photo by erin.kkr
Pasta salads are classic dishes for spring and summer. Their vibrant colors, numerous flavor combinations and scalability make them a hit for family and friends. They’re easy to make ahead of time and with ingredients you have on hand. To give your pasta salad added appeal, experiment with fresh herbs, cheeses, interesting pasta shapes and roasted vegetables. And don’t overcook the pasta. Cook it al dente, and give …

photo by seanmcgrath
DEAR SARA: How do you clean a flat-screen monitor? I could use glass cleaner on my old glass screen, but what do I use on this one? — Dee, New York
DEAR DEE: I use a microfiber cloth. Flannel works well, too. Dampen the cloth with either water or water diluted with vinegar or isopropyl alcohol. To prevent damage, don’t press hard or spray product directly on the screen. …

Gardening tips are my favorite. The first tip is a terrific way to haul your garden tools and a great second use for a household item. Just think, you don’t have to go running back to the garage or shed for a forgotten tool. With garage-sale season under way, you can keep your eyes open for a cheap used caddy.
MULTIPURPOSE CADDY: I have an old golf caddy, the kind with …

photo by Mark Strozier
Money doesn’t buy happiness. If you take a look around, you’ll discover that there are joyful benefits to the recession. Not simply monetary opportunities in real estate, airfare, cheap stocks or from businesses struggling and discounting prices or liquidating and going under but in your personal life. It’s an involuntary pause in your pursuit of happiness. It gives you much needed time to reflect, create new goals, …