Bake with frozen blueberries to preserve texture

Question: I like to use frozen blueberries to make blueberry pies, but the colour of the blueberry’s bleeds through the pies, turning the pies into a purple colour. They do not look appetizing. What am I doing wrong? Shenaz

Answer: When it comes to using frozen blueberries in a recipe, do not allow them to thaw first. Adding them while frozen will preserve the texture and prevent them from bleeding into the other ingredients and changing the colour of your baking. Note: If the skin is not broken, a blueberry will not bleed colour. Also, before adding frozen blueberries to your pie crust, sprinkle the crust with three tablespoons of cornstarch right before adding the berries. Doing this extra step absorbs liquid and prevents a soggy crust.

Question: I love to purchase really soft, fleece blankets. They stay soft for a while, but as soon as I wash them, the texture changes and they are no longer nice. Advice, please. Noah

Answer: Use cold water and the gentle cycle to wash fleece blankets. Hang them to dry. If your blanket tends to shed during washes, place it in a laundry bag. For extra softness, add a half cup of vinegar to the wash cycle.

Question: This is the first year that I have attempted to grow vegetables from seeds. When would you recommend starting the seeds indoors? Devin

Answer: As a general rule, start seeds about six weeks before the last frost. Place seedlings in a well-lit area in your home, as they require about six hours of sunlight per day. Remember to rotate your seedlings every few days so they get even amounts of sunlight.

Question: So many people comment on how terrific I look with grey hair. I am happy with the colour, but the texture to me feels wiry and difficult to manage. What can I use to calm my hair so that it looks smoother?

Answer:  After showering, consider applying penetrating oil to your damp or wet hair, you will notice a remarkable difference. If you use penetrating oil while your hair is dry, it will calm your strands, but it won’t be as soft.

Question: My stepson gave me a white leather purse for my birthday. I love it so much and use it daily, unfortunately, it’s become dirty. What can I use to clean it without buying a bunch of products from the store? Chendra

Answer: The easiest solution is to combine a half-cup of white vinegar into a bowl with one teaspoon of baking soda. Dampen a soft cloth and wipe the leather until the dirt is gone.

Question: Do you have any ideas of what I can do with my puzzles? I am trying to clear out my house and I would like to donate them to some kind of charity. The problem is that every puzzle I own is missing a few pieces. Thank you for your attention. Simon

Answer: Donating items such as puzzles and games are often welcome additions to many nursing homes or hospitals. However, since pieces are missing, consider donating the puzzles to a self-help store with a note that reads: Missing Pieces. Crafters may be looking for cheap puzzles to use for projects.

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.

Have a great suggestion or tip? Please send an email at: reena.ca. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.

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