Now Here's A Tip: Flakier Pie Crust

By JoAnn Derson

• Last month's Earth Day got me thinking about how many plastic bottled beverages my family goes through. I have found six glass reusable bottles that can be run through the dishwasher, and I store them in the fridge in a cardboard six-pack holder. I still want the convenience of grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge, but I feel better that I'm not contributing to a plastic problem.

• Using ice-cold sour cream instead of ice-cold water in your pie crust recipe will give you a flakier crust.

• "If you love to burn candles as much as I do, consider storing them in the fridge for a day or so before you burn them. I swear, it makes them burn evenly. Someone told me this once, and I tried it and have been doing it ever since. No more crooked candles." -- J.L. in Tennessee

• "When traveling for more than a few days, stick your plants into the bathtub with a little bit of water. They soak it up, and you don't have to have someone come over and water your plants. This will only work for a week or less, though." -- J.M. in Louisiana

• Kitchen remodels can be expensive, but when your kitchen isn't usable, that's even more of an expense. Plan by setting up an alternate kitchen to save money instead of opting for takeout food. Microwave, toaster oven, coffee pot and a small dorm-style fridge can take care of a lot of your needs in the short term.

• If you are planning on putting in some new plants or sprucing up your garden, check with your town's yard waste recycling center for free mulch or compost details. Many facilities offer these to their residents.

Send your tips to Now Here's a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810.

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