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January 2012 Keep-It-Together Checklist

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  • Start the new year off right. January is the time for fresh starts and resolutions, and this year Real Simple is on your side to help you break bad habits. Whether you want to get rid of clutter, exercise more, or stress less, you’ll find strategies that work for you here.

    Related: What Bad Habit Do You Wish You Could Break?

  • Send thank you notes. Write a sweet note to family and friends to let them know how much you appreciated their generosity during the holidays.

    Related: 6 Holiday Thank-You Notes

  • Protect your skin. These dermatologist-approved products will save your skin from becoming dry and chapped this winter.

    Related: A Dermatologist’s Winter Skin-Care Picks

  • Spruce up your space. Easily add a touch of color to any room, without breaking the bank, by adding an inexpensive area rug.

    Related: Affordable Area Rugs

  • Be nice on the Internet. Join Real Simple in making the commitment to be nice on the Internet. We’re promoting a return to online civility because there’s just too much negativity out there right now.

    Related: Be Nice on the Internet

  • Spend more time as a family. Bond with the little ones while preparing and enjoying a meal together.

    Related: 9 Recipes Kids Can Make

  • Fix it yourself. Winter wardrobe a bit worn? Save time and money with these easy step-by-step instructions for common fashion fixes.

    Related: DIY Fashion Fixes

  • Snack smarter. Whether tempted by hors d’oeuvres at a party or an afternoon snack, use this guide for a list of the best and worst choices.

    Related: The Best and Worst Appetizer Choices

  • Upgrade your curtains. Choosing the right window treatments can really brighten up your space—even in the dead of winter. To make sure you choose the right shades or curtains for your décor, spend time considering fabric, curtain length, and how high above the window they should be hung. Then visit local stores for a great deal on everything from rods and tiebacks to installation.

    Related: Window Treatments 101

  • Kick your takeout habit. Use these practical tips to say goodbye to fast food and hello to healthier, less expensive meals for your family.

    Related: Kicking the Takeout Habit

  • Organize your photos. Take a moment to sort your digital photos so those special moments don’t get lost in a sea of folders on your hard drive.

    Related: Organizing Your Digital Photos

  • Declutter your makeup bag. These dual-sided beauty tools do twice the work, so you can minimize the arsenal of products in your makeup bag.

    Related: 6 Time-Saving Two-in-One Beauty Products

  • Keep the kids entertained. The short, dark winter days tend to lead to a bit of cabin fever. Beat the winter blues and keep the kids happy with downloadable bingo games, easy art projects, fun DIY activities like Make-a-Plate, or an impressive edible aquarium. The icing on the cake? These games and crafts require little clean up, leaving both everyone in good spirits.

    Related: Ideas for Fun Family Activities

  • Get ready faster. A win-win situation, these clever beauty tips help cut down on prep time and will help you look fabulous.

    Related: 5 Beauty Treatments That Will Change Your Life

  • Keep your bar stocked. Keep this list of essentials on hand just in case guests stop by for an impromptu visit.

    Related: How to Stock a Cocktail Bar 

  • Fix comfort food for dinner. Not all satisfying winter meals will throw your New Year’s diet off course. These hearty meals are both healthy and easy to prepare.

    Related: 5 Cool-Weather Dinners

  • Fix a healthy breakfast fast. A homemade breakfast isn’t always feasible when you have to get lunches packed, the kids to school, and yourself to work all before 9 a.m. Luckily, there are some delicious and healthy store-bought options that are sure to satisfy. If you have five minutes, whip up some creamy oatmeal or an egg pocket. For a grab-and-go breakfast, chewy granola bars or prepackaged smoothies will keep you fueled until lunchtime.

    Related: 8 Convenient Breakfasts

  • Plan a family reunion. Set the date for your next family reunion to give relatives ample time to make travel arrangements.

    Related: A Family Reunion Planner

  • Shed some light. Make sure your home has the proper light fixtures in each room with this guide. You’ll be amazed by the difference the right lamp can make.

    Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Lighting

  • Keep in touch. These free sites make it easy to organize and share your favorite memories with friends and family.

    Related: Find the Right Family Social-Networking Site 

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The thin skin under the eyes is prone to dark circles―especially when you don’t get enough sleep. This video demonstrates how to achieve a bright-eyed look.

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