The Great Washing Machine Debate

front load or top load washing machine

Dear Home-Ec 101, What washing machine is better, top or sideload? Signed, Wishy-Washy in Waseca Heather says: Isn’t it fun when someone answers your question with “It depends?” The front-load vs. top-loading washing machine debate has been going on for years, about ten in the US. High-efficiency front loading washing machines hit the mainstream back …

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Weekly Menu Plan #20

Heather says: The last menu plan I posted was back in 2011. I’d like to say that I’ve just been doing them on the sly, but the truth is, I fell off the wagon and never could get back on until I got my life back in order. I know I‘m not the only one …

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Identifying Small Bugs Attracted to Lights

Dear Home-Ec 101, I noticed tiny, tiny insects on my sheer curtains about 3 weeks ago. Then I noticed one or two on my white tissue box holder. I decided to take the lamp shade off to see better and saw ALL these teeny tiny insects sitting under and even on the CFL bulb. I …

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Here is to 2015

Heather says 2014 has been very quiet at Home-Ec101.com; it’s been a year of healing and new beginnings. The year has been about learning what is good enough and what can and can’t be tolerated. Back in April, one of my best friends, who is also my assistant at FeedBlitz, found a lump and began …

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Taken for Granted

Dear Home-Ec 101, I just found your site and love it! So I thought I would ask about something I need advice on. I have 12 year old twins,  a 14 year old son, and a 16 year old daughter. My house is in a constant mess and I’m the only one who cleans at …

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Cooking Is Good for Mental Health?

Heather says: There is a post circulating on Facebook, at least in my circles, that notes a trend among therapists promoting cooking and baking as a part of treatment for depression and anxiety. Please not that I said a part, baking three dozen cookies isn’t going to turn you into Little Suzy Sunshine for more than …

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How Do You Do Everything That Needs to Be Done?

Hi Heather, I don’t recall when I subscribed to your site, but I do recall having found your site at a time when all my children would eat for breakfast was pancakes and I knew there had to be a way to freeze them. Lifesaver! Thank you! But, anyhow, to the point. I know you …

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How Long Should I Cook Chicken Stock?

Dear Home Ec 101, Thank you for making your lovely page about the French and Asian methods of cooking chicken stock. I have a question: If I have a long period of free time, can I cook the stock for longer than four hours. I’ll often have up to seven hours at a time. Is …

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