8 Things to Do Over Labor Day Weekend

Next weekend is Labor Day weekend, the last 3-day holiday of the summer season.  If you don’t have plans to hit the road and travel, there are a lot of thing to take care of at home, giving you a had start of fall projects.

Clean out your closet – Star listed some great tips about how to clean and organize your closet, and a long weekend sounds like a good time to tackle the project.  I’m embarrassed to admit just how out of control my closets are right now.  I have two walk-in closets, and they are in need of some serious attention.  There will be lots of bags going to charity.

Get rid of old products – Take a look through your makeup drawers and do a similar sorting as you do with your closet.  Toss anything that’s broken and crumbly, smells off, was a mistake to buy in the first place, or, in the case of mascara, if you can’t remember when you bought it.  What will be left are the things that you love and use, along with some samples that you’ve probably picked up.  Now you’ll know what your running low on, as well having room to try some new products or colors.

Clothing storage – Put summer things away (if the weather has already changed) or get them ready.  Bring out the fall/winter clothing, and check everything over before it goes in the closet.  If you did the work when it went to storage, there shouldn’t be anything that needs laundering or mending, but if you skimped on that, take the time to do in now.  And promise that you’ll get your summer things in order before putting them into storage.

Organize your giveaways – Whether it’s going to a friend or family member, or being sent off a clothing bank or charity of your choice, set up some bags or boxes so that you can start dropping things in it.  Since it might take you awhile to complete the organization process, be prepared to have them hang around a bit until you’re finished.  If the clutter bothers you, drop them off as you fill a bag or box.

Clean your shoes and bags – It’s easy to put this off while you’re busy with day to day life, but take advantage of a little extra time to really take a look at everything.  Do your shoes need a shine or a repair?  If a pair you love is looking a little sad, talk with a cobbler to see if re-soling them can give you a little more life.  I did this numerous times with a classic pair, and finally the cobbler had to say no more – I had completely worn them out.  Fix bag straps, replace hardware, get rips stitched up.

Make lists – As your getting everything organize, you’ll undoubtedly come across ideas for things that you’re missing, have run out of, or ideas about how to make the most of what you have.  Create some lists for yourself, such as, things to buy, products to check out, items you’re running low on and need to replace, etc.  Look for ideas where one item will coordinate with a number of things, extending your wardrobe in any number of different ways.

Recycle your magazines – If these have stacked up over the summer, it’s time to recycle them.  Tear out articles or photos that are of interest, and recycle the rest.  If the magazines haven’t been torn up, maybe because you’ve been too busy to read, just accept that you’re not going to get to them and pass them on.  A women’s shelter, doctor or dentist office may love to have them.

Relax a little – After all this organizational work, make sure you take time for yourself.  Have a bubble bath, read a book, enjoy a great meal, or a glass of wine.  You’re off to a great fall season!

Photo credit: SXC