Now Here’s a Tip – December 7, 2021

#Middlebury

• Candles will burn more evenly if you refrigerate them for a few hours before lighting.
• “My great-nephew and his family came to visit, and his toddler son is quite into opening doors. I had baby-proofed my home, but I did not think about his being able to turn a doorknob. His very smart mother pulled out a sock and slipped it over the doorknob, then secured it with a wide rubber band. Even I was unable to get a good grip on the doorknob after that!” – V.R. in North Carolina
• Surprise guests? Here’s how to quickly clean your living areas: First, clean the toilet, mirror and vanity in the guest bathroom and leave a fresh towel; grab a laundry basket and remove any clutter from the living room and kitchen; put away or clean dirty dishes and wipe down counters in the kitchen; finally, give carpets a quick vacuum. Then maybe light a great-smelling candle and greet your guests!
• “Fireplaces are wonderful for heat and ambience, but the ashes! When cleaning up, I spritz the ashes with a rosemary water solution. This keeps them from dusting up and flying all over, and it smells great. My neighbor puts her damp loose-leaf tea in the fireplace for scent.” – C.W. in Iowa
• “In cold winter months, keep your robe (and slippers or whatever else) under the covers with you when you sleep. Pull it next to or over you a few minutes before you get up. It’ll be toasty and will help make the transition into the cold a little less harsh.” – Giselle in New York
• Empty spice containers can be used to hold different hardware in the shop or in your toolbox.

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