It feels like there is something different in the air this spring. Maybe it is because we all “missed” spring last year as the pandemic hit and we were all stuck at home. Whatever it may be, I am taking any opportunity to enjoy time outside, finding gratitude wherever I can. The pandemic may still be upon us, but it really is up to you to decide how you spend your time and focus your energy.

I haven’t traveled much (yet) this calendar year, so I make it a priority to find space around my town or surrounding areas to relax and “romanticize,” if you will, plain old normalcy. For example, my sister and I recently found ourselves with a free afternoon on a lovely sunny day in North Wales, Pennsylvania. With nothing but sunshine and time on our hands we decided to pick up our favorite quick meal from Panera Bread and set up a picnic in a neighboring park.

I honestly cannot remember the last time I had an intentional picnic like this one — probably since I was a little girl. I forgot how nice it is to change your scenery and re-center yourself in nature … and with yummy food, of course. I challenge readers to plan an outdoor meal this spring and summer. Don’t forget a blanket!

— Haley Fogarty, account executive