Spring is here, and Central Oregonians are soaking in the warm weather after months of cold and snow

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)--  After months of cold and snow, winter is ending and spring officially arrives Tuesday evening, with a warmup seemingly right on time.

Many people are getting outside to enjoy the great weather, whether they're going to the Old Mill and downtown Bend or elsewhere. But some people are skeptical of the nice weather.

"I'm a little leery, since I've lived here for so long," Bend resident Sharlene Wanichek said Tuesday. "I've been faked out before, so I'm hoping that just the true first day of spring, no more snow. We've walked the loop around, the Old Mill.

For Sharlene, spending quality time with her sister, Margaret Anderson, was high on their list, and the warmer weather was an added bonus.

Anderson said, "It's a wonderful day, and I'm excited. I mean, I love the blue sky. I love the mountains. Oh, my gosh -- the sun shining on them this time of year and the snow's there, it's just spectacular."

With the first day of spring, many people soaked up the sun.

Bend resident Anna Payton said, "It's a little bit chilly, but really enjoying the sun. We are kind of like working/doing school today. But mostly we just wanted to get out, enjoy the sun and get a coffee and enjoy a walk around the river."

While some people decided to stretch their legs by walking, others strapped on their helmets for a bike ride. Bend resident Lynne was on the bike ride with her friend, Mary.

"We're out today on my first bike ride of the season," Lynne said. "Mary's been out a few times already, and we pedal down from First Street Rapids here to the Old Mill, and they'll keep going for a while. It is the first day of spring. It's a great way to celebrate!"

Even though the weather might dip a little during spring, we can still expect new plants and pretty flowers starting to bloom.