Spring Cleaning, Monte's Way

03/13/2012

It's a sunny 70 degrees today in my D.C. neighborhood. Even if you're still wearing boots and a sweater, you can get mentally prepared for spring cleaning!

Spring cleaning is something I look forward to each year. This season is all about rejuvenation and shedding layers, so you need to feel good about what's underneath the coat and scarf.

I organize my spring cleaning into three categories: house, closet and body.

Start getting ready for longer, brighter days by giving your house a thorough cleaning. Same goes for your car -- you'll really enjoy driving in the sunshine with the windows down if your interior is spotless.

Now, I like to pare down my closet and dresser drawers. I make piles for things I love, items to give away, and the clothes and shoes I'm just not sure about. As you're sorting through old styles, it's a perfect time to put heavy clothes away for winter and to pull pieces that need resuscitation. Shoes need to be polished or have heel protectors added, or perhaps you've got a belt with great hardware that could use a new leather strap. You'll feel so much better if you get these pieces ready now for the next season, and when you empty out your closet of things you no longer wear, you have space for new spring acquisitions!

After your cleaning and hard work are done, it's time to focus on you. You've got no excuse not to -- the dust bunnies have been swept up, and there's room for sandals on the shoe rack. Why not try a light cleanse? I don't advocate anything extreme, but aim to drink more water, give up aged cheeses and alcohol for a week, and eat totally fresh food. Don't open a bag, package or can all week! Fresh fruit and veggies are everywhere at the market, so eat up!

While you're adding more color to your plate, add some to your face, hands and feet. Try petal pink or tulip purple on your nails. Commit to wearing some color on your mouth -- it will change your whole look! Skip sticky glosses and choose a pink or nude lipstick. One more trick that will give your face a boost is reshaping your eyebrows.

Spring has sprung, ladies. Let's welcome it with open arms!

Photo: Dennis Hallinan/Getty Images

Comments

[kim giammaria]

Well said Monte! I have been doing a bit of spring cleaning myself.
Honest to goodness I had a dream two nights ago that I asked you to go shopping with me so I could update my look...(long over due).
Keep your good advice coming!
Lots of love my friend!
Kim

[Terri Micetich]

Monte well said. I certainly enjoyed meeting you today at Regan Airport. You are an amazing man very much alive in personality and heart. I was so impressed with your heart for volunteering giving of your precious time. You give the ultimate gift to so many from your show to those who cross your path. You give them the gift of hope and encouragement! Thank you for taking time to talk with me. I will always remember our brief conversation. May God bless you in all your endeavors.

Terri Micetich

[spring cleaning]

I used to do spring cleaning myself but with my new job I really don't have time for this. Last year I hired a company to do the job.