MONEY MATTERS WITH SHEILA--DONATION TIP

Here’s a handy hand-me-down tip our money guru Sheila Conway came across recently. -- AP

That’s right, Anastasia, and it’s such a simple idea that I don’t know why I didn’t think of it long ago. We all have clothes that we donate to Goodwill, the Salvation Army, the Red Cross or other organizations periodically, right? Usually, that means cleaning out our dresser drawers and closets, and that can become a daunting task.

Why not keep a charity bag or box in your laundry room? After you launder an item you’ve decided to part with, place it in the bag or box instead of back in the closet or drawer. When the bag or box is full, call for a donation pick-up or bring it to your local drop-off center.

Brilliant, Sheila! What do you think, readers? Such a simple idea, right? Post a comment, and you could win the book being given away this week by our Book Club Friday guest author. -- AP

COOL TIP OF THE DAY

Every once in awhile one of our editors comes across a great tip that really doesn’t fall neatly into any of our editorial areas. Still, we’d like to pass along the information to our readers. So from time to time we’re going to step our of our expected roles to give you cool tips about “other stuff.” Today decorating editor Jeanie Sims has something to offer. -- AP

Thanks, Anastasia! Have you ever packed or unpacked a shipping carton and had to deal with those maddening foam packing peanuts? They drive you nuts the way they stick to your hands and clothing, don’t they? I’m no scientist, but I think it has something to do with static electricity.

Well, what’s the secret to avoiding static on your clothes from the dryer? Fabric softener sheets, of course. So the next time before you pack or unpack a carton containing foam peanuts, wipe your hands with a fabric softener dryer sheet. It will keep the peanuts from clinging to your hands.

What a great suggestion! Thanks, Jeanie! I’m forever fighting with packing peanuts. Readers, if you have a tip you think others would be interested in, why not share it with us? Post a comment to be entered in this week's drawing for a book from our Book Club Friday guest author. -- AP