Dreaming of Spring While Battling Winter’s Last Stand

 

It’s that time of year again—when our minds are filled with thoughts of warm sunshine, fresh soil, and the sound of birds returning, yet outside, the wind howls, and another snowstorm looms on the horizon. Spring fever has set in, but winter just doesn’t seem to want to loosen its grip.

Even as I bundle up against the bitter cold, my thoughts are already deep into planning for the months ahead. I’ve been going through my tree-planting books, mapping out how I’ll amend the soil, improve water maintenance, and set a schedule for the Black Hill Spruce and Cottonwoods I’ll be getting from the county conservation office. There’s something hopeful about planning, about knowing that in just a little while, I’ll be outside with my hands in the dirt instead of stuffing them into thick gloves.

Since I know firsthand how much wildlife loves to snack on new saplings, I’ve already started making tree cages to protect my future trees from deer and beavers. Nothing’s worse than putting in all that effort only to have it turned into a buffet for the local critters. Hopefully, this extra step will give my trees a fighting chance as they take root and start growing.

I’ve also started some flowers from seed. I’m working on creating a flower bed on a budget, and I can’t wait to see how it comes together. It might take some patience (and a little trial and error), but the thought of adding more color to my yard this summer keeps me excited.

For a lot of other states, spring may have already sprung. I keep seeing ads for spring clothes and all the gardening sales popping up, but around here, it’s still about 30 degrees outside—not exactly ideal weather for digging in the dirt or letting the little ones play outside for too long. We’re still very much in the waiting game phase, where the sun teases us one day, and the next, we’re shoveling snow again.

Staying Motivated Through the Last Stretch of Winter

So how do you stay motivated when the world still looks like a frozen tundra? Here are a few ways I’ve been keeping on track while waiting for spring to finally show up:

1. Plan, Plan, Plan

Now is the time to sketch out garden layouts, research the best plants for your area, and make lists of supplies so that when warm weather does arrive, you’re ready to go.

2. Start Seeds Indoors

Even if you can’t plant outside yet, getting a jump-start on flowers, herbs, and vegetables indoors can be a great way to bring a little greenery into your life while waiting for spring.

3. Tackle Small Projects

While a full landscaping overhaul might not be in the budget right now, I’m making little improvements where I can. Repainting a planter or organizing my gardening tools makes me feel one step closer to my dream yard.

4. Embrace the Last Days of Cozy

Before long, we’ll be knee-deep in outdoor projects and summer chaos. So while I’m impatient for warmth, I’m also reminding myself to enjoy the last few nights of curling up with a book, sipping hot tea, and planning at a slower pace.

Where Is This March Taking You?

What are you looking forward to as the seasons shift? Are you making plans, tackling projects, or just trying to push through the last few cold weeks?

Drop a comment and let’s keep each other motivated—spring is coming, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet! ☀️🌱