Tip of the Week

* If your dog likes a treat of moistened dry food from time to time, use the water from cooking vegetables. It has a bit of flavor and some vitamins, too!

* "A tip for banana peels: Dry until crispy and break into small pieces. Put in blender and blend to powder. Store in an airtight container to sprinkle around base of houseplants before watering. Orchids love them -- it's great free fertilizer." -- B.C. in New Hampshire

* "Unmatched socks are handy-dandy cleaners and have so many uses. Keep one by the dryer to get all the lint off the trap. Shake it out or pop it into the wash when needed.

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