Dear Heather and Ivy, What’s all the hoopla about these new-fangled light bulbs? Can I use them in any lamp / fixture that I have? How much do they cost? Will they really save me money? What makes them different than the bulbs I’m using now? Signed, In the dark Ivy says: Ah, CFLs vs. …
Dear Home Ec 101,I was baking a pecan pie for my sister-in-law when smoke suddenly started to fill the kitchen. When I looked in the oven, I noticed that some of the syrupy filling had spilled over onto the bottom of the oven, but the pie was done, so I took it out and didn’t think …
Dear Home Ec 101, Here’s my dilemma –now that school is nearly out, it’s like a “Click and Clack” theoretical dilemma, but a month ago, it was the hot topic in the house. I know other people have wondered, too. So here it is. I didn’t really buy enough standard school attire outfits at the …
Dear Home Ec 101, The store had a fantastic sale on both drumsticks and chicken thighs. Now, I have a lot of chicken, but I need to make sure it’s not boring. Suggestions? Signed, Hen Pecked Heather says: The great thing about chicken is its mild flavor. With its fairly neutral taste, you can use …
Hi Home-eccers- I would hate to have a whole month go by without asking a new question! Hopefully you can help me with this one. I have two small kittens (check out the picture, they’re way cute) and I live in a wee little Chicago apartment. Now that it’s spring, I’d like to have some …
Dear Home Ec 101, The hem is pulling out of my neutral fall-back pants, the ones I wear nearly every day when I’m not inspired to pick out anything else. The stylishness and variety of my wardrobe aside, there is no way I’m actually fixing that sucker with a needle and thread right now – …
Dear Home Ec 101, My popover pan that has been with me through thick and thin (and one husband and a couple of boyfriends!) has suddenly started misbehaving. Where before I could simply tip the pan over and golden fabulous popovers will pop right out.. Now when I pull the pan out of the oven, …
Dear Home Ec 101, I wanted to know whether you could offer any advice in preparation for moving. I will be moving across the country in the end of July! Signed, OnTheMove Ivy says: Moving across the country is a pain. Since you have plenty of time in advance, it won’t be nearly so bad. …
Dear Home Ec 101, I’m sorry if this is a silly question, but is there a difference between chives, scallions, and green onions? Can I substitute? Does it matter? Signed, Addled Allicae Heather says: Here’s a brief rundown that should help. Chives: These are the smallest onions and are grown primarily for the leaves. They …
Dear Home Ec 101, I recently bought a linen type shirt. I think it is linen. Anyway, it has this scent that smells like fish. The shirt is dry clean only. My mother has bought clothes that have had this scent, and I’ve always been turned off by it. I really like this shirt, but …