Plastic Bags

Even though I use reusable bags when shopping, I still end up with a ton of plastic bags. To contain this mess I use the "triangle fold method".

Before and After

Triangle Folding Plastic Bags*

Step 1: Begin by flattening the bag.

Step 2: Fold the bag in half lengthwise (matching up the handles). Fold it in half once more (photo 2).

Step 3: Starting from the bottom of the bag, fold the bottom corner up (photo 3). This is your first triangle.

Step 4: Continue folding triangles until you reach the handles (photo 4).

Step 5: Tuck the handles into the pocket created by the last triangle fold (photo 5).

Viola...triangle plastic bag.

* Thank you, Karen, for teaching me this nifty trick.

Crayons

Before and After

Finding the "right" color crayon from a caddy/box had always been a challenge for my son. To help, I stacked a bunch of them upright, wrapped them with a rubber band and put them in a small tub making it easier for him to eyeball just the right shade of green.

Plant Stand

Last year I planted freesia bulbs in my back yard; sadly squirrels dug up a lot of them. I recently planted the survivors into pots. I mounted an old spice rack to a wooden frame (my husband actually mounted it). I fastened a screen to the front to help deter unwanted pests. Fingers crossed...

Gardening Tip - Fingernails

Before heading out to your garden, scrape your fingernails against a bar of soap to prevent unsightly dirt from getting under your nails. This will make washing your hands a breeze with a lot less scrubbing.