A New Year, an Organized Sock Drawer

Here we are, at the very beginning of 2025. What will the year hold for us? I decided to set a low bar to avoid disappointment. But, if my sock drawer is any indication of future events, 2025 will be tolerable.

Did you know that the earliest known socks date back to around the 8th century BC, when the Ancient Greeks wore socks called "piloi," made from matted animal hair?

My mom always purchased more than one pair of the same style and color socks. In theory, when a hole appeared in one, you'd still have a pair. In reality, though, one sock always ends up alone until another one gets a hole.

What does your sock drawer look like? Who knew there were so many ways to store socks?

By Color: Arrange socks by color to make it easy to find matching pairs.

By Type: Separate dress socks, athletic socks, and casual socks for quick access.

By Season: Keep lightweight socks for warmer months and thicker socks for colder ones.

Using Dividers: Use drawer dividers or small bins to keep pairs neatly separated.

Rolling Socks: Roll socks into tight balls and line them up for a tidy look.

Filing System: Stand socks upright like files in a cabinet, making it easy to see each pair.

Marie Kondo Method: Fold socks and stack them vertically so you can see all pairs at a glance.

Drawer Organizers: Use store-bought or DIY organizers to keep socks in specific compartments.

Labeling: Label sections of the drawer for different types of socks or family members.

Hanging Organizer: Use a hanging shoe or pocket organizer to store socks outside the drawer.

Every now and then I empty the sock drawer and match up my socks--a ritual I am sure was not practiced by the Ancient Greeks. Today's sock challenge left only three without a mate. Most likely at least one of the missing will reappear the next time I shake out a bed sheet or slip a sweatshirt over my head. Where socks go remains one of the great mysteries. I'd like to imagine the Ancient Greeks searching for missing socks in the public baths, around the fire hearths, or under cots.

Having only three strays is a huge improvement over last year and I will consider it an omen of good things to come.

In November I shared high intentions of redesigning my website through another provider. I've been using WIX which is incredibly user-friendly (but costly). WIX also allows me to edit, and not having to pay someone for each addition or change is a huge selling point. I have a yearly subscription with WIX that won't expire until summer and canceling it now, won't benefit me. I've looked at several plans. I don't have the energy or mind power to dive into the project with the same gusto I had back in 2020.

Rather than deal with a different website provider, I've focused on finishing the new version of Calico Lane. Jason has worked tirelessly with me on the design. I'm excited about the fresh cover look AND what I hope will be eye-catching, empowering, and fun for readers of all ages.

Since its release in 2022, readers have asked about some of the people in the book. Another exciting change for this version is the inclusion of photographs. Family photos won't be the only ones featured. Snapshots of a few surprising images will catch your eye. I hope this makes Calico Lane feel more intimate for those who don't know anything about me. Copies can be ordered after January 7th from Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0578340836

and signed copies directly from me through the contact form on my website.

Except for minor edits/corrections, the interior text/story has not changed in the 2025 version. And, if anyone you know would prefer a copy of the original---with the photographed Lane entrance on the cover---let me know. I will have some on hand until the inventory is depleted.

For 2025, I wish you good health, boundless happiness, abundant peace, and a sock drawer that brings you pride!

Best always,

Judy