Cheap, smooth and relaxed – a great tips week

“What’s on sale during the wonderful month of October? Why, fishing gear, women’s coats, appliances and school supplies. You also can still get a good deal on remaining 2007 model cars as the 2008s roll into showrooms.

“My mother swears by wrapping her feet in a vinegar-soaked rag once a week to soften calluses. She does this before her bath, and uses a pumice stone to rid her heels of hardened spots on the skin. It seems to work for her, so I thought I would pass it on! — C.D. in Colorado

“I keep a plastic shoe box filled with writing supplies under the front passenger seat. There are notecards, paper and envelopes, stamps and even a small address book. I can write thank-you letters, pay bills or just keep in touch while I’m waiting in my car to pick up my kids from school. — T.E. in Michigan

“After a hard day’s work in the garden, I soak in a rosemary bath. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory, and it smells wonderful. I just add a few sprigs from my plant out back to very hot water, and then let the water sit for a while until it’s just warm. Then I get in. Heaven! — U.A. in Ohio

“As the school year starts again, I would like to take the opportunity to encourage dads to come to visit their child’s classroom. We have lots of volunteers, but never as many as we need. We love for dads to be involved. I have been a teacher for many years, and although fathers have become much more involved than they used to be, we still need their presence in the classroom. — T.L. in Illinois