Goodbye Winter - It's Spring in Riverside

Sure, some parts of the U.S. are still seeing snow, but here in Riverside, it's all orange blossoms and blue sky. That means it's time to say goodbye to winter. And part of that ritual is spring cleaning time. Which doesn't mean dusting and sweeping  - although it can. Here are some other spring cleaning ideas that are a part of my springtime every year.

Garage sale. Yes, one of the best ways to spring clean is to simply get rid of unwonted items. Whether it's outgrown children's toys or that strange looking desk lamp, having an old fashioned garage sale is a great thing to do. Not only can it put a little extra cash in your pocket, left overs can be donated to a worthy charity or two.

Home maintenance. You don't have to go overboard. Just pick one necessary item and make sure it gets done. So whether that's cleaning out or replacing rain gutters, or replacing that leaky shower head, just do it. No procrastinating. Small steps, big results.

Finances. Yes, it's almost tax time. Spring is the time to get your receipts and your 1040's in order, whether it's you putting it all together or your accountant.

Recreation. Have you been longing to take up tennis again? What about checking out the Riverside Art Museum, or taking a long stroll through the citrus groves at the California Citrus State Historic Park? You see, spring cleaning means more than just house cleaning. It means getting the cobwebs brushed off of you, too. No more winter couch potato! Get going.