Secrets of Success

Keep pictures, not stuff

If you keep stuff you don't use because of a sentimental attachment, take pictures of it and put it in an album (online is OK) with a note explaining what it was, why you cherished it, and why it should find a new home. That way, you can keep the memory but recycle the item to a new home.

This worked for a friend of mine who was a major hoarder. She enlisted a friend to take notes and pictures while she reminisced. Sharing memories in person made it easier give things away or recycle them.

HEB 8 Grains & Seeds Entertainer Crackers

A tasty, interesting base for a spread or cheese. Whole grains and lots of non-grain seeds, plus (sigh) some enriched wheat flour. They're not as sturdy as some crackers, so you have to spread gently, but even my husband (who hates almost anything whole wheat) likes them.

Keep asparagus fresh in the fridge using a jar of water

To keep asparagus fresh, put them in the fridge standing up in a jar with an inch or two of water, like flowers in a vase. An old peanut butter jar or glass measuring cup works well.

Eat salad on dinner plates & dinner on salad plates

Eating your salad on a dinner plate makes it look smaller, so you take bigger portions of salad. Then reverse the trick for dinner, so your sensible portion looks like more.

Use spinach instead of lettuce

Instead of lettuce in salads and sandwiches, I use fresh spinach. It has the same texture but more vitamins and minerals.