photo by Durgan Food is something you might take for granted. As a country, we’re fortunate. But if you’ve ever gone through a weather emergency or financial hardship, you know you aren’t as immune to a food shortage as you’d like to think. If you’ve ever participated in Scouts, you might have learned a bit [...]
photo by biskuit Beef is versatile and economical. You’ll discover many steakhouse cuts at lower prices at the market. Check your local stores, and stock up for the grilling season. If you’re bored with the same old pot roast or meatloaf, you’ll enjoy the following beef recipes for their simple ingredients and ease of preparation. [...]
DEAR SARA: Where do you find washing soda? I can find Borax almost everywhere, but I have never seen washing soda. — Cheryl, Ohio DEAR CHERYL: Super washing soda is made by Arm & Hammer. It can usually be found in the laundry aisle of your grocery store. Check hardware stores, discount department stores, drugstores [...]
Clothes are expensive. The first reader tip shares a way to make them last longer. Follow the fabric labels for proper care instructions.
I also suggest:
– Use the gentle cycle when possible.
– Put on an apron or older clothes when cooking to prevent stains. And if you do get a stain, address it as soon as possible.
– Change out of work clothes when you get home so there’s less wear on your good clothes.
– Zip up zippers, and close any Velcro fasteners to prevent snags and pulls.
– Entirely or partially air-dry clothes.
photo by timparkinson Are you an emotional spender? Often, a trigger can lead many of us into a shopping spree for things we don’t need. Maybe you feel incredibly happy while buying. But the joy is temporary. You get home, and the guilt and anxiety sets in. Identifying your emotional triggers can help you confront [...]
photo by madaise Frugality helps you seek out ways to save. You look at your daily habits to find any money leaks. Some frugal choices are typical, such as using plastic grocery bags to line trash cans, keeping a change jar, or buying clothing on sale. But some aren’t as common and might appear too [...]
Mother’s Day traditions often include a meal out. You don’t want mom to have to think about cooking, and you want to pamper her on her special day. Showing you care doesn’t have to be a large expense. This year, instead of a crowded restaurant, family members can chip in and prepare a special meal [...]
photo by saebaryo DEAR SARA: I am considering getting a sandbox for the kids to play in. I was wondering if you had one, how you keep the neighborhood cats out. — Rachel, Texas DEAR RACHEL: You can use a tarp, but it will collect rainwater. To combat water collection, you can place a tall [...]
photo by yanec Americans overpay for many products and services. Often, it can be justified by the fact that your enjoyment outweighs the money spent. But what if there are cheaper alternatives? And what if these options are almost or equally as good? You can save money. What do you overpay for? Here are a [...]
photo by manel In a previous column, I mentioned using up an abundance of oranges. The tips started pouring in for ways to use orange peels. The first tip is a natural way to keep mischievous felines away. It can work outdoors in the garden, too. DETER CATS: Cats hate the smell of citrus. I’ve [...]
photo by jeff mcneill Families are redefining fun. Many are staying home more often. Some are canceling summer camps, too. That leaves a lot of hours to fill to combat boredom. Your community offers many free activities. You can often find where to go and what to do on the bulletin board at your local [...]
photo by nttrbx Salads are a delicious way to use healthful ingredients. They’re tasty year-round, but are most appetizing as lighter fare during warmer months. They can be tossed together quickly and enjoyed as a side or main dish. Break away from your regular dinner routine and outsmart your appetite with the following recipes. Creamy [...]
Have you ever had bits of potato chips, cereal or pretzels left over after a night of munching? Maybe the chips have been pulverized into crumbs or are partially stale, or there isn’t enough cereal for a full serving. There’s no need to toss the foods or feed them to the birds. Put them to [...]
photo by EraPhernalia Vintage Peas are a summer favorite. They’re delicious steamed with mint, parsley, lemon, marjoram, rosemary or thyme. When selecting them, check for firmness and look for peas that are shiny and bright green. They should be eaten as soon as possible to get the most nutrients. But if you need to store [...]
photo by mykl roventine No television. Does it seem possible? Many people are downgrading their TV channel packages or completely terminating TV services. Sure, there are options, such as watching shows on Hulu or renting from Netflix or Redbox. But what about temporarily or permanently cutting out all TV viewing? How did we ever get [...]
DEAR SARA: I asked my mother-in-law what my sister-in-law might like for her upcoming birthday. She told me she wanted a Mary Ann pan. I was too embarrassed to ask what it is. What is it? — Becky Cody, Kansas
photo by sassy gardener First impressions are important when trying to sell your home. Extreme changes aren’t always necessary. There are simple steps you can take to prepare your house for the market while staying within a reasonable budget. The interior plays a big role, but don’t ignore exterior modifications, such as fresh lightbulbs, an [...]
