Featured in December 2012

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Thoughts, p. 12

The Simple List, p. 16

Editor’s Note, p. 29

Your Words

• This Month’s Question, p. 33
  What is the most thoughtful hostess gift you’ve ever received?
• No-Obligation Book Club, p. 36
  Five reads to curl up with this winter

Holiday Gift Guide

• 50+ Gifts Under $50, p. 39
• Stocking Stuffers Under $15, p. 80

 

Life Lessons

• Good Read, p. 89
  Author Caroline Leavitt reveals the unusual places where she found comfort after the death of her fiancé
• Modern Manners, p. 95
  Catherine Newman on how to deal with friends who give pricey presents
• Expertise, p. 99
  Five ways to jump-start a conversation
  
  

The Guide

Fashion

• Real Steals, p. 107
  Stylish wintry white items for $100 or less

Beauty

• Pretty Smart, p. 119
  The latest beauty products and tips that save time, money, and your sanity
• Road Test, p. 125
  Face masks

Health

• The Decoder, p. 131
  Hangover remedies

Home 

• Sparkling Service, p. 135
  Knockout platters and punch bowls that will serve you well
• Road Test, p. 138
  Folding chairs

Money

• The Giving Guide, p. 143
  Thinking about making a charitable donation? Here’s how to vet the options. Plus, 10 organizations that Real Simple loves

 

Features

• How to Have a Harmonious Holiday, p. 156
  All you need to handle this season’s most stressful tasks, from choosing a tree to hosting overnight guests
• Go Big or Go Home, p. 168
  Indulge a little: bold and beautiful party looks
• All I Want for Christmas, p. 172
  Five writers reveal the out-of-the-box gifts that would make their holidays extra jolly
• Ornament Express, p. 178
  A single piece of statement jewelry gives an outfit instant glitz

 

Food

• Platters & Punches, p. 194 
  Prep-ahead drinks and snacks that are deliciously festive (but not at all fussy)
• Holiday Spectacular, p. 195 
  Deceptively easy cookie-decorating ideas
• Things Cooks Know, p. 200
  Holiday baking strategies, techniques, and tips
• Quick Takes, p. 202
  10 ideas for delicious DIY gifts
• Five Easy Dinners, p. 205
• Nutritional Index, p. 216 

 

 

Credits, p. 218
Where to buy products featured in this issue

Discounts & Deals, p. 226 
Exclusive savings on personalized gifts

Clip and Save: Real Simple to Go, p. 228