I got a new winter parka a few months ago, and I love it. Unlike my previous parka, it is made with synthetic stuffing. But it’s very comfy and warm, and has pockets big enough for my gloves and my iPhone. It’s also teal green, which makes me happy. Too many people in NYC wear black jackets in the winter, making the dark, bleak season even darker.
Getting a new parka made me take a closer look at my entryway closet. I switch up my outerwear every time the temperature drops 10 degrees. So I have a favorite jacket to wear in the 40s (and below), 50s, 60s, 70’s, and even a very light one to bring along when it’s in the 80s because I’ll be going into the excessively air-conditioned subway.
Since I have my favorites, there are some jackets or coats that get worn very infrequently, or not at all. Adding one more puffy parka to my closet is pushing me to get rid of those unworn jackets. This is a great time of year to donate winter coats that you no longer wear. Here in New York City, we have a seasonal coat drive called New York Cares, with drop-off locations all around town.
I’ve picked out 2 winter parkas and 2 fall/spring jackets that are going to leave my home this week and be dropped off at the coat drive location two blocks away. I even washed my old down parka for the first time in anticipation of giving it away. (Thanks to my on-line research, it came out great.)
Take a look at your coat closet and make sure that you are wearing all of your coats and jackets. If not, make someone happy by giving some away. Even if you don’t have a local coat drive, take them to the nearest thrift shop. This is the time of year to get those coats into the hands of people who need them.
While you are at it, look at your hats, scarves, and gloves. I bet there are some of those that you never wear. Giving those away now will make it easier for you to find the ones that you do wear. And your life will be simpler this winter because you won’t have to face a myriad of choices every day.
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