We've waited patiently all winter for the first taste of spring and finally we have started to see the green buds of tulips planted last fall and this past week the weather has been warm enough to fire up the grill and take long walks, bike rides and renew our love affair with the outdoors.

In these early spring moments, our excitement to feel the sun on our skin and wear shorts again, however briefly, causes us to forget that the springtime sun can cause sunburn. The more we learn about the pros and cons of sun exposure though the more challenging things get.

We know that drinking in the sun is the very best way to boost our Vitamin D levels, which is associated with stronger bones and a much healthier immune system. We also know that sun exposure without sunscreen is a recipe for sunburn, skin damage and increasing the risk of skin cancer dramatically.

Even though Vitamin D is really important, sunscreen should still be a staple even in these early spring sunny days. Dig out last summer's supply or buy some new sunscreen and apply it early and often. Because most of us aren't the best at redoing sunscreen as often as we should, your kids (and you) will still get enough sun exposure to enhance your Vitamin D levels without putting your skin at unnecessary risk for skin cancer.

Sunscreen in the spring may seem like overkill, but get one spring sunburn on your tender skin used to the clouds and cold of winter and you will increase your skin cancer risk - and not even get a tan that will last! Not worth it!