New Year GoodHousekeeping With a Smile...

Did you know that housework and cooking are therapeutic? Its a time to think and get some exercise.

If you prefer your own cooking to eating out, then you know a kitchen well organized is worth its weight in gold. Whether you have a small cooktop or huge range all pots/pans and skillets should be easily accessible. 

It is wise not to stack Teflon pots/pans/skillets one inside the other without some kind of surface protection. Try using a cardboard cake bottom.

Often, a small prepping and cooking space is easier to manage and clean up. Did you know that you don't need gadgets, contraptions and or large heavy counter equipment to be a brainy gourmet?  A simple cutting board and a knife is enough.

The best prep surface is a European beach-wood round block. This wood cutting block has a tight, smooth surface and is easy to care for; just use a clean hot cloth with distilled white vinegar to clean deep. Finish the job with rub of olive oil.

Other brainy tips: When stacking glass bowls one inside the other take care to protect them. Try using either white or brown wrapping paper, bubble wrap or air-pack sheets that you can save from shipped packages to put between each bowl.