Peg Bracken: Rest in peace

Ivy says: Southern Beale brings us the news that Peg Bracken, author of the “I Hate To Cook Book”, has passed away: I was surprised and saddened to read Peg Bracken’s obituary in yesterday’s New York Times. Peg Bracken wrote the “I Hate To Cook Book,” a huge bestseller that became a staple in the …

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Stop Dingy Dishes By Cleaning Your Dishwasher

Dear Home Ec 101: My dishwasher just isn’t doing as great a job anymore. I haven’t changed anything: same soap, I scrape the plates, I still use a rinsing agent. What could be going on? Signed, My Dishwasher is a Dud Heather says: Did you know your dishwasher requires regular maintenance to provide consistently clean …

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Round-up, as compared to square-up

Ivy says: I have several great posts to point out to you guys today! Check it: You know you want some cheap date ideas! Go on over to the Frugal Law Student to check them out. Kacie at Sense To Save has a great post on keeping your heating bill down to a semi-reasonable level. …

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Realistic Water Conservation

Heather says: Our governor has asked South Carolinians to conserve water as nearly every county has been upgraded to severe drought conditions.  I know, at least in our household that conservation is more likely to be practiced if it isn’t painful.  For our part we’ll be: Taking bootcamp style showers and the boys will bathe …

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The Great Eyeshadow Tutorial

Dear Home-Ec 101 Goddesses, Help! I have a fancy party Saturday night, and this is the first time I’ll have been all duded up in years. I bought makeup today. Can you give me a crash course in applying eyeshadow? Signed, I Ain’t Girly Ivy says: Let me just warn you ahead of time that …

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Free Pot Scrubbers

Heather says: Mesh bags, such as those onions are sold in, make great pot scrubbers.  Be sure to snip off any metal fasteners before using them on your good pots.

Roasted Vegetables a Simple Side Dish

Roasting vegetables brings out their sweetness and makes a simple, delicious side

  How to Roast Vegetables Roasting vegetables is a simple way to bring out the flavor. I like to mix it up and use vegetables such as: turnips, carrots, parsnips, zucchini, and yellow squash. For extra flavor, I’ll slice an onion into wedges and add a garlic clove or two. Preheat the oven to 425°F, …

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Ranch Potato Wedges: Simple Side

Heather says: Once a week I try to serve a completely kid friendly meal. One of their favorite side dishes is absurdly simple and is still healthier than hitting the golden arches. Ranch Potato Wedges 4 medium potatoes 2 tsp olive oil 1* – 2 TBSP ranch seasoning *We like ours lightly seasoned. Preheat the …

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