This month we have tips to help you start your new year off right with money saving tips and links to websites for do-it-yourself projects.

• PET OWNERS:  Did you get that new puppy or kitten for the holidays?  Housebreaking a young pet during the winter months can be difficult.  Check out the following site for tips on how to remove any stain your new best friend can leave behind. http://chicagotribune.com/leisure/homegarden/ws/item/0,1267,12220-12259-12252,00.html

• REFRIGERATOR CONDENSER COIL CLEANING:  Cleaning the condensing coils will improve effieciency, shorten running time,save energy and extend the life of the compressor. Condenser coils, located on the back of the refrigerator or at the bottom in front of the compressor, should be cleaned three to four times a year, more frequently if you have a shedding pet.  Vacuum condenser coils with the crevice tool attachment and hose on a vacuum cleaner.  If the condenser coils are under the appliance, remove the toe plate to reach the coils. Make sure not to bend the condenser tubing or push other items such as paper back into the condenser fan.  For more information see: http://popularmechanics.com/popmech/homei/9501HIHIBM.html

• JUMP STARTING YOUR CAR:  Did you leave the lights on overnight or is it just too cold for your battery to start?  Here are step by step instructions on how to jump start your car.  Print this and keep it in the glove compartment for future reference.

                    http://209.24.233.206/05/0508/0508.html

• FOR THE SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS...SKIS:  If you are looking for new or used skis, try these sites.

NEW SKIS:  http://209.24.233.206/05/0586/0586.html
USED SKIS:  http://209.24.233.206/05/0561/0561.html
 

  WINTER WEATHER AWARENESS:  Check this site for tips on winter safety.
                   http://www.santel.net/winter1.html
 

Be sure to visit this site again in February, and if this is your first visit to our page check our back issues.