1. Donate your surplus. City dwellers in small spaces know the post-holiday routine: Assess the mound of gifts, admit there is not room for them, decide what to recycle or give away, repeat. 2. Do a safety check. Now that the heat is cranking all the time, it’s a good idea to test the batteries on your
MoreIllustration by Corey Schumann 1. Be on the lookout for magnolia blooms In the middle of the month, those spectacular Southern blooms will be out for a short time. You can see a particularly large specimen in West Philadelphia’s Clark Park. 2. Prune your woody plantsNow is the time to cut back your roses and
MoreIllustration by Nicholas Massarelli 1. Get ready for daylight saving time March 12 is coming before you know it, so instead of getting hit all at once with an hourless of sleep, make the transition slowly. 2. Spend a day at a museumThere are hidden treasures all around Philadelphia that will get you out of
MoreIllustration by Kailey Whitman 1. Recycle your tree and wreaths There’s no reason to send holiday decorations to the landfill. Drop off trees at city sanitation centers from Jan. 2 through Jan. 14, or find a neighborhood program like Greenlimbs. 2. Program the thermostatIn addition to saving energy, using a programmable thermostat can help you
MoreIllustration by Chris Bernhardt 1. Cope with the election If you’re concerned about November’s election results, volunteer time or donate to organizations that reflect your values. Voting is one day—the real work begins now. 2. Donate winter clothingAs cold weather sets in, clothing drives and shelters will be grateful to receive garmentsfrom the back of
MoreIllustration by Julia Tran 1. Break out the blankets Put an extra blanket or two on your bed, and keep one near the couch. You’ll save money and energy if you’re not defaulting to cranking up the heat when the chill sets in. 2. Plant your spring bulbsYou still have a little time to get
MoreIllustration by Kailey Whitman 1. Go for a walk in the woods It will be prime time this month for the colors to be ablaze in Philadelphia’s many acres of parks and woodlands. See the show up close and breathe in the fall. 2. Register to vote!It’s your last chance to make sure that your
MoreIllustration by Julia Tran 1. Check on your weather strippingThe better doors and windows are sealed, the longer it will be before you have to resort to turning on the heat. It’s low-cost and easy to install, whether you rent or own. 2. Get your heating system servicedWe all have that moment on the first
MoreIllustration by Chris Bernhardt 1. Collect your collards and okraStart harvesting some of those great plants you put into the ground—August is the start of when collards and okra should hit your plate. 2. Check A/C drainsAfter working hard all summer, your air conditioning drainage lines can clog. Make sure they’re functioning properly so you
More1. Enjoy the early sunriseIf you run or go to the gym after work when the weather is cool, consider getting up early to beat the heat and still keep your fitness goals. 2. Change your water filtersYou’ll probably be drinking more water during the summer months, so if you’re using a water filter, make
More1. Commit to walking to work once a week In between the chilly May mornings and the dog days of August, it’s perfect walking weather. Pick a different route each time to take in the scenery and new shops. 2. Cool the kids down with fun Whether it’s the neighborhood ice cream truck or Rita’s
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