~ kitty litter left in a room that you plan to leave closed for any length of time will soak up musty odors and keep the room more fresh.

~ For loose knobs and other screw-type fixtures that won't stay in place, wind the screw with some thread, then screw tightly back into place.

~ Dry a few oranges and lemon rinds and toss them into an open fireplace. Their spicy aroma will permeate the room.

~ Use only half the nuts called for in a baking recipe. Substitute "quick oats" browned in butter or margarine for the other half.