| Makeover Tool | Share Slow-Cooker Recipes | Subscribe
|

January 2010 Keep-It-Together Checklist

Notepad with a pencil
Stay calm and in control with Real Simple's easy-to-follow monthly to-do list. Get it delivered to your inbox every month.

  • If you do only one thing this month…beat the post-holiday bloat. Make it your New Year’s resolution to opt for foods high in fiber (apples, peppers, and whole grains, to name a few), exercise (try a 30-minute brisk walk), and get a full night’s rest. These three efforts combined will eliminate excess water and leave you feeling refreshed.
  • Pack your ornaments safely. Store delicate tree decorations in empty apple containers to protect them from bumps and bruises.

    Related: New Uses for Old Things: Holiday Helpers Edition

  • Wash your own greens. Skip packaged fruit and vegetables, like sliced green apples and bagged salad greens. You could save up to 78 percent on your grocery bill.

    Related: Create Your Own Savings Plan

  • Take care of your hair To get glossier, stronger strands, give hair a break from heat styling at least three mornings a week. When you do blast a dryer or use a curler or a flat iron, stick to a medium-high setting and slowly run or roll the tool over each section of hair just once or twice to reduce damage.

    Related: Healthy Hair With Less Hassle

  • Stay warm (and save money). Heat up some chicken soup, wrap yourself in a cozy sweater, and sip some tea—with the help of these Real Simple–exclusive discounts.

    Related: Exclusive Deals on Hibernating Essentials

  • Put dinner on the table in 30 minutes. No time? No problem. Serve Chickpea Pasta With Almonds and Parmesan or Shrimp Scampi With Spinach.

    Related: 5 Easy Dinners in January

  • Check out local attractions. Resist the urge to hibernate indoors. Enter an activity (like “hiking” or “skating”) on Goby.com and the free site will locate relevant activities in your area.

Related Content

How To: Wrap a Present

How to Wrap a Present

Are you one of those people who find the perfect gift but can’t get the wrapping right? Follow the easy method in this video. See how to wrap a gift.

Did we forget anything on this checklist? What would you add?

View Earlier Comments

Check It Off!

Get Real Simple's easy-to-follow monthly to-do list (see a sample).
Advertisement