May's to-do list

The arrival of May means the official start of summer is just over a month away! As we creep closer and closer to the most anticipated season of the year, get yourself ready with our 10 suggestions for ways to enjoy the month of May.

1. Decorate with May flowers
Did you know that May's birth flower is the lily of the valley? These delicate beauties produce a rich and aromatic fragrance that'll add a pleasant hint of springtime freshness to your home.

2. Clean out the garage
Let's face it: cleaning out the garage isn't exactly a high priority on the endless list of household tasks. But it does need to be tackled at some point. Set aside a sunny Saturday afternoon and approach the job with relentless rigour. Don't let the garage continue to be the final resting place for items you no longer like, want or use. Have bags ready for items that are to be discarded and boxes (which you'll label, of course!) ready for items that need better storage. Be ruthless; decide what to keep and what to throw out or donate.

3. Get a facial
Spring and summer are all about shedding bulky winter layers in order to feel lighter and brighter for the season. So this month, shed some of that old, weather-beaten winter skin by getting a facial and revealing the glowing complexion that's hiding underneath. Visit wayspa.com and spasincanada.ca to book yourself a treatment at a spa near you. On a budget? Check out this guide to an at-home mini-facial.

4. Fire up the grill
Kick off the month of May with a barbecue for friends and family. Invite the gang over and indulge in favourite summertime treats -- hot dogs, hamburgers, even some of your favourite vegetables can be grilled for fantastic flavour. Check out our recipe section for tasty and delicious meals.

5. Go for evening walks
The cold weather is finally behind us for another season, and it's time to come out of hibernation. Throw open your windows and let the fresh spring air dance through your home. Even better? Every evening, go for a brisk walk and inhale that fresh air. Try to take your walk as far away from high-traffic and highly polluted areas as possible. Seek out less congested areas, like parks or countryside. If you're lucky enough to live near an ocean coast, a lakeshore or the mountains, take advantage of the opportunity to stroll in these beautiful areas that tend to have purer air than in a city centre.

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