Map to home comes in handy

•”A few years ago, I had a wedding shower at my home and went to an awful amount of trouble to make an easily readable map. Several months ago, I needed to give out-of-town guests directions to my home, and I remembered the map I had made. I found a copy and have had several printed. I even carry a few in my purse for when I invite someone over for dinner who has not been to my home before. It makes things much simpler.” — Glade B. in Webster Groves, Mo.

•”I save the Tyvek envelopes from Federal Express and other mailings to make cheap, sturdy aprons to use during my children’s art projects. The material is really durable, and it doesn’t cost me a thing, so I can throw it away without washing if I have a mind to. It is washable, though, as well as being waterproof. Just cut the envelope open, and cut it out in the fashion of a cooking apron. Or cut a hole in the center for a smock.” — Ben U. in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

•Now is a great time to discuss summer chores with children. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will help pave the road to fewer battles once school lets out.

•Turn corduroy pants inside out before washing to reduce wear.

•”My friends and I have a summer vegetable club. Each week, one of us goes to the farmer’s market and buys several varieties of fruits and vegetables. We then split it up among us. Since many of us are in single households, it makes getting a small amount of fresh produce possible, and it is always a great surprise to see what we will be getting for the week.” — Carolanne in Charlottesville, Va.