Clean

DEEP-CLEAN BOOKSHELVES

On a wintry weekend when you’re stuck indoors, devote a couple hours to straightening your bookshelves. Begin by removing all volumes and other objects from the shelves, and placing them on a drop cloth or old sheet on the floor. Wipe the shelves with a damp cloth or a dry paintbrush; then, holding books by their spines, gently fan out the pages to remove any dust trapped inside. Vacuum the shelves with the brush-tool attachment. Before returning books to their proper home, sort the titles by author or as desired, such as by subject or by color. Donate anything you no longer want, or share with friends. Deep-clean your bookshelves at least twice a year; ideally, incorporate it into your weekly vacuuming routine once each season.

Garden

prune trees

When the coldest weather has passed, thin the branches, cut away dead or diseased wood, and shape what’s left—this will encourage vigorous growth in spring.

1. Use a sharp saw for clean cuts, and be sure to wear gloves. Cut one-third of the way into the branch you want to remove from underneath, about a foot from the trunk.

2. Next, taking care to stand clear, saw away from the tree trunk, starting about an inch to the right of the first cut, to remove the branch.

3. Don’t leave any stubs: Remove the remainder of the branch just next to the joint; stand clear for safety.