Though we have a large ultraviolet (UV) treatment system on our water intake, we tend to drink a lot of bottled water.  That's because we like our water cold, something we don't get from our water source and the taste is much more enjoyable.  However, since regulations for bottled water are scarce to non-existent, we really don't know what is in this water nor how it will affect our health and this convenience could cost us in the long run.  Then there's the environment to consider - those water bottles aren't earth-friendly nor healthy depending on how they are made, which is why many folks are now using refilled stainless steel bottles.

Water quality is something that many are concerned about, even those on community-treated water.  So what options do consumers have to improve the health and taste of their water?  Buy expensive (and mysterious) bottled water, use filters or faucet purifiers, a reverse-osmosis system or add a secondary UV treatment system.   And while the last-mentioned option may sound expensive, it's more affordable than you think.  Zuvo offers a compact, UV and ozone treatment system that's designed to not only reduce bacteria but also improve the taste.  Although our water intake is not typical of most home owners, I tested this system to see how it could further improve our water's quality.  Find out how it fared in my Zuvo Water Purator review.

Photo © Zuvo

Benefits of Changing Appliance Filters | About Air Quality Appliances | How to Install a Faucet Filter

When it comes to pastry, cutting in the shortening or lard before adding the liquid is crucial for good blending and flaky, tender results. And yes, you could use a fork, but a pastry blender works that much better, plus it can be used for other blending tasks as well.  A blender is a must-have tool especially for pastry and these tips on How to Use a Pastry Blender will help get you started.

And if you're the type that dreads making pastry because it rarely turns out like it should, a change of rolling pin can sometimes help.  Learn more about rolling pins and how they can help resolve pastry problems.

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Drop Muffin Batter | Hand Choppers | Vintage Ricer

Sharing your home baking with family, friends or neighbors is a big part of the holiday season. And though disposable or reusable containers are readily available, old cookie tins are much more decorative and delightful.   Cookie tins can be purchased with or without contents, but recycling tins makes it a 'green' packaging alternative. Vintage cookie tins are easy to find at flea markets or you might even have one in your own attic or basement. But, before you fill it up, read my helpful tips on using old cookie tins in Recycling Vintage Cookie Tins.

Photo © Mifflin

Food Storage | Vintage Kitchenware | Cast From the Past

You can make your dinner table very festive by adding an economical centerpiece such as this Pfaltzgraff International Candelabra. This silver-plated candelabra has three taper candle holders and is adorned with festive trim. There's a bonus with this centerpiece, red candles are included. This candle holder design keeps the tapers safely nested, as opposed to using small candle holders where there is more risk of tapers falling. The idea with this model is to add water to the holders so the candles actually float in place and they're easy to change when required. A holiday centerpiece on a buffet table adds a nice festive touch. It's also a great gift idea - it would make a delightful hostess or thank-you gift.

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Photo © Pfaltzgraff

Must-Have Turkey Tools | Buffet Servingware | Party Appliances

A folding table can ensure all your guests are seated comfortably or can provide adequate space for your buffet meal. While they're a must-have accessory for special occasions or holiday entertaining, folding tables have many other practical applications the rest of the year. They're easy to find and come in a variety of sizes and finishes. This 5 foot Office Depot Folding Table has a wood-look finish that would be easy-care. Since prices vary, look for a sturdy and durable one that fits your budget. But, before you start shopping for a table, you may want to look at my Folding Table Buying Tips to make sure your purchase is suitable for your needs.

Photo Courtesy PriceGrabber

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Hosting & Buffets | Lazy Susans & Turn Tables | How to Set a Table

I just finished trying out a couple of Anolon's Advanced bakeware with an 'extraordinary' (as the manufacturer calls it) nonstick finish and while baking performance was excellent, it's the nonstick finish that really impressed me.  Nonstick pans are supposed to be well, nonstick.  But I've always found a need to grease or spray the baking pans and whenever I skimmed in this process, crumbs (or pieces) were sure to fall.  For the first time, I resisted the urge to grease these Anolon nonstick pans and 'oh me of little faith' was doubtful that the fluted cake would come out in one neat parcel.  Surprise - not only did it come out clean, but the cake looked so neat and tidy - it looked almost artificial.   I think I just made new best kitchenware friends because I can't see using my 'old' not-so-nonstick bakeware anymore.  Want to learn more about this nice Anolon bakeware?  Read my Anolon Advanced Nonstick Loaf and Fluted Mold Pan Review.

Photo © Meyer

Bundt-Style Cake Basics | Practical Mini Loaf Pans | Cake Decorating Supplies

It can be challenging to find that great gift for everyone on your list and if you're buying for seniors, you may want to consider a few things to make sure the gift is appropriate, that they'll use it and be happy with it.    A pink ribbon gift may be a good choice for some on your list; it's a gift that keeps on giving, long after they open it.   Have you thought about bundling accessories with your gift to make it immediately usable?  Opening a gift that requires batteries can be a downer on Christmas morning when none are accessible.   And when it comes to those hard-to-buy-for on your gift list, a gift basket or gift card may be the better (and sometimes only) choice.  Instead of using a disposable bow for a gift topper, consider topping your gift with a handy kitchen tool - it will get them excited before they even open the gift.   And most of all, this year have fun shopping and be a smart shopper - find ways to cut back on your overall holiday spending.

Find a Cool Gadget Gift | Gift Ideas by Price | Gift a Thank You Gift

A charger plate is an optional accessory, but adding it can transform your table from dull to delightful. Economical and with festive finishes available, a charger plate may be what your dinnerware needs. Learn what a charger plate is and how to use it in What's a Charger Plate?

Photo Courtesy PriceGrabber

Hosting Resources | Gifts | Tableware Resources

Looking for something for those that are hard to buy for?  Don't overlook storage products - they're not only practical but a life-saver for those who want to organize their homes.  They'll thank you every time they retrieve an item from a storage product you've given them.   There are storage products for food, electronic gadgets, knives, wine, spices, china and stemware, and just for about everything we collect or gather in our homes.   And if someone on your gift list burns heating wood, a log holder or fireplace accessory is an excellent choice.

This particular Fleur de Lis Log Rack is made in the USA of heavy gauge steel that has been laser cut and has a simple cut motif.  What I especially like about this model are the wheels and handle.  It can be rolled to the door for fill-up and returned to the wood heating stove or fireplace area.  It's a functional gift that won't be stored and forgotten.

Photo Courtesy of Stacks and Stacks

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With great holiday sales, this may be a good time to upgrade your cooking range.  If you're toying with range styles and considering one with front controls, while they're big on style, this range design may not be suitable for every kitchen.  There are reasons that make this range choice appealing to some while others might give it a thumbs down.  Find out why Front Range Controls May Not Be Suitable for Every Kitchen and make sure you'll be satisfied with your purchase decision.

Photo © Mifflin

Already have a range with front controls?  Leave a comment and let us know how you feel about this range style.

More Range Buying Tips | What's Convection Cooking? | Slide-in vs Drop-in Ranges