How to take care of a piano
I have always wanted to learn to play the piano. My papa was a wonderful pianist; he played for the silent movie theaters in New York City. At his apartment, …
Sunscreen dos and don’ts
Beach towel, check. Bathing suit, check. Sunscreen, check. Having learned about the potential dangers of too much sun exposure, most of us are now pretty accustomed to toting sunscreen to …
How to clean your computer screen — safely and successfully
For the longest time, I was afraid to thoroughly clean my computer screen. But I look at the screen for hours a day, so a smudgy, dirty screen is like …
Taking care of your paintbrushes — How to clean them without using toxic solvents
There are good options for naturally cleaning paintbrushes — including those used with latex and chalk paints and those used with oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes. I do a lot …
Gutters — How to clean your house gutters
Is cleaning gutters on your spring to-do list? It’s (still) on mine, and I’m kinda looking forward to it. It’s an outside chore (I’m eager to be outside), it’s doable …
Cut flowers — How to preserve cut flowers for longer-lasting arrangements
During the winter months, I have a small budget dedicated to cut flowers. (In the summer months I mostly grow my own.) Were that budget bigger, I’d have a vase …
How to machine wash stuffed animals
Does your child have a favorite stuffed animal or other stuffed toy that you know better than to replace? (My grandson has stuffed French fries he adores!) Or maybe you …
How to clean and protect jewelry
Whether you like accessorizing every outfit with a carefully chosen array of jewelry or you stick to a basic favorite or two most days, it’s a good idea to know …
Eyeglass care — Cleaning and caring for your prescription or fashion glasses and sunglasses
Are you, like me, often looking through eyeglass lenses that are covered in fingerprints, grime, and smears? (It’s hard to garden or cook or take your glasses off and on …
‘Tis Christmas tree season! — How to choose, put up, and maintain your Christmas tree to keep it green throughout the season
I’m not terribly picky about choosing the perfect Christmas tree at the tree farm each year. As long as it’s healthy and the right size (as big as we can …