9/23/09

Because of the conflicting reports concerning the dangers of nonstick cooking pans, which contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a possible carcinogen, consider choosing a long-lasting alternative: cast-iron. While the health risks associated with cooking with nonstick pans are still being debated, why take chances? Cast-iron pans are easy to cook with, durable and can be used on the stove and inside the oven. Cast-iron pans even add iron to the food cooked in the pan. Flea markets and your mother's attic may also turn up a treasure trove of vintage cookware, too.

9/22/09

As the leaves change color, clip a few branches and put them in a bucket of water. Add a small bottle of glycerin (from the drugstore) and let the branches soak up the solution in a cool, dark place for a few days (a closet works great). The glycerin mixture will preserve the leaves. Display the branches or use the leaves as instant, nature-inspired gift tags all fall and winter long.

9/21/09

If guests are coming over for dinner and there's a lingering smell in the air that you just don't have time to get rid of, let a fashion magazine come to the rescue. Rip out a few of the scent strip advertisements and place them on a warm surface, like a radiator. The heat will release the scent into the air, covering whatever odor there might be.