Alexandra Kathryn Mosca — Exploring Life and Death: A Writer's Journey

The new year is just days away. There’s something about the turn of the calendar that invites a deep breath and a reset. Not the pressure-filled “new year, new you” we’ve all grown tired of, but a quieter, more grounded version—one that begins with clearing space, refreshing your surroundings, and choosing small rituals that make everyday life feel a little more beautiful.

Start With a Purge: What to Let Go Of

January is the perfect time to take honest stock of what’s in your home. Women especially tend to accumulate “just in case” items—things we once loved, things we meant to use, things we kept out of guilt. This is the moment to release them.

Clothing

• Anything you haven’t worn in a year.
• Items that no longer fit your body or your life.
• Shoes that hurt, stretch, or pinch.
• Dresses or suits tied to a version of yourself you’ve outgrown.

Linens

• Towels that have faded or lost their fluff.
• Sheets with thinning fabric or mystery stains
• Extra blankets that never leave the shelf.

Household Goods

• Duplicate kitchen gadgets.
• Mugs you don’t love. Or those you do, but have begun to crack.
• Décor pieces that no longer match your style.
• Beauty products you tried once and abandoned.

Letting go isn’t about waste—it’s about making room for what supports the woman you are now.

Where to Donate Your Clothing

Your gently used items can make a meaningful difference. Beyond the usual thrift stores, consider donating to:

• Nursing facilities – Residents often need comfortable clothing, cardigans, slippers, and soft layers. Many facilities welcome donations for those without family support.
• Women’s shelters – Practical clothing, coats, and handbags are always in demand.
• Community closets – Local churches, schools, and mutual aid groups often distribute directly to families.
• Career re-entry programs – Suits, blouses, and workwear help women reentering the workforce.

Your closet clean-out can become someone else’s fresh start.

Places to Donate non-clothing Items:

• Animal shelters can use your towels and linens.
• Nonprofits such as “Family to Family” that accept household items including coffee pots, toasters, etc.

Refresh Your Space With Small, Joyful Upgrades

You don’t need a full renovation to feel renewed. A few thoughtful swaps can shift the energy of your home instantly.

In the Living Room

• New couch pillows in a color or texture that feels cozy and current.
• A throw blanket that actually sparks joy.
• A small plant or vase to bring life into the room.
• A home scent—candles or diffusers —to set the tone of your space. My favorites at this time of year are Jo Malone’s Pine & Eucalyptus Diffuser for feelings of freshness, nature, and calm. For a fresh, and slightly fruity scent, their Fresh Fig & Cassis Reed Diffuser is .

In the Kitchen

• A new set of pots and pans that make cooking feel like a pleasure, not a chore.
• Fresh dishware—even a few new plates can elevate your everyday meals. Last fall I finally replaced my old dish set (I bit guiltily, I admit, as they were in good shape) with stoneware from Villeroy and Boch. But once I did it, mealtime became more fun. I’m still adding pieces, including this rice bowl.
• Seasonal placemats or cloth napkins to make dinner feel intentional.

These aren’t indulgences—they’re investments in the rituals that shape your days.

Choose a personal New Scent for the New Year

A fragrance can be a quiet declaration of who you’re becoming. Whether you prefer something warm and spicy, soft and floral, or clean and citrusy, choosing a new scent is a symbolic way to step into the year with intention.

I came across a scent I didn’t know before while reading a book. It’s called Vent Vert Eau De Parfum by Balmain, and it caught my interest. The description says it’s an uplifting fragrance with vibrant vert de mandarine and sensual jasmine. It sounds so refreshing and perfect for the new year.

Consider:

• A signature perfume.
• A body lotion or shower gel that layers beautifully.

A new scent is like a whisper to yourself: This is my season of renewal.

And to get your new year organized, Mary Engelbreit’s Do It For Yourself 12-Month 2026 Pocket Planner does it “with a touch of whimsy!”