Blog Posts by Good Housekeeping

In the Test KitchenMy desk is next to the Good Housekeeping Research Institute Test Kitchen. Starting this week, the smells that will waft to my workspace from the ovens and stovetops will be of turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. GHRI's food editors cook two seasons ahead, and, as I know from my walks by the kitchen, they cook calmly and cleanly.

I asked GHRI's food experts for their advice on being handier in the kitchen. They gave me a few time- and headache-saving tips:

1. "Easily chop fatty bacon for recipes by placing it in stacks, wrapping it in plastic wrap, and freezing it for an hour." - Sherry Rujikarn, Test Kitchen Assistant

Related: 5 Simple Condiments for Grilling

2. "To quickly dry blueberries (or any other fruit) for muffins, spread them out on a paper-towel-lined baking sheet." - Genevieve Ko, Senior Food Editor

3. "Save leftover wine for cooking in small jars or bottles in the fridge so you don't need to pop open a new bottle." - Cathy Lo, Associate Food

Whether you're looking for a mystery or a memoir, chick-lit or historical fiction, we have a book for you. Check out our picks for summer's best reads.

the chaperone

The Chaperone
By Laura Moriarty

It's 1922, and "It Girl" Louise Brooks (reimagined at 15) plans to take Manhattan by storm. Her chaperone, Cora, has her own reason for quitting Wichita. Will oil and water mix in the Big Apple?

The Hypnotist's Love Story
By Liane Moriarty

As a therapist, Ellen is less freaked out than intrigued to discover that her new boyfriend's ex is a stalker. A fresh spin on grappling with misplaced passion.

The Orphanmaster
By Jean Zimmerman

A female trader in 17th-century Dutch New York City joins a British spy in her search for a man - or monster - stealing local children. A thriller, love story, and costume drama in one.
Related: 10 Hair Care Myths Busted

Little Night
By Luanne Rice

Organizing MishapsAre you trying to get organized but still mired in a mess? Lorie Marrero, the bestselling author of The Clutter Diet is here to help. Her expert advice will help you avoid 10 common decluttering mistakes, to finally get organized for good.

Mistake 1: Not thinking through a project before starting When people decide to organize a pantry or a closet, they often jump right in to the project without first thinking about the functions of the space or planning out a system for maintaining it. Take just a few moments to think about how the space got this way, what habits created the disorganization, who will be using the area, and what you're trying to accomplish before you dig in.

Mistake 2: Forgetting about prevention

You can attack accumulated clutter and get some results fast, but ongoing, you also need to consider prevention. Could you stop yourself from buying that extra pair of shoes? Will you say no to some of those hand-me-down clothes from relatives that you don't really need?

It's all about managing your creditI'm considering applying for a new credit card, which led me to study up on the fine print on credit card offers. But before I dive deeper into the credit pool, I wanted to know how an additional card would affect my credit score. That's why I called up Craig Watts, Public Affairs Director at FICO, the folks who provide the formulas for calculating credit scores (yes, the FICO score, considered to be the most accurate). Here's what I learned from our chat.

Credit score rules of thumb:

• The primary time your credit score "matters" is when you make a request for more credit (such as applying for a credit card or a loan), or when you're entering into a contract for which your finances may be relevant (for example, when signing up for a cell phone plan or renting an apartment).
  
  Related: 4 Things Credit Card Offers Don't Disclose
  
  
• Credit scores range from 300 to 850. If you're on the high end, you're considered an "excellent credit risk," i.e., a lender can make a reasonable

Put down the striped tie, and check out these 5 fresh, budget-friendly ideas for Dad that are sure to make his Father's Day special.


Road TorqSafety First

After all those lectures from Dad on roadside safety, turn the tables on him this Father's Day with a multi-purpose Road Torq Spotlight ($30, momastore.com). A combination-spotlight and emergency beacon in one, it also comes equipped with a folding tripod, so in event of a break-down, he can set it up on the side of the road and signal for help. Long spiel on the dangers of letting your gas tank get too low not included.

Related: 50+ Simple Summer Desserts

Grill Brush

Combine two of Dad's favorite things - grilling and power tools - with this Motorized Grill Brush with Steam Cleaning Power ($29.99, brookstone.com). Equipped with a sprayer to steam clean and a motor to power through tough grease and dirt, he'll be sure to appreciate the cool-factor this gadget lends to cookout cleanup.

Corkcicle

Make sure Pop's wine

PillowsNow that spring-cleaning season is in full swing, here's something to think about. When was the last time you washed your bed pillows? Last month? Last year? Never? If it's been six months or more, now's the time to freshen them up and you'll rest easier for it.

Down and fiberfill pillows are a cinch to care for as most are machine washable. For best results, we recommend washing two pillows at a time (to help keep the washer balanced) and using a front or top-loading machine without an agitator. If an agitator-style top loader is your only option, place the pillows in the tub vertically, so it's less likely they'll get wrapped around and damaged by the agitator. If your pillow has a care label, it's best to follow it. If not, use warm water and select the gentle cycle. We also think it's a good idea to add on an extra cold-water rinse and spin. Tumble dry the pillows on low heat, fluffing and turning them often. In our Good Housekeeping Research Institute (GHRI) Home Appliances

Fresh Summer StrawberriesThe season has come when strawberries are once again affordable and abundant in the store. But are you tired of the same old strawberries and cream? Or maybe you just want to try something new and interesting with your box o' berries? Here are 5 surprising new ways you can prepare strawberries to impress your family, friends, and even dinner party guests.

1. Roasted Strawberries: Did you know that you can cook strawberries in the oven? They get just as juicy, sweet, and sticky as they do on the stove top, but keep their shape much better. The flavors seem more concentrated too. Just line a jelly-roll pan with parchment paper (for easy cleanup!) and toss 1 lb. strawberries, hulled and halved, with 2 tsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. sugar. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes in a 400 degree oven. Perfect as an accent to your cheese plate, topping for ice cream, or swirled into yogurt.

Related: Easy Summer Fruit Recipes

2. Pickled Strawberries: Just because strawberries are super sweet,

Outdoor tableclothGot company coming over for the holiday weekend? Here are some quick change-outs that can turn your backyard into an outdoor oasis.

1. Outdoor Tablecloths: One of the quickest ways to make your table really stand out is to dress it with an attractive outdoor tablecloth. Among our favorites: The Bardwill Indoor/Outdoor tablecloth. In our tests it was great at repelling liquids so you can wipe up a spilled Coke before it absorbs into and dirties the cloth. The soft to the touch material comes in stripes and traditional floral and tropical prints. If you're looking for a modern print, check out Hen House Linens. It carries an assortment of 100% cotton tablecloths in a variety of bright colors, geometric prints, and bold stripes.

Related: 5 Do-Ahead Tips for Outdoor Parties

Outdoor chair cushions2. Outdoor Cushions: Make your guests comfortable with new patio cushions. We found JCPenney's Outdoor Oasis Double Welt Seat Cushion incredibly comfy and resistant to backyard stains like ketchup