Organized for Life: Happy Organized New Year!
By Deb Powell
Retired member of POC
Don’t put away all the holiday decorations!
Yes, that’s what I said. Snowmen, angels, greenery, mistletoe, reindeer… are also winter decor (if they’re not too Christmassy), so leave some of them out. Lights especially create a beautiful atmosphere. This makes less work and keeps some of the beauty and magic alive. Remember to diffuse or simmer nice scents: vanilla, pine, orange, cinnamon…
Christmas tree, decorations, and items:
Put away anything that is holiday specific like tea towels, bowls, cutting boards, mugs, oven mitts, throw pillows, blankets, clothes, lamps…
Donate things you have too many of, or are tired of
Throw out damaged items
Label and put delicate items in boxes, egg cartons, unused hard suitcases…
Donate or re-gift non suitable and unwanted gifts
Organize the New Year: Let’s make it the best year yet!
Clean as you put decorations away, or, have a separate time for that
Write thank you notes, and/or send Christmas cards… it’s nice to get them after the rush is over
Visit those you didn’t have time for during the holidays
Pay credit card charges as soon as possible
Make notes of what you’ll do differently next year
Get organizing for the winter: Make plans, verify or adjust resolutions, take classes, start lessons, learn a craft, work on a project…
Plan spring gardening and/or landscaping
Reflect on the past year and see how you can improve your life, health, relationships…
Create a Communication Centre!
Clear communication is the key to a smooth running household
The kitchen is best, or by the main door. It’s easy, inexpensive, and fun!
You’ll need:
Chalk, white, or cork board to post things and leave notes…
Wall calendar with all meetings, events, appointments…
Posted list of family and emergency numbers
File or bin for each persons’ mail or stuff (small things)
If you didn’t rearrange the furniture for the holidays, now is a great time… A fresh look for a new season! When I rearrange, it’s like I have a new home!
Watch for February’s article: 3 Areas of the Heart
Questions and feedback welcome at debmag04@gmail.com
