Creativity Tip. No 5

In the dead of winter, it's good to have something bright and colorful to enjoy as a reminder that spring will come again. It's fun -- and healthy -- to surround yourself with beautiful things that remind you of sunnier days. Things like lush houseplants or bright red coffee mugs.

On my coffee table I have a basket filled with stuffed birds that "sing" their appropriate song when you squeeze them. When the wintering birds avoid my birdfeeders as they try to stay warm in their roosts, I can squeeze one of the stuffed birds and hear the songs I will hear again soon.

Find some things that remind you of spring and place them where you will see them every day. Think bright! Colorful! Spring!