4 Reasons to Love (or Hate) Spring in Illinois

It has officially been spring in Illinois for almost a month now, but I think we're finally entering into the only part of spring that everyone actually enjoys.

Spring Insanity In Illinois

Spring in Illinois. A time widely celebrated for...well, its ability to test your patience.

Here's an example;

One week ago my kids were swimming in a neighbors inflatable pool, and then just 6 days later we were at a soccer game in stocking caps and heavy coats literally freezing our faces off.  The way I see it, Illinois has four phases of spring, and it takes too long to get to the good part.

Follow me here for a minute...

The Four Phases of Spring in Illinois

False Spring may only be a legit term used in the botanical world, but the way I see it, Illinois has three false spring phases to make it through before we get to the best parts of the season.

Phase 1 - "The Great Brown Hope"

The first phase is when all the snow and ice has finally melted, and temps have warmed enough to make you want to go outside, but you're greeted by a soggy, muddy mess.

Phase 2 - "The Pooper-Scooper Shuffle"

The second phase begins when you know the snow is done, you want to start sitting outdoors again, and you're tired of staring at the dog poo minefield that winter has left in your backyard.

Phase 3 - "The Fake Out"

This is one of the hardest phases to endure because you have already been treated to warmer temps, outdoor fun, and sprouting plants, and then BOOM, temps drop like a hammer and you're wearing thick sweaters and freezing again. Most people think of this phase as "second winter" because it is usually accompanied by snow and a lot of rain ushering in another melting, muddy mess.

Phase 4 - "Actual Spring"

The final phase is the one we signed up for – blooming flowers, sunshine that warms your soul, and the sweet sounds of birdsong and lawn mowers that isn't overshadowed by the whine of the furnace.

This, my friends, is the reward for enduring the three rollercoaster phases before it, and I think it's safe to say Illinois has finally made it to this point so...ENJOY!

READ MORE: Why You Should Let Your Yard Go Wild This May in Illinois