The sun is shining brightly, the air is warm and the birds are chirping away.

I find myself turning off the heater at home and letting the great outdoors cool down my house. I’ve been rolling down my car windows on my way to work. I even dried my last load of laundry outdoors, by hanging it out on a line to dry in the warm breezes.

Recently, taking my dog, Miyagi, for his daily walks hasn’t involved me bundling up in three sweaters, a heavy coat and two pairs of gloves. Miyagi has had even more energy than he used to and often wants to spend more time outside.

Of course, that might have more to do with the flocks of cardinals, robins and other assorted birds that have invaded the back yard with the warmer temperatures.

In short, it feels like a typical week in April.

Except it’s February and despite my excitement over the warm weather, I know in a few days, when the temperatures dip back into the 40s, I won’t appreciate the weather’s fakeout very much.

But what I can enjoy about this taste of spring is that it heralds the time when we all want to get outside and do something.

Yes, this great weather is an invitation to get outside before it’s gone. And even when the temperatures drop again and the rainy days return, the few days of warmth will serve as a reminder of what’s to come.

In Suffolk, the weather reminds us of all the upcoming events that can get you outside, while making it easy for you to participate in a good cause.

While it’s true that the March of Dimes’ March for Babies and the Rockin’ Relay for Life, both outdoor walks that raise money for great causes, won’t happen until April 30 and May 13-14, respectively, fundraising for both events is in full swing and serves as a way to generate excitement for both the events and for the arrival of spring.

Relay for Life teams have already held multiple fundraising events, and the March for Babies officially kicks off on Monday with a luncheon event. But it’s not too late to get involved in either of the opportunities. Whether you start a team, join one that’s already been created or just find a way to donate money, it’s easy to show your support.

For more information about the March for Babies, read our Faith & Family page on 1B or visit www.marchofdimes.com/Virginia.

For more information on Suffolk’s Rockin’ Relay for Life, visit www.therelayforlife.org/ and click on “Suffolk Rockin’.”