Some of us are already washing our coats to put them away, planning gardens and doing other springtime tasks. But keep in mind that cool nights linger a while, so still take a jacket or something when driving farther than a pleasant walk home.

It would be silly to get through the worst of winter, only to be lost to exposure when spring comes around because you didn't bring a jacket out with you.

Here's some other things to consider:

Is it time for new epinephrine injectors for allergy-prone family members?

Have you reminded children & grandchildren about bees, wasps, hornets, etc?

Also remind them that new baby snakes will be hatching, and they look like big worms, except scaley. Real worms don't have shiny scales.

Speaking of new baby critters, give everyone the reminder that you are NOT up for adopting every wild critter they happen to notice. Even if something really IS orphaned, if it isn't an endangered species, and thus a candidate for experts to take them ... well, hawks and buzzards need to eat too.

If you have insufficient pollinators in your area, have you considered buying or ordering some? (Those allergic to insect stings should still be able to get ladybugs.) They spread out and improve an area, so people trying to get food plots going where they hunt should also consider it.

Beneficial nematodes are also a good idea, as they help control the bugs you don't want, without risking the health of children, pets, chickens, deer, etc.

Worms too, get a container of the little guys that are good for fishing when you're after smaller frying-pan type fish (like brookies & rainbows,) and put them in the loosened soil when you're putting out all the tomatoes you started indoors. Mulch well (just not right up to the stems,) even worms need something to eat.

Maybe teach your kids/grandkids to "farm" worms, if you have a safe & sheltered spot to do so.

And for our southern-hemisphere friends, be mindful of the weather, and seasonal storms!