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

Standby Paint Can

If you ever buy the large canisters of coffee (such as the big plastic ones from Folgers), don't throw them out when the coffee's gone. Keep them handy for mixing paint colors, or just storing extra paint. They stay closed tightly and give you plenty of room to stir.