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DEAR SARA: I was canning peaches today, and I was supposed to cut them into halves and remove the pit. I can’t figure out how to do that without ending up with a ball of mush. How do you cut it in half when it has a giant hard pit in the middle? I ended up canning peach chunks, but I would like to know the correct technique for next year. — Carla, Canada
DEAR CARLA: I insert a sharp knife into the peach until it touches the …

photo by inkynobaka
Say goodbye to ugly, messy gravy globs. If you don’t have a thermos, you can use a fondue pot or slow cooker to keep it hot.
KEEP GRAVY HOT: During the holidays, if you want to keep your gravy hot and prevent a skin from forming on top, use an insulated coffee thermos with a spout for pouring. — Tina, Canada
DRY SANDWICHES: If you’re using condiments, package them separately and add them to your sandwich at lunchtime so the bread doesn’t get soggy. — Lisa, e-mail
REUSE FOIL: I …

photo by jonboy mitchell
People who practice frugality are often at different ends of the spectrum. Some people are in total guerrilla frugality mode to survive, while others simply enjoy getting a good deal. Some readers comment that what I share is too frugal, and others say it’s not frugal enough. For me, you’ve gone overboard with frugality if it harms or takes advantage of someone else. I’ll list some frugal “tendencies,” and you can tell me if you think they’re over the top or perfectly practical for you. If you …

photo by Rusty Keller
Are you preserving your garden harvest? Maybe you’ve already “put up” dozens of jars this year. Whether you’re …

DEAR SARA: Do you have any suggestions for dining-room table accessories on a shoestring budget? — Amanda, e-mail
DEAR AMANDA: I’m fond of simple table accessories. Keep in mind that table decor isn’t as limited in height as some believe. It used to be that no one wanted to use anything with too much height for fear that when trying to have conversations at the table, no one could see one another. As long as your accessories aren’t overpowering, you can keep them on the table when dining. Simply arrange enough …