As the world blossoms anew around us and a new season takes hold, spring offers a chance to reset, to consider what we enjoy about our lives and, maybe, what we would like to alter. Spring feels like an opportunity to reshape our routines, to soak up the sunlight and stop and smell the flowers.

Here are a list of some simple spring pleasures that I hope will bring you as much joy as they bring me:

Outdoor dining: I love eating outside any chance I get. Chairs and tables now line downtown Concord, offering a plethora of opportunities to sit outside, sip a drink and watch the world around me.

Reading in a park: There’s an abundance of parks to choose from in the area. Grab a picnic blanket or simply take a seat on the grass under a tree. My favorite spot is by the pond at White Park. I never fail to get lost in a good novel and lose track of time while listening to the birds chatter around me and enjoying the warmth of the sun on my skin.

Going on a hike: Apart from rainy days that make trails muddy, spring hiking is the best! It’s not too hot. The trails aren’t yet crowded with tourists. The bugs stay at a minimum. And you get to see green shooting up from the once-barren ground, reminding all of us of the season unfolding before our eyes.

Hitting the farmers market:The Concord Farmers Market moved outside at the start of May. I love strolling down the street on Saturday with a drink in hand and browsing all the produce stalls. Usually I walk away with a loaf of freshly-baked bread, a block of cheese and multiple kinds of fruit.

Rachel Wachman can be reached at rwachman@cmonitor.com