Baby Food & Jars

Over the past few weeks, I have started my little girl on solids. Because fruit doesn't freeze well and doesn't keep long, I generally opt for jarred fruits. For veggies, however, I've been pureeing and freezing.

Not buying baby food means less waste in the form of the jars, plus I know what my baby is really eating and how fresh it is. It also becomes easy to adjust the thickness and consistency, so I can prepare it how she likes it best (at the time, anyway!).

When I do use jars, I wash them thoroughly when they're empty so I can use them for something else. Here are a few ideas:

• Storage for small amounts of paint/mixing paint samples
• Containers for small items, such as paper clips, push pins, etc.
• Candle holder - cover the outside with triangles of tissue paper and seal with watered-down glue. Place a tea light or small candle inside.
• Storage for small amounts of leftovers, such as sauces, gravies, chicken broth

Sophisticated Use for Six-pack Rings

I must say, I rarely buy six-packs that are bound together by the plastic rings. One, the rings just make me a little angry, and two, they're actually fairly hard to find these days (thank goodness!).

If you have any, though, there's a great way to use them. I was watching Martha Stewart yesterday, and someone on her team shared a way to make beautiful snowflakes out of them! Perfect for holiday decorating.

For instructions, just do a search for "six-pack snowflake" on marthastewart.com. The direct link has been down, but as its working, I'll post it. And should you want the how-to before then, post a comment!

And don't forget, if you choose not to use them for snowflakes, be sure you snip all the holes apart so animals don't get trapped in them.

UPDATE: link!
http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.3a0656639de62ad593598e10d373a0a0/?vgnextoid=1cd4af6a77fcd110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&vgnextfmt=default&rsc=ts_Homepage_Homepage