Tips to make your life a little easier

• “The place where I order my checks really hasn’t kept up with the times. I use my debit card all the time and hardly ever write checks. The problem is that I only get one register with a box of checks. When I order now, I request three (sometimes four) registers per box, and that makes it a lot easier to balance my checking account.” — F.L. in Massachusetts

• “Pillowcases make great art smocks for kids. I just cut a head-hole and two armholes in worn ones. I can get them really cheap at the thrift stores.” — N.O. in Virginia

• Now you can have your tea and clean something too. Teabags can be used to clean woodwork. Rub wood softly with a damp bag.

•”To keep sneakers from smelling up a closet, tuck a fabric-softener sheet into each one. Keep it in overnight, or just leave it there until you wear your shoes again.” — D.F. in Texas

• Now is the time to prep your outside pipes if you live in a cold-weather area. Cover exposed spigots with a foam wrapper, and be sure to drain any in-ground irrigation systems if you expect a freeze.

• “I was always running out of dog food, and I still do, occasionally. My dog has a special kind of food that I can only get at a store that is inconvenient to get to. I keep two or three servings in plastic baggies in the fridge. That way, when I run out, I haven’t really ‘run out.’” — E.B. in California