photo by startcookingkathy

DEAR SARA: I make bread in my bread machine frequently, but I can’t slice it thin enough to use as sandwich bread. I guess I just don’t know how to slice bread. Thanks for any help. — Tiffany, e-mail
DEAR TIFFANY: I used an electric knife until I bought a decent serrated bread knife. Look for a fiddlebow knife. It might help if you use a bread-slicing guide, too.
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photo by bcmom

I’ll admit, I haven’t tried reusing dryer lint, so the first tip is on my must-try list. I hope there’s a new frugal tip for you, too.
DRYER-LINT FIRE STARTER: I stuff my dryer lint into an empty toilet-paper cardboard tube. I melt my leftover candle wax and pour it into both ends to cover where the lint is exposed. I let it harden and then use it whenever I start a fire in my fireplace or when camping. — Debbie, e-mail
Note from Sara: Store them in a …

photo by hownowdesign

I grew up in a thrifty home but didn’t know it for years. As I learned more about frugality, I realized how smart my family was about making every penny count, even when they didn’t have to. I remember wearing plastic white-bread bags over my socks and inside my boots during the winter. I have no idea whether my friends wore them, too. I only know they kept my feet warm and dry.
I share ideas for reusing household items because they’re simple to include in your daily …

photo by powerbooktrance

A relationship needs glue to make the long haul. Bickering over household chores or being resentful over the little things can make us forget why we got into it in the first place. Apart from the unforgivable, many people simply need time to reconnect. Shared love is an investment. And much like your budget, you’ve got to track this, too. I hear a lot about couples who have date nights. While that works great for some people, it’s not an ideal option for everyone. I’ve been married only …

Have you ever had bits of potato chips, cereal or pretzels left over after a night of munching? Maybe the chips have been pulverized into crumbs or are partially stale, or there isn’t enough cereal for a full serving. There’s no need to toss the foods or feed them to the birds. Put them to good use in creative and frugal recipes. Add leftover cereal and chips to meatloaf, muffins, bread, desserts, yogurt and ice cream. Here are a few recipes to get you started.
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