Heather Solos 
Dear Home-Ec 101, I like to think that you get what you pay for. I often find this to be true which is why after coming down from my high at a Nordstrom sample sale, I’m a little peeved. You see, my two prized purchases a pair of dark skinny jeans and a fabulous black …
Have you ever wanted to add pockets to a dress or skirt you already own? Learn how.
Dear Home-Ec 101, I have a question about towels. Is there any way to tell when you buy a bath towel (or any towel for that matter) if it will be absorbent? I’ve purchased many 100% cotton towels over the years. Some are absorbent and others repel water as badly as those hideous 100% polyester …
Dear Home-Ec 101, Even though I leave the door open to air dry, my front loader has mildew in the fold of the rubber seal by the door. Do you have a natural way to get rid of it? I just tried running the Tub Clean cycle with 2-3 cups of vinegar, but the mildew …
Heather says: Here on Home-Ec 101 I don’t often talk about parenting, even though we have four kids in our family -my stepdaughter + our three. I feel that parenting is an intensely personal experience, and I tend to shy away from offering advice. It’s so nuanced that what works for me and my children may …
Dear Home-Ec 101,I got my favorite pair of shoes wet last week, and now they stink to high heaven. Is there anything I can do to save these shoes?Signed,Smelly in Smyrna Heather says: I’m going to let you in on a secret. Last week was not the first time your shoes have gotten wet. Sure, …
Dear Home-Ec 101, My very nice, very expensive stainless steel Mikasa silverware is picking up rust spots. I know it’s not rusting, because it’s stainless, and the spots appear to be surface. How do I get rid of the rust spots on my flatware? I’m so tired of them looking icky, it happens to my …
Rubbing alcohol is a green and cheap cleaning agent. However, you need to use some precautions when using it as a cleaning agent. Here’s how to safely use isoproponal safely in your home
Short term things you can do to help offset the rising cost of fuel’s impact on your budget.
Heather says: Welcome to week 15 of the weekly menu plan and shopping list journey. Some of you may notice that there are fewer simple carbohydrates on this menu (two notable exceptions). I will be doing my best over the next few weeks to continue adding more vegetables and legume recipes to the site. Here …