11/10/11

Sharp knives in the kitchen can make all the difference when cooking. But if your knives are dull and you don't have a knife sharpener, what to do? Turn over a clean terra cotta pot and run the blade on its side across the pot several times as if it was a sharpener. It'll sharpen the knives right up and you'll slice and dice like a pro.

11/9/11

There are two easy ways to cut back on junk mail being sent to you. One is to make sure your home phone number is listed as private and not in the book; a public listing means your information is available to anyone. Second, whenever your information is requested over the Internet, on the phone or in a store, always be sure to ask that your information not be solicited after sharing it, or don't share it all.

11/8/11

A properly working fireplace is key for energy efficiency and safety in your home. If you're agile enough, one way to inspect your fireplace is to lay down a medium-size mirror at the base of the fireplace inside the home and then go on the roof and look down the chimney with a flashlight. You should see the light reflect. Of course, if you are fearful of heights, leave it to the pros and have them inspect, clean and sweep out your chimney annually.