If you have leftover cheese, the good news is that you can freeze it and use it later. But most cheeses do not freeze well, and freezing them can result in a separation of the water and oils, turning a thawed-out cheese into one that’s more chalky than creamy. So why do it? Because a thawed-out frozen cheese can be heated up and used as the perfect ingredient to make a cheesy dip, a macaroni and cheese or anything that calls for a rich, melted cheese. Just be sure to thaw it out completely before using.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Plants need light for photosynthesis, and to thrive and be healthy over time. You might think placing a plant near a lamp is just as good as placing it near a sunny window, but the reality is sunlight has red and blue spectra light, which is what plants need most to grow. Traditional lightbulbs lack the spectra light plants need, and while “full spectrum” lights are available in lightbulb form, they are expensive and use energy to work. Why buy special bulbs? Use free sunlight instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you’re an avid composter, it may seem like a no-brainer to toss avocado skin and pits into the compost bin. And why not? They’re totally organic and biodegradable. But the reality is avocado waste is very slow to decompose and can ruin your compost if you have too much rind in the mix. If you want to compost it, cut the peels into small strips or squares. And for something adventurous, toss a pit into rich, finished compost. It actually could grow into a mini avocado tree.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION