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

February 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.

  • Create a puzzle Valentine. Make a (free) homemade valentine for your loved one. Head to puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com to create a crossword that incorporates words and clues from your relationship. Example: 3 Down: What you hate to take out. Answer: Garbage.
  • Make a deliciously filling 400-calorie (or less) dinner. Satisfying low-calorie meals that are ready in an hour or less? Easy. The hard part is choosing which of these recipes—including Roasted Shrimp With Peppers and Lemon, and Steak With Golden Zucchini—to make tonight.

    Related: A Month of 400-Calorie Dinners

  • Tame your brows. To get a full, natural shape, follow this foolproof three-step method: Shape the inner edges, create an arch, then even out and refine.

    Related: Tame Your Brows Now

  • Relieve stress in minutes. Fight fatigue and anxiety with this easy-to-do-anywhere walking meditation: Inhale as you take four steps, then exhale for four steps. Repeat for at least three minutes (the longer, the better). Work up to six to eight steps per inhale and exhale.

    Related: 3 Quick Ways to Relieve Stress

  • Speed-clean your bathroom. First, drop two Alka-Seltzer tablets into the toilet bowl. While the bubbles do their magic, stash odds and ends (brushes, hair dryer) in drawers or a pretty basket. Then, with a damp microfiber cloth, swipe cobwebs from ceiling corners and dust door frames, tile ledges, moldings, and shelves. Spray mirrors with glass cleaner and rub in circles with the cloth.

    Related: Speed-Clean Your Bathroom 

  • Save on fitness gear. A new pair of sneakers may provide all the motivation you need to stick to your workout plan. This month, take advantage of the exclusive discounts offered to Real Simple readers on New Balance sneakers, a Barefoot Environmental yoga mat, and more.

    Related: Workout Essentials: Exclusive Savings for RS Readers

  • Revive dull skin. Try this expert trick: Rub a freshly cut lemon half over your face (the fruit’s natural acids remove flakes and smooth skin), then steam your skin over a pot of hot water. Finally, slather on a dense emollient and coat lips with balm.

    Related: The Pros’ Guide to Pampering

  • Get a great deal on furniture. Shop the sales for pieces at 30 to 60 percent off regular prices.

    Related: Insiders’ Guide to Home Décor Websites

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