Question: What is the best way to care for teak furniture? — Alton
Answer: Teak furniture is a lifelong investment that requires a minimal amount of care, while still retaining its beauty. Polish teak furniture by applying either teak or coconut oil onto a cloth and wiping wood along the grain. Remove all excess.
Question: How can I remove chewing gum that has been ground into our carpet? I looked on your website but couldn’t find the answer. — Jordan
Answer: Spread smooth peanut butter over the gum; work it around all of the mess. The gum will become oily and easy to remove. After it is gone, clean the carpet with dish soap and water.
Question: I was a guest at a workshop that you spoke at last month. You demonstrated how to make your own microwave popcorn. Can you please tell me the quantities again?
Answer: Just like store-bought popcorn, not every kernel will pop, but this method is cheap, easy and, best of all, tasty.
Into a brown paper bag, mix a ½ cup of un-popped popcorn and one tablespoon vegetable oil. Add a sprinkle of salt.
Fold the bag over two or three times to seal. Microwave 2½ to three minutes or until the popping slows down. Carefully open bag and eat. Butter may be added as desired.
Extra popcorn treat: In a stainless-steel pot, combine ¾ of a cup corn starch, ¼ cup butter or margarine, two teaspoons water, ½ cup of icing sugar and one cup marshmallows. Stir and heat until marshmallows melt. Pour contents over 20 cups of popped popcorn and form into popcorn balls. Cover with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature.
Question: Other than throwing away stale potato chips, do you have any tips of what I can use them for? — Mandy
Answer: Perk up stale potato chips or crackers by spreading them in a single layer onto a microwave safe pan. Heat on high for a few seconds. Tip: Stale potato chips and crackers also work well when crushed and sprinkled onto casseroles.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website at reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
