This morning I woke up to a wonderful sound.

It was I sound I haven’t heard in many, many months.

It was a sound that sometimes wakes me up in the middle of the night…startled and afraid.

But this morning, it was different.

This morning the sound was welcome…even a bit soothing.

It was the sound of a thunderstorm.

Ahhh…thunder and rain, the glorious sounds of spring.

I’m not going to lie. It’s been a long winter. Even for this Michigan girl who truly loves snow. But, this year, in the midst of the most snow I’ve experienced since moving south to the St. Louis area, I decided to train for an early spring half marathon. Which means, this year the snow hasn’t been my friend. In fact, it’s been quite a pain.

So while thunderstorm season can also mean other unwelcome spring weather events, this morning the thunderstorm was a pleasant reminder that, like everything else, this winter, too, will pass. Now I’m sure in the sweltering heat of summer I will think that I miss winter, but one thing is certain right here and now: I’m craving spring! Are you?

cleaning supplies

Unfortunately we can’t do anything about the weather. So whether it’s cold in your neck of the woods or you’re experiencing a little taste of spring like I am today, there are things we can do to pretend spring is really here for good…things like spring cleaning. What do you say we get our spring cleaning out of the way early this year so when the warmer weather (and sunshine!) roll around for good, we’ll be able to go outside and enjoy it?

If you’re looking for ideas to put together a cleaning schedule, then head on over to the Better Homes & Gardens website. You’ll find an article about putting together a simple, whole-house cleaning schedule featuring ideas from yours truly. (It was so fun to be a part of this!) The article includes a cleaning checklist, plus a how-to guide for putting together your own cleaning schedule. Get your schedule put together now…and then, you can sit back, relax, and be ready to head outside when spring finally arrives for good!

When it comes to saying goodbye to winter and hello to spring, what are you you most looking forward to? (My guess is it’s not spring cleaning!) But what is it for you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Thanks for sharing!

Happy organizing!

Aby