Sunday, January 1, 2012

THINGS YOU SHOULD THROW OUT ON NEW YEAR'S DAY

Instead of resolutions, I like to clean up my space. It's a kind of starting over, a new beginning, and a second chance to do better. So, what surrounds me, whether physically or mentally, that needs to be removed?

#1-Clean out the refrigerator. Case in point: that little dab of bean dip in the square bowl, no one is going to eat; the month-past-due single carton of yogurt; the two limp carrots, now trying to re-sprout; the four bags, each holding about 1/2 cup frozen vegetables, now frozen into a solid mass I never got around to using; the 1/3 package of six month old Chinese noodles which now taste like cardboard; shall I continue? No, you get the picture.

#2-Thin out your closet. I once read a column by a fashion consultant that claimed any article of clothing in your closet that you have not worn for two years, should be given to Goodwill, or perhaps burned. She claims you will never wear it. (I have reservations about this...I have found a couple of sweaters stashed toward the back I hadn't worn for five or more years...and now I'm wearing them.)

#3-This is related to #2. Please, by all means, get rid of any article of clothing with shoulder pads!

#4-Like clothing, throw out old make-up. For one thing, foundation and mascara, especially, become contaminated with bacteria and can cause eye infections. Besides, this is a very good time to take advantage of the new "look" in make-up, whatever it might be. If you don't use make-up, then disregard this advice.

#5-Writing supplies- This one I love! First, go through all your pens and pencils and throw out all that skip when you write, are dry, are ugly, have Super 8 Motel or Weir's Insurance written on the side, and anything else that generally doesn't make a mark that is pleasing. Me? I prefer a fine-point pen, like the Roller Ball pens, and if I can find the Super Fine, then I'll grab those. I'm very picky about this, but still...there are those others I really should use. But no...this is New Year's and I get to throw them out.

#6-Stupid story ideas and old partial manuscripts-my files have many such items, and I know in my heart none will ever turn into The Great American Novel. Now is the time to delete all those so I won't stare at them and wonder...how can I make that plot work? Out, out it goes! No, wait. Maybe I was a bit hasty. Perhaps I'll just create a new folder titled "Manuscript Dump." That way, when a good idea does come....yes, that's a better idea.

#7-Throw out or consolidate notes- old sticky notes or single note sheets scattered in various places on my desk must go. Useless newspaper articles, quote of the day, all kinds of words on paper that mean nothing. I do have one spiral notebook that I keep a running list of things to do that concern writing or promotion, and that system works well for me. However, I cannot break myself from scribbling these nonsensical notes. Out!

#8-And while we're at it, let's throw out our negative thoughts about our ability to be a good writer, or our jumbled thoughts about the possibility of changing genres, or maybe even our sense of failure...or at least, our sense of not accomplishing as much as we would like.

New Year's Day gives us a good re-set point, a do-over, or a back to basics routine.

New Year's Day gives us a chance to look ahead...not back.

New Year's Day gives us a chance to Delete old thoughts, old feelings, and old failures.

Celia Yeary-Romance...and a little bit 'o Texas  
http://www.celiayeary.blogspot.com
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http://sweetheartsofthewest.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Celia-Yeary-Author/208687145867971             

95 comments:

  1. OMG--that's almost everything I have!! LOL-HNY!

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  2. Celia, I need you to come help me. :) You mentioned all the things I've been putting off, but I did start cleaning my office yesterday and cleaned out the fridge this morning. Lovw the last line and agree negative thoughts need to go.

    Happy New Year!

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  3. Celia,
    I always clean New Year's Eve. I cleared out the fridge, took out all the trash and recycling. I even cleaned off my book shelves.

    Happy 2012!

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  4. Great advice, Celia. I'm still working on throwing out and giving away stuff we don't need. I got a good head start with taking out the hard drives and getting rid of some old computers. Also got rid of some old VCRs and DVD players the DH wanted to keep, which didn't work right anyway!

    The makeup is a different problem. I have some never used and don't know if would still be okay if I decided by some chance to use it.

    Morgan Mandel
    http://morganmandel.blogspot.com

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  5. I agree on some of those things, Celia. Especially those lurking in the fridge. But I'm hanging onto my Nehru jacket. They're coming back. Really.

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  6. Hi, Celia--Happy New Year : )

    I am in the kitchen today, making some of my favorite foods which require a variety of spices and seasonings. I cleaned out my spice cabinet this morning ; )

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  7. Celia, I'm with you on the sorting and tossing, but...I don't do it on New Year's. Since we divide time between homes in FL and KY, I do this twice each year prior to the semi-annual trek. And being a wanderer all of my life, whenever the move occurs, I sort and toss. So how can I still have so much "stuff" both places? Linda, a cnfessed pack-rat.

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  8. I'm cleaning my desk or what will be my writing desk now. It's small and in the corner of the kitchen so can't keep anything that I definitely won't need. My husband took back the study and he has the big desk now. He put all his antiques and sport trophies in the man's cave. I'm not calling it a study any longer. LOL I like everything on your list, especially about tossing out the negative thoughts. I'm hoping to have a contract for a new release or maybe a release in 2012.

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  9. Hi, Annette--Yeah, I'd like to see a refrigerator that DIDN'T have this stuff.

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  10. Caroline--you're on your own, girl! I have plenty to keep me busy. The negative thought might be the toughest to get rid of.

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  11. Keena-it's surprising how many people do clean on NYD!

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  12. Morgan--if your make-up hasn't been open, it's still good. I wish I could go without it...but no, not a good idea for me.

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  13. Yes, John, but the jacket won't be called that anymore. It's have a new name, so just watch and yes, you'll probably see it back one day!

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  14. Virginia--I forgot about the spice cabinet! I need to do that--probably someis moldy.

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  15. Linda--I don't know how you have anything left! A forced twice a year cleaning probably is a good thing.

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  16. Diane--yes, keep those postive thoughts coming, and you will get that contract!
    I have a small desk in the corner of the bedroom, and dh has the spare room, his study. You'd think I would mind...but I don't. I'm more in the center of the places I go to all day--kitchen, laundry room, bathroom...you know.

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  17. I get a big box and shove everything from my desk into it, to be sorted later. Um, I have about 10 of these big boxes...wonder what's in them?

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  18. Excellent advice, but unfortunately I have a real problem throwing clothes away. There's always that off chance I might lose weight, or gain weight, and wear the old things again. Loss of weight would be my preference.

    Fun blog!

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  19. Lovely post. One we can all relate to, for sure. Happy 2012, Celia!!

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  20. I was doing this kind of thing before Christmas. Now for my files! They always have old stuff I have to get rid of each year while prepping for taxes.

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  21. I love #8. Throw out negative thoughts. As for cleaning I did sort a few things while putting away Christmas decorations. I have a long way to go yet though.

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  22. I don't clean on New Year day. For us it's day to go to church, and then gather with friends and play cards. Winning on New Year Day means that you'll have a lucky year.

    I just clean my desk two days ago and hope it'll stay clean for a week at least.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Thanks Celia, here's some more.
    Sort Christmas stuff you didn't use this year. Will you ever?

    Inventory your stock of books? You'll need this for tax time. Do you need to purchase more for upcoming book signings?

    And those email inboxes that grow all year with stuff you'll go back and read later...and don't.

    And donate to your local charity or thrift shop any unfortunate Christmas gifts that you'll never use.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Some great ideas. I SO agree about tossing those pens that skip. I am an old shorthand-writing secretary who loves those fine tip pens. Why then, do I not toss the rest. Maybe I am trying to be frugal? :) While talking about writing utensils, I think I will replace the batteries in my pencil sharpener and make all these dull pencils useable. As far as the rest, I don't know. Last summer I cleaned out a lot of 'stuff' and might need to hold on to the rest until I recover from the trauma. ;) It ain't easy.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Paisley...maybe we were born frugal. It seem like a sin to throw away something that still sort of works. But it's like spilled milk...don't cry over it...let it go.
    I have a gift card to Office Depot..I know..who has a gift card to Office Depot...and I'm goin tomorrow to buy a box of ten of those Roller balls pens! Merry Christmas to me.!

    ReplyDelete
  26. Amber--you mentioned a couple I never think about until I must do it. Yes, it's best to do some things early on and be prepared.
    Oh, the Saved items in my inbox...now, that I can relate. I have probably hundreds, and forget I saved them for some specific reason. Guess I'd better take a look!

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  27. Mona--well, I didn't get as much done as I wanted, that's for sure.
    I love to play cards...I like the custom you have.

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  28. Yes. #8 is difficult, isn't it? I try to do that all the time, but they build up. So, New Year's is a good time to stop and sort our my feelings. Thanks.

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  29. LK-cleaning files is the very worst task. I just hate it. But..it need to be done. Thanks for reminding me.

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  30. Jacquie--that's one way to do it! But if you save all those boxes..when will you get around...never mind. Just burn it all.

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  31. Marja--I really do hate to get rid of clothing. Like you, I just know as soon as I ditch it, I'll want it back.

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  32. Fabulous post, Celia! Happy New Year!! Does this mean I'm okay throwing out the crusted nail polish from my wedding 15 years ago that I kept for 'sentimental' reasons? Yay!

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  33. My favorite "throw out" was at the end--negative thoughts. Great post, Celia. I'm hanging on to my dried up pens, sticky notes and shoulder pads. LOL

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  34. I don't have a clear out on New Year's Day, but occasionally (when the mood strikes) I decide to have a clear-out of cupboards and drawers etc. I'm always amazed at what has collected there since the last clear-out!

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  35. I love your lists! I was forced to consolidate all my sticky notes a month ago when I dumped a glass of iced tea all over everything. I moved all those bits of things onto a Rolodex (yes, they still sell them!) and I am much happier. I've been throwing out pens too.

    Funny you should mention how particular you are about pens. I am too. Pens have to "feel" right in my hand - not too heavy, not too fat, not too thin. A cushy grip is nice, but not too squishy. I like a medium point pen. For me, the fine point makes such a thin squiggle I have to put on my reading glasses to see what I wrote. Thats no good.

    I've been ditching clothes right and left. My upcoming trip to Colorado has me trying on winter things and refusing to make this or that thing last one more season. I want new stuff, warm stuff, so that's what I got for Christmas. Now the chore is to get the oldies baggged up and out of here.

    I'm pretty good about keeping the fridge empty. Not too many leftovers when you cook infrequently.

    As for makeup, my daughters and I hit on a scheme a few years back of replacing our mascaras at Easter and Christmas (stocking stuffers and Easter basket items) because all kinds of icky stuff grows in used mascara. Which reminds me, I'm due for a new tube. Off to write that down!

    Thanks for the fun post and the memory jog! Maggie

    ReplyDelete
  36. Celia,
    I've awarded your blog the Versatile Blogger award. About the award is on my blog.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Celia, I LOVE this! Clean out the refrig is perfect for #1 and limp carrots - my carrots and your carrots could be friends. **smile** wonderful ideas, Sweetie.

    I think it's a good time to reassess where you are and "clean up" the junk before starting anew.

    Thanks so much for sharing. You've been an inspiration. I'm starting on the frig after lunch. *smiles & wink*

    Steph

    ReplyDelete
  38. Love your ideas! Especially the shoulder pads (although if I could convince my husband to throw some stuff out, that would be even better). I use New Year's to throw away old and expired medicines, personally. But now I'll have to add in your suggestions. Hope you had a great New Year and holiday season!

    ReplyDelete
  39. Jennifer--I understand your husband. Mine just suffers if he must throw out something or donate it to Goodwill. He's just certain he'll need that one day.
    Happy 2012 to you, too.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Steph--well, I guess I'm good for Inspiration about something! Even if it is to get rid of overgrown carrots.
    You're so right..this is the best time to re-group. We certainly do need to do it once in a while.

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  41. Ahh, thank you, Diane...I'll look for it. Happy 2012.

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  42. Loved your comment, Maggie. It was almost a post in itself. Yours about the pens was on the mark, and I left a comment about my love affair with certain pens.Happy 2012

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  43. Paula--I know! How do we collect so much stuff? It must multiply while we're not looking. Hope your year is blessed.

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  44. Sarah--you made me laugh. There's always someone who will not get rid of stuff.
    I think Negative Thoughts have brought the most comments. How easy it is for us to accumulate those, to the point you cannot sleep.

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  45. GINA--well,I don't know. Those things that are sentimental are kept for a reason...but 15-yr-old crusted nail polish? Nah...trash it. You'll never miss it.
    Happy 2012!

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  46. I have filled three garbage bags with papers in the last two weeks. Mostly old mail and manuscripts. But I feel lighter already :)

    ReplyDelete
  47. Liana--feels good, doesn't it? To lighten our load, and clear our the useless and worthless. Thanks for your comment..

    ReplyDelete
  48. Celia, I just saw your January 1 post, and I'm now inspired to go through my paperback collection. There's a bookstore near me that will buy them, so there's no excuse for keeping a collection that's two books deep, filling five shelves.
    By the way, with all that cleaning, I hope you didn't neglect to eat your January 1 black-eyed peas!

    ReplyDelete
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