If you haven’t noticed, the staid old Crock Pot or slow cooker is making a rousing comeback. Not only is it handy for bachelors, working moms and single parents, but it’s a great convenience for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. In addition, it’s an energy saver.

And what better time to begin using this time and money-saving device. With fall upon us and winter just around the corner, soups and stews which are ideal for making in a Crock Pot, are welcomed fare for lunch or dinner on those cold, blustery days. And when you don’t have to slave to put a mouth-watering dish on the table, it just makes it all the more enjoyable.

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Keep a box of Carnation Non-Fat Dry Milk in the pantry. It can be used in a pinch if you run out of milk at an inopportune time. In addition, for a luxurious bath worthy of Cleopatra, add a handful to warm running bathwater. The lactic acid softens the skin, and the proteins make it feel silky smooth.

Brew your favorite coffee in the morning, but don’t throw away the grounds. They are full of nutrients that plants love. Feed both inside and outside plants with the used grounds. Just work the them into the soil. Fertilizing plans with coffee grounds also repels cats and prevents them from digging up soil.

Like to use Crisco when you bake? It’s also good for preventing and curing diaper rash. Just butter baby’s buns with a coating of it. It also works well to heal dry, chapped hands. Rub hands with Crisco, don a pair of old gloves or tube socks, go to bed, and wake up the next day with softened hands.

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Aren’t the handyman type? Don’t know one end of monkey wrench from another? Well, you’re not alone. Many people are not inclined to do home repairs that are best left to the pros like plumbing and electricity among others. The problem has always been how to find a reputable repairman that won’t rip you off. Asking friends or family is never a sure thing. The Yellow Pages is hit or miss at best.

Now there is a way to get referrals for virtually any kind of home repair or service you might need with relative certainty they will do an adequate job and not rip you off. Angie’s List is an online rating service that takes recommendations for service providers from users in your neighborhood and posts them online. You can find out who used Joe’s Plumbing Service, the kind of work Joe performed and how satisfied the consumer was with his price and service. Of course there are no guarantees, but Angie’s List. does try to negotiate a settlement in the event there is a dispute. And if a contractor values his reputation, something is usually worked out.

The Saving Lady is a long-time user of Angie’s List and has yet to be snookered. Every service by every contractor used so far has performed well and at a price I was willing to pay.

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