Do you have a huge stash of soy sauce packets from Chinese food takeout in your kitchen drawer? Here's the good news: They are still good to use and enjoy, because soy sauce does not expire. While very old soy sauce may not be as fresh, these packets can still be used to make a marinade, add salty flavor to a savory dish and even give a little zest to a bowl of soup. The same tip also goes for mustard and vinegar packets, as these ingredients have a very long shelf life, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have old furniture you want to replace in your home, don't think landfill or donating to charity are your only options. Many local auction houses will come to your home, assess your furniture and sell it for you, taking a small cut of the sale price. Auction houses aren't just for pricey masterpieces and antiques; they sell all sorts of things, ranging from furniture to decorative accessories to tableware and more. Check your local listings and see if your old stuff is worth some cash.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Spring is a great time to go around the yard and prep things that are important to keep birds in tiptop shape. Take a look at your bird feeder: Does it have any old, moldy seed, and is the feeder dirty? Give it a good clean in hot soapy water, allow it to fully dry, and fill it with clean seed. The same goes for a bird bath: The bath should be cleaned every two to three weeks and be constantly refreshed with fresh water. And finally, let your windows go without a squeaky-clean finish –- a little dirt is sometimes the only signal a bird needs to avoid crashing into the glass.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION