The first days of 2026 presents many of us with much-needed days off, but they also can be a prelude to how you want the year to proceed. You could start by having or going out for brunch, Parade suggests. You could get started on new financial freedom by creating a household budget, or #organize your closets and #schedule a #donation #pickup with ClothingDonations.org. You could #clean out the refrigerator and pantry and finally get rid of those #holiday leftovers. Or you could binge-watch some TV and work on those personal #resolutions. There’s no wrong answer! #NewYear
Author: Jordank
Editorial Coordinator
The First Day of the Rest of the Year
Welcome to 2026! New Year’s Day can be one of the most festive and fortifying of the year if you do it right. You might treat yourself to a few hours of uninterrupted #relaxation by taking a hot bath or put on some quiet music. You can watch the Rose Parade or take in a few games of college football from the safety of your couch. You might spend a few hours taking down your #Christmas decorations and #organizing them for next #holiday season. Or you might launch an intensive #decluttering detox that extends well into the new year. The choice is up to you: How will you #celebrate? #NewYear
Simplify for a No-Fuss New Year’s Eve
Hosting a New Year’s Eve gathering doesn’t have to be a lot of work, says Real Simple. Limit the drinks menu to one batched cocktail, one non-alcoholic drink, and a Champagne or sparkling wine, for example, to make serving simple and flexible. You can also keep kitchen work to a minimum by having a dessert or appetizer potluck instead of staging a multi-course meal. A lineup of heavy apps and mini-desserts is great for noshing and many can be made well ahead of time, says author Jessie Sierra-Ross, so you won’t have to “play waitstaff” or miss out on socializing with guests. #NewYear
Celebrate New Year’s Eve Your Way
New Year’s Eve is often celebrated with a party to say goodbye to the year that was and kick off the new one in a festive way. If you plan to go out you might dine at a favorite restaurant or see a show, The Pioneer Woman says. Or you might be the kind to host a quiet night of board games or a movie marathon. Whatever the case, the turning of the calendar page often inspires moments of reflection. Think about the lessons and achievements of the past year, set any resolutions you’d like to make, write a note to your future self or populate a vision board of your goals to make 2026 fulfilling. #NewYear
Make Space for Charity This Holiday Season
’Tis the season for #giving! But what will you be giving this year?
There’s nothing inherently wrong with amassing a big pile of gifts under the #Christmas tree. It’s what most Americans have grown to expect over the years, and you might be seen as a spoilsport if you buck consumerism entirely. Everyone likes to open a wrapped #gift!
But also consider making room in your budget and schedule for #charitable #donations this holiday season. It’s a way to share your good fortune with the people and causes that you and yours care about, and even a small #donation can make an impact.
This year is fraught with need. #Charitable organizations worldwide are seeing their funding from the U.S. government dry up. Millions of people are facing food and shelter insecurity every day — overseas and down the street.
Dedicate your dollars to a cause close to your heart. It might be a global concern that feeds people in conflict zones or provides medical care, a nationwide #nonprofit protecting civil liberties or the environment, or the local humane society or food bank.
You can also #donate in another person’s name in lieu of giving some gewgaw that’s destined to wind up in in a landfill. Consider the organizations they value, and give; it’s a particularly good option for a last-minute gift or giving from a distance.
Be sure to pick a charity that uses your donations efficiently. At least 75% of the funds should go to the mission rather than administrative costs, according to Consumer Reports. Check the Charity Navigator to research giving options and charity ratings.
The gift of time is just a valuable. Volunteer at the local homeless or animal shelter. Start a fundraiser for a local charity or a drive to stock the local food pantry. Drop a few toys off for the tots to enjoy. Bring a few treats to the local #veterans’ home.
Speaking of #veterans, there’s an easy way to give that also can help you live a more secure, streamlined and uncluttered life. Bag or box up some of the #clothing and #household items you no longer need and #donate them to ClothingDonations.org.
Whatever you choose, give this #holiday season and throughout the year. For your trouble, you’ll get the good feeling of spreading joy. Happy Holidays from ClothingDonations.org!