This time of year, I find myself wanting to make a few changes around the house without spending much money.

The January itch to declutter and rearrange stuff has now spilled over into February. I bought a new plant for the fireplace mantel. I polished and organized my earrings. Now my earrings shine, and I feel as if my pierced earlobes have a new wardrobe.

I straightened out a few drawers and made my daughter try on some clothes to see if she has outgrown any of them.

OK, I’m driving my family crazy. But it’s not just me. I recently noticed new caulking in the shower, and I know the dog didn’t do it.

This is a great time of year to get all those little things done.

When else am I going to shop for a new shade for a lamp in the living room? In May when we should be scrubbing outdoor furniture or cleaning out the garage?

According to the March issue of ShopSmart, Consumer Reports’ shopping magazine, I am right on track!

A new shade can update a tired old lamp, and it’s an easy, inexpensive way to give a room an unexpected pop of color, pattern or texture, HGTV’s Vern Yip told the magazine.

And, yes, I will take the lamp base with me when I finally find some time to shop for a new shade. I want the perfect fit.

Organizing pros often say this is a good time of year to go through your bookcases and recycle, donate or toss items you no longer use, need or enjoy.

Years ago, I learned one handy tip for doing so: Declutter bookshelves by removing knickknacks from the front of the shelves and pulling the books – including those in horizontal stacks – close to the edge.

Instant neatness. You probably have your own February “to-do” list, but here are some other tips and ideas you might consider:

Now that the holidays are behind us, freshen up your candle arrangements.

This time of year, I bring out my crystal or glass candle-holders. I like how they sparkle. And I’m partial to white or ivory candles. It’s just me.

Prepare for mud season. Invest in or haul out some durable mats, carpet runners, whatever it takes. Gather up rags or old bath towels for wiping down soggy dogs with muddy paws. Keep these designated dog towels near the entrance doors, within easy reach.

Everyone knows what a new toss pillow or two can do to freshen up a room, but here is one tip I recently came across: If you want to pump up a neutral decor, add some pillows in bright colors. If you want to tone down a bold room, go for neutral pillows.

Designate a drawer for pencils, scissors, etc., and keep it organized with dividers. I did this a couple of years ago in our kitchen, and what a difference it has made.

I measured the inside of the drawer, decided what should be stored there and bought some inexpensive modular organizers in various shapes. Now whenever anyone is looking for a roll of tape, they know where to look.

It’s even scented! How so?

Someone –and she knows who she is –has been known to stash such things as fruit-flavored gum in there.

No wonder the pencil erasers smell like mangoes!