As of writing this, the temperature outside is 43 degrees. This, while cold, is not unusual if the past week is anything to go by.

Unfortunately we are only a week and a half away from the official beginning of Spring and it still feels like the dead of winter some days.

Plans made to go out and enjoy nature this past weekend were dashed the moment you set foot out of the door.

Hopefully the coming week and weekend will see an increase in the temperature and a clearing up of grey skies because there is a lot coming up to look forward to.

This coming Saturday will see the first St. Paddy’s on the River event put on by the Greater Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. Between the arts & crafts, food and concerts, the event looks to be one for the history books.

St. Paddy’s is a good kickoff for spring because following it there are several other spring events to enjoy, from fishing tournaments to races to barbecues.

Spring also means it is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the natural world.

Whether hiking along many of the trails in the area or kayaking down the Chattahoochee, there are many outdoor activities to take part in.

This is also the time to throw on swim clothes and take a dip. There is a pool at the community center and West Point Lake is a great place to visit.

There is just so much to look forward to this spring. We just have to get through the last vestiges of winter first.