October 2011 Keep-It-Together Checklist

Learning to tune out distractions will help you quickly cross even the most tedious tasks off of your to-do list. Do simple things such as regroup with a coffee in the afternoon, make yourself accountable to someone else, and momentarily block electronic interruptions to get everything done on time (and save your sanity).

Nine nutritious meals you can grab while you’re running out the door.

Turn to this guide for learning about where you can save and what's worth splurging on.

Yes, you can be productive even while watching TV.

Updating the hardware on a dresser or a chest of drawers is a quick and easy way to transform a room, no matter your style. Add vintage, contemporary, or traditional knobs or handles to suit your taste and transform the look of a basic piece.

Tidying up your cleaning supplies is a thankless task, but these simple tips will get you organized in no time.

These easy-to-use DIY beauty kits will help you achieve a salon-quality look for less, and all without booking an appointment.

Leave these cards and documents at home; it’ll save you a major headache if your purse is lost or stolen.

Staying on budget doesn’t mean you need to deprive yourself of a few treats here and there. Birthday freebies and perks for members of organizations like AAA will prevent your wallet from thinning too quickly. Environmentally friendly practices such as signing up for paperless billing, using your own coffee mug, and recycling can also win you discounts and perks from certain companies.

Learn what papers you need to keep (and which ones you can toss!) to keep your filing cabinet organized and easy to navigate.

Follow these easy ideas to make your home cozy as the temperatures begin to drop.

Try these simple ideas to make your manicure, hair color, and makeup last longer.

When the seasons change and the temperatures begin to drop, you’re more likely to get sick. In addition to washing your hands regularly, there are several ways to avoid coming down with something. Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating oysters (they’re rich in zinc), and loading up on vitamin D are just a few strategies to keep seasonal illnesses at bay.

Catch the last few apples before the season ends, and use this handy chart to learn more about the different varieties and what each one is best for.

Try these 10 ideas to help those in need without opening your wallet.

Hiding vegetables in kid-friendly foods is a foolproof way to get your kids to gobble up their greens.

Sometimes the tiniest areas of your home hide the biggest messes. Luckily, you can conquer those clusters of clutter easily. Start by creating smart mini-groupings to separate and contain items in your junk drawer, then use paper filers to house important documents on your bookshelves, put together an electronics bin, smartly arrange food storage containers, and set up a gift-wrapping cupboard to keep the disarray at bay.

Getting rid of used electronics not only helps you declutter, but it can pad your wallet too.

With so many means of communication, it’s easy to stay connected with your friends and family—near or far.

Buyer beware. Don’t believe every review you read. Before you purchase major holiday gifts learn how to spot a fake writeup.