If the thought of organizing a "swap" party with your friends to exchange old clothes, jewelry, accessories, movies and anything else sounds exhausting, think social media instead. Set up a swap page and invite your close circle of friends, then post updates with things you're willing to get rid of. People can see updates on their computers or smartphones, and they can claim things and swap for something else. This is a great way to find a new home for things that may otherwise get trashed.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you love to decorate your home with natural materials for the holiday season, be careful if you have pets in your home. Poinsettia, holly and mistletoe all have different levels of toxicity that can make your pet sick -- or worse, kill them. Poinsettia leaves are the least toxic, but the plants are often heavily sprayed with pesticides, which can make your pet sick. Holly and mistletoe are incredibly toxic and can cause seizures and death if ingested. It's best to keep those out of the house and to keep poinsettia far away from where your pet can reach them.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

This winter season, if you decide to invest in a snowblower for your home, think electric and not gas. Electric snow removal products are just as good as gasoline-powered ones, but they don't emit any greenhouse gases when being used. There are two options -- cordless and corded -- and either can work, depending on the size of your driveway and sidewalk. Of course, if you have very little to clear, a good manual snow shovel and broom can also do the trick.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION