Hints From Heloise

ORGANIZATION NATION

Dear Heloise: I always consider the spice racks at the vintage/thrift/resale shops. They can be sanded down, painted and repurposed to hold nail polish, small bottles of creams and lotions, brushes, and other beauty helpers. Bonus points if the spice rack comes with the original little bottles! -- Julie W. in Oklahoma

TIP TIP

Dear Heloise: Coupons for dining are popular now, and they are a great incentive to draw people back into the restaurants after quarantine.

However, don't forget the server. Tip for your meal as if you are paying full price for the meal. A discounted dinner doesn't equal a ripped tip. -- A Server in Pennsylvania

Tipping generously is a sign of great respect. Readers, while coupons can shave a few dollars off your tab, you should tip based on the full price of the meal. -- Heloise

P.S. If there's a problem with your meal or service, talk it over with the server and/or manager.

DID YOU KNOW?

Dear Readers: The brown bits at the bottom of the pan when you're finished sauteing, roasting or frying? They are a flavor goldmine. "Deglaze" the pan by adding broth, water or wine to the bits and stirring. Add a glug of heavy cream, flour and butter to create a delicious sauce. -- Heloise

HINT FROM HIM - DIAMOND DAYS

Dear Heloise: Check out a tape measure the next time you get a chance. Look for the black diamond. It can indicate where a wall stud may be. -- Henry T. in California

MEATLOAF MOLD

Dear Heloise: Parchment paper is handy; it saves a ton of cleanup time, but it's hard to conform to smaller pans, like a meatloaf pan.

The solution that works for me is to get the parchment paper wet and mold it into the pan. -- Kelly M. in Texas