Glenn, i usually do it with a big set of wire cutters to grab onto the spring and push till it stretches.
you can also fit the spring to the brake shoe with one in place and the other shoe loose in front of the brake. easier to make the adjuster side the fitted shoe and stretch the other shoe.
then pull the shoe with spring attached till it clips into place. then fit the lock pin, spring and circle lock clip.
better to do in the morning when full of energy after good night sleep
good luck
OZ