Spring has always been one of my favorite seasons. The return of the leaves, flowers all in bloom, sunshine beaming on our winter white skin. The return of sunshine and warm air suggest the cold of winter has finally left us and the beauty of spring is quickly approaching.

Of the various aspects of spring I cherish, my favorites are the following:

1. Birds begin to chirp

The first time I wake up and hear the birds chirping outside, I know that spring is on the rise. The song of birds is a peaceful sound to wake to and gives me hope that the cold will soon come to an end. If the birds have flown back north and are warm enough to be outside, I will be too!

2. Flowers bloom

The trees that have sat bare and brown for months will once again grow leaves and flowers will sprout across gardens. Color is restored in the world with an abundance of vibrant flowers and budding trees. This is one of the best parts about spring because it represents rebirth and new life for all living things in nature.

3. Reading a book outside

One of the greatest feelings is sitting outside basking in the sun while reading a good book. Reading is a year-round activity but having the ability to sit outside on a lawn chair and enjoy the fresh air. It is easy to feel blissful when soaking up the sun and stepping into a fictional life, sometimes pretending it is your own.

4. The air is warmer and the sun is brighter

Being outside is no longer a race to the car to beat the cold before it seeps beneath your skin. The air is warm enough to leave you comfortable in your walk, wherever the destination may be.

5. The days are longer

Daylight Savings is typically the first sign of spring because it lengthens our days, giving us more daylight each day. I love when it is still light outside at eight o'clock at night. The more light there is, the easier it is to be happy. Sunshine really does work as medicine for the winter blues!

6. Soccer season starts

My favorite sport to watch and play is soccer. The MLS season starts in March typically, when we are just on the brink of spring. NYCFC, my team, has begun their season and as soon as the game kicks off, spring is here. Go NYCFC!

7. Jackets are no longer necessary

It is refreshing the first time you walk outside without a jacket and don't feel cold. The air is comfortable and inviting. The weather is in agreement with us and the outdoors are calling.

8. Summer is just around the corner!

Summer is known as the happiest season and spring means summer is up next! I enjoy every moment of spring and look forward to all that summer will bring.