January is National Radon Awareness Month. You can be sure your home is safe from this odorless gas by conducting a 90-day test with a $15 kit from a hardware store or a $5 version from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. If you are buying a home, a two-day test should be conducted by a licensed measurement specialist before closing the deal. If radon is found, it can take anywhere from $700 to $3,000 to correct the problem, says Dick Thiele of Market Property Inspection. You'll want to negatiate the purchse price accordingly.

Clean those remotes and video-game controls! Because they are constantly handled, they harbor as many germs as a kitchen sponge. Disinfect the devices (along with computer keyboards) once a week with a disinfecting wipe. Swab around the buttons with a fresh eye-shadow applicator dipped in rubbing alcohol.

While you're making those New Year's resolutions of eat healthier and excercise more, add one to strengthen your bonds with family and friends. Better Homes and Gardens suggests making a pact with yourself to invite friends over once a month for a potluck meal and to blog about the fun you have together. Include photos and recipes and encourage your friends to comment on your posts.