April in New England
April: A Season of Renewal, Fine Living and Simple Pleasures
As the last traces of a very long New England winter melt away, April always promises that Spring weather is on its way. This is the month of fresh starts, where we slowly trade our heavy coats for light sweaters and we open our windows to enjoy a crisp, invigorating breeze, even if it is only for a moment.
Signs of Spring:
For me, one of the greatest joys of April is witnessing the magic transformation of nature. Forsythia bursts from green to a brilliant yellow, daffodils, snowdrops, and squill grow quickly and sometimes get covered in snow, but yet still survive. It's then I know tulips won't be far behind.
Once tapped for their sweet sap, our maple trees, that are full of red buds, will soon become bright green leaves. As of today, April 1st, I have not heard peepers, but I expect to hear them any day now. Ever since I was a child, the sound of peepers in the evening signals the true arrival of Spring and reminds me of simpler times.
Embracing Outdoor Moments:
April invites us outside, whether for a brisk walk through a historic village, the first garden planting of the season, or simply enjoying a cup of tea on the porch. It won't be long until New England's farmers' markets begin to reopen, offering fresh produce, locally made goods, and the first hints of garden-ready herbs to plant. There's something special about bringing home a bundle of tulips, or freshly baked bread, a small way to celebrate the season and create new memories.
A Time for Home & Garden Refresh:
For those who don't watch my YouTube channel, we are currently dealing with a lot of demolition and construction inside our home due to winter storm damage and ice dams. Items from four rooms are piled into every other room in our house, and the dust is ever-flying, but I like to think we are enjoying a bit of Spring cleaning our own way. We are clearing out the old and making way for the new, and by new, I mean new walls, ceilings, floors, and carpet. What I didn't get done in March, April is the perfect time to swap out cozy winter blankets for lighter linens, add fresh flowers to a room or two, and put away the last of the winter decor. Depending on where you live, some of the early planting can begin in the garden.
Early April Gardening: What to Plant
For those eager to get their hands in the soil, April is an ideal time to start planting cold-hardy vegetables, herbs, and flowers. I did a bit of research and this is what I found for Zone 5, where I live, the season begins with leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, along with root vegetables like carrots, radishes, and beets. Peas can also be sown directly into the garden. Herbs such as parsley, chives, thyme, and cilantro thrive in the cool air, adding fresh flavors to seasonal dishes. For a touch of visual beauty, pansies, violas, and primroses offer early bursts of color, brightening garden beds and window boxes.
Celebrating Simple Pleasures
April is a month to slow down and senjoy life's simple joys: a drive along scenic backroads looking for budding trees, a rainy afternoon spent with a good book, or the scent of fresh earth after a warm spring shower. It's about embracing the change of weather, finding beauty in the simple moments, and welcoming the promise of warmer days. On those rainy days, consider indoor activities like baking a new recipe, starting a new craft project, or organizing a spring cleaning session. These activities can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy, even when the weather keeps us indoors
So, as April begins, let's step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and celebrate this season, one simple pleasure at a time.