•Cut stems ends at a 45-degree angle, removing ½ inch and leaves below water line, using a sharp utility knife or gardening shears so the stems are not crush in order to have a better water uptake. Only bare stems should be submerged.
•Fill the vase with lukewarm water for better absorption.
•In addition to the preservative packet that comes with the flowers add a crushed aspirin; the carbohydrate content nourishes the stem and the analgesic aspect helps open the stem for better water intake.
•Change the water very other day so prevent bacterial growth.
•Remove dying blooms; they give off ethylene gas, which causes other flowers to wilt

Before calling a plumber try this; pour one cup of plain yogurt down the drain and let it sit overnight. In the morning, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain, the enzymes in yogurt break down sludge in the drain and the hot water will rinse it away.

If there is no time to properly season after use, just wash it with water, dry with a hand towel, then give it a quick swipe with a paper towel dipped in oil to seal it from moisture, which can create rust.

These are some tips for picking fruit at the grocery store:

Watermelon- pick watermelons that are heavy for their size, and have defined stripes. Pick ones that have less of a yellow spot: those tend to be sweeter.

Oranges-pick heavy oranges that are smooth and firm.

Strawberries- pick ones with fresh looking leaves. (Not wilted-looking)

Bananas- pick ones that are slightly yellow and firm. (Remember, bananas that have little black spots but are still firm are perfectly ripened. They are very sweet, but can rot quickly.)