Steps to brew great cups of coffee to get your days started

DEAR READERS: A morning cup of java is a big part of getting the day started. And making a satisfying pot of coffee is essential for many of my readers.

Here’s how to make that pot a good one:

Always begin with fresh, clean, cold water.

Select the correct amount of cof fee, which usually is 1 tablespoon per 6 ounces, but, of course, varies according to your taste. Pick the proper grind for the method you are using for brewing.

Clean the coffeepot thoroughly. Don’t just give the pot a fast rinse with water after use because the oils will build up over time. Wash the pot with soap and water often, at least every third or fourth time. Many pots, filter baskets and lids can be cleaned well in the dishwasher.

For many coffee makers (check the directions), you can run full-strength vinegar through a brew cycle and follow with several brew cycles of plain water to remove heavy deposits. DEAR READERS: Be sure to be prepared to take care of your high-tech devices, which will undoubtedly come on board along with your children and pets. Safety on all levels should be your top priority. Put your smartphones, cameras or other high-tech equipment into heavyduty zippered plastic bags to protect them in case they get sprayed or fall into the water. Also make certain that everyone on board has a life vest. And that includes your dog! DEAR HELOISE: When we have company, we always serve pancakes, a family tradition.

For less stress in the morning, I make the batter the night before and pour it into a clean, plastic squeeze bottle. In the morning, I just squirt the batter into the pan. This gives me more time to chat with my guests and less mess to clean up! DEAR READERS: Here are two quick and easy recipes to use with your favorite honey:

and rub over a leg of lamb and then cook.

with fresh ricotta cheese and spoon a bit of honey on top for a sweet breakfast treat.

just zap it uncovered in the microwave on high for a few seconds.

store honey in the refrigerator. Instead, keep it on a shelf. DEAR HELOISE: My kids and our family love to go to the beach, which involves hauling a lot of stuff. To lessen this task, I give each one of my children a large mesh tote bag. They can take their favorite beach toys and are responsible for them. At the day of the day, they just put them all back into their bag. Then they dunk the bag into the water to remove the sand before they bring it back to the car.