Wow! Now that the walls are clean, you can see that the baseboards, doors and moldings are quite dirty. Clean the woodwork with a bucket of water and a bit of Murphy’s Oil soap to add a real sparkle to your rooms. Consider renting a buffing machine to put a shine on your wood floors. Get the carpets cleaned or buy some bright scatter rugs to add a touch of color.

If you’ve moved the furniture to get your cleaning done, think about putting it back differently. Rearranging your furniture, eliminating or adding one of two pieces, can give your room a whole new feel.

This is also a good time to go through your closets and drawers and get rid of any clothes you haven’t worn in the last three years. There’s nothing more satisfying than hauling some big garbage bags filled with clothes you no longer need or want to Goodwill or the Salvation Army — and you get a tax break! More expensive clothes in good shape can be brought to a consignment shop. How about putting a shelving unit into your closet to utilize the space to maximum effect?

Now that the heavy housework is done, have some fun. Pick up some new linens for your beds, wash them in detergent meant for baby clothes, and hang them outside to dry. You’ll love the clean sweet smell. New guest towels and fancy soaps can add pizzazz to bathrooms. Get a head start on your vegetable garden — and bring new life to your kitchen — by starting your tomatoes and peppers in bright ceramic pots on a windowsill or a sunny counter top. And a new tablecloth (or a new dining set!) will make it easier to eat the right foods so you fit into the swimsuit you’ll be wearing all too soon!