Making Spring Happen

Though it is technically still winter, daylight savings has occurred which essentially translates to the welcoming of spring in my mind.  While spending a semester in Denmark has been incredible, the lack of sunlight was a tough adjustment for me. Thus, when the sun started shining and the temperature raised to a high of 47 degrees, I ran around like a crazy person welcoming the first signs of spring.

I like the welcoming of spring because it seems to have the most distinct seasonal transition.  To get in the mindset of spring, I enjoy changing up my routine a little bit.  Take a look and see what gets me ready for the spring time.

1.  Adding color and fresh flowers
     At the first sign of spring, my host mom and I went on project 'make spring happen' in the house.  We set fresh flowers at the table and swapped out the more ordinary table runner for one with lots of color and flower prints on it.  These two simple steps added so much life to the room and compliment the pictures hanging on the wall.  The dining room has a lot more light and color that is perfect for spring.

2.  Changing up my look
     Of course, spring requires a different look than winter because of temperature, but it is also fun to embrace the essence of spring by adding some color, patterns, and textures.  For me in Copenhagen, it is still too cold to completely ditch the winter coat however, I have been trying to swap out my all black regime to adding a little bit more white and color.  I think adding new textures adds a lot as well.  I have started to incorporate some lace which gives a more spring vibe in my opinion.

 Lips and Nails
   As I mentioned above, it is still very cold in Denmark so I can't transition to bright orange nails just yet, but I can add some more fun colors.  Shout out to my mother for sending me nail polish ( I was not feeling the bare nails look).  Also, I like to add some color to my makeup!  I typically stay pretty neutral with makeup, but I picked up this Revlon Lip Color in Darling Chérie which adds a subtle lavender color to my lips that I surprisingly really enjoy.  Who knew purple lips could be a thing?! I swear it's not weird...

3.  FOOD
    My favorite part.  Obviously.  Spring is all about colors right? So incorporate that into your diet!  Switch out the heavy winter staples like meats and stews for seasonal fruits!  My host mom and I went to the farmers market and picked up a ton of new fruit and I want to sing out loud because I am so happy about it (cue Pharrell and his hat).  This time of year I like to start making more salads and less sandwiches for lunch just because that seems to fit the mood a little bit better.  I always like to keep in mind what my mom taught from the beginning: the more colors on your plate, the better!

   I mean seriously, this look like heaven.

4.  Take advantage of the outside
    This can take so many different forms.  If I was back at college in California it would probably include going for hikes, laying out at the beach, or playing a pick up game of ultimate.  Here in Copenhagen, it means it is time for me complete my transition into Danish culture and ride my bike.  Since cycling is the most used form of transportation here, I can no longer use the cold weather as my excuse to take the train.  Today I hopped on my bike and rode around for about three hours simply exploring and getting used the roads.  I went into the city and learned how NOT to die, and I explored little neighborhoods too.  Being outside is amazing in general, but throw in some exercise, friends, Vitamin D, and of course picnics and it makes for the perfect spring life.

This is my way of making spring happen faster.  I feel that if I wish it come sooner, it should just happen.  Leave a comment letting me know your favorite things about spring!

Sincerely,

Alexandra S.