Every New Year’s Day, the first thing I do is open The Washington Post and read The List, a comparative account of what’s Out and what’s In in the new year. Other papers around the country may publish something similar, but the Post tends to include a few inside-the-Beltway references.
What always strikes me is that I didn’t know so many things were In until they were already Out. Brussels sprouts, for example. Conversely, I am amused to read what’s now In that was already In for me. For example, IHOP is now In. I celebrated my birthday there (by choice) two weeks ago.
Sorry, Betty White, you’ve been replaced by Anne Meara. I’m just glad you’re both enjoying your due glory.
I’ve jotted down a few personal Ins and Outs:
| OUT | IN |
| Two spaces after a period | One space after a period |
| Oxford comma | No comma |
| Hot house | Central air conditioning |
| Goose bumps | Hot flashes |
| Real Housewives of anywhere | Hot in Cleveland |
| Coffee, alcohol, chocolate, garlic, onions, tomatoes, fried foods, and late night snacking | Hot water and Dexilant happy hours |
| Zicam | Webcam |
| Pandora jewelry | Pandora radio |
What’s Out and In for you in 2011?
Happy New Year.
Word Nymph 