constant sickness made it even harder to stay active and engaged. The isolation felt heavy, and I started to feel a bit like I was losing myself in the endless cycle of household chores and childcare. It’s easy to start to feel like you are just a caretaker, instead of a person with interests and needs.
Embracing Spring: Renewed Energy and Connection
Spring is coming… and honestly, I can practically feel the shift already. It’s like a switch is about to be flipped. Suddenly, the days are brighter, the air is warmer, and I feel like I can breathe again. For me, spring is like a reawakening. After months of feeling cooped up, I can finally throw open the windows and let the sunshine in. And, of course, it’s the start of gardening season! There’s something incredibly therapeutic about getting my hands dirty in the soil, planting seeds, and watching them sprout. It’s a way to connect with nature and feel a sense of accomplishment, even if it’s just growing a few herbs on my windowsill.
Kostas planting bean seeds.
My first year attempting baby carrots! Carrots & cherry tomatoes.
Yianni playing with Kinetic Sand.
But it’s not just the gardening that lifts my spirits. The warmer weather means we can finally spend more time in our backyard, our little haven of family fun. The kids love running around barefoot on the grass, and I love watching them explore and discover the wonders of nature. We can also venture out to the park again, without worrying about freezing temperatures. And, we can finally start having barbecues and family get-togethers in the backyard again. That’s something I’m sure we all look forward to.
Above all, spring brings a renewed sense of connection. The isolation of winter starts to melt away, and I feel like I’m coming back to myself. The extra daylight, especially the warmth it brings, seems to boost my mood, and I find myself feeling more energetic and optimistic. It’s like a weight has been lifted, and I’m ready to embrace all the joys and adventures that spring has to offer.
Practical Tips for SAHPs to Embrace Spring
Spring is a time for renewal, and there are so many ways to embrace it as a SAHP. Here are some of the things that have helped me:
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Cultivate Your Green Thumb: Gardening in Spring
Get Outside and Garden: As you know, gardening is my passion. Even if you don’t have a big yard, you can start small with a container garden on your patio or windowsill. I love using these Burpee Coconut Coir and 72-Cell Seed Starter Tray to get my seedlings started. You may also find smaller trays with less cells and/or without the starting medium at your local Walmart. It’s a great way to get some sunshine, fresh air, and connect with nature. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with the kids!
Explore the Outdoors: Family Outings and Nature Walks
Plan Family Outings: Take advantage of the warmer weather and plan some family outings. We love going to local parks with playgrounds. But we also really enjoy walking on nature trails. It’s a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise. When we go on trails, I always make sure to pack a small snack for the kids. We focus on sightseeing and discovering the natural wonders around us. Of course, bug spray is a must-have! This STEM mosquito repellent is essential for our trail walks because I like to use essential oils to keep pests at bay, but if you’re looking for something a little stronger, this OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent may be a little more up your alley. If you’d like to incorporate games, scavenger hunt cards can be a fun way to engage the kids. My 4-year-old enjoyed playing with his Melissa & Doug Explore Play Set.
Backyard Fun: Barbecues and Family Gatherings
Embrace Backyard Barbecues: With spring comes barbecue season! We love hosting family get-togethers in our backyard. It’s a great way to socialize and enjoy the beautiful weather. We got this Char-Griller Wrangler Charcoal Grill two summers ago, and it’s been a game-changer for our backyard parties. This grill comes with accessory hooks, so when we were gifted grilling tools, I was quick to hang the spatula and cast-iron grid lifter on them!
Recharge and Relax: Prioritizing SAHP Self-Care
Find Moments for Self-Care: As SAHPs, we often put everyone else’s needs before our own. But it’s important to prioritize self-care. I love taking a few minutes occasionally to enjoy a cup of tea in the sunshine or sit peacefully in my backyard to take in some fresh air while the kids are occupied. I also find that using shower steamers or Dr. Teal’s Epsom salt soak (lavender or eucalyptus) helps me unwind and relax.
Connect and Engage: Building Community in Spring
Connect with Your Community: Look for local stay-at-home parent meetups or community events for activities. Spring is a great time to reconnect with others and build your support network. Check out local libraries and community centers for free events.
Remember, embracing spring is about finding what works for you and your family. Don’t be afraid to try new things and create your own springtime traditions.
Sunnier Days Ahead
As we bid farewell to the winter blues and embrace the warmth of spring, I hope you’re feeling as refreshed and energized as I am. Remember, this season is a time for renewal, connection, and finding joy in the simple things. Whether it’s planting a garden, taking a family walk on a nature trail, or simply enjoying the sunshine in your backyard, there are so many ways to embrace the beauty of spring.
I’d love to hear how you’re embracing spring! What are your favorite springtime activities? Do you have any tips for combating the winter blues? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – let’s inspire each other!
And as we step into these sunnier days, let’s continue to build our supportive community. I look forward to reading your comments and connecting with you all! You can also find me on Lemon8 for occasional glimpses into my life and springtime adventures.
Here’s to a season filled with warmth, connection, and plenty of sunshine. We’re in this together!
With Love
Keli ♥
