Quick Tip: Kick Up Your Boots

 I feel I can safely state that we are in full-on boot season and I couldn't be more happier. And my toes are thrilled. I don't have to paint my nails and my tooties will be warm and snug. But in order to make sure I look my best, there are feel things I need to do to step out in style!

1. Clean & Protect: Depending on where you've been hiding your boots, it's time to pull them out, wipe them down and spray a protectant on them. No matter the material of if you've sprayed them last year. To ensure longevity, protect them every year.

To clean, just use a soft damp cloth and for those more stubborn stains, you can use a baby wet wipe. I once used one to remove a stain from my leather coat! 

2. Repairs: Did you know there are still cobblers? Instead of tossing that pair of leather loveliness because the zipper is broken, find a cobbler. For me, boots are like my fall bestie and I have a hard time tossing them out when they're just not up to snuff. 

3. Daily Storage: Have you ever noticed how wonderful pool noodles are? They can be used for so much more than just laying around the pool and a snake hiding hole. Cut a pool noodle to size, making sure it's tall enough to keep the calf portion of the boot standing tall. Since I was only able to find a few noodles, I cut mine down the middle. If you take this route, be sure to put some tape along the exposed cut side. The noodle can fray and these noodle pieces are not as pleasant!

They also make boot sleeves to help. Google "boot storage sleeves" and you'll get an assortment. One thing to keep in mind, if they clip and hang, make sure they don't leave marks on your boots. That would be tragic. Research what fits your needs and closet space. (The clear ones were free with a pair of rain boots.)

I'd love to hear from you? What works? What doesn't? Share pics of your favorite boots. I'm always looking to expand my wardrobe!

Quick Tip - Slow Cooker Liners

 It's that time of year where we dig out our slow cookers. I love walking into the house after a long day and the hearty scent of dinner already cooked hits my nose. At times, I may love my Crock-Pot more than my family. 

But I'm always amazed about the amount of people that are not aware of slow cooker liners. 

There is nothing worse than listening to your kids complain that the food isn't coming off or they let it soak, only to leave it all night and then you're the one cleaning it the next day. (We have a rule in our house, whoever cooks, doesn't clean up. In this case, whoever filled the slow cooker (which is always me) doesn't have to clean up.)

Go out and get a box of these today. They come in regular and small, which is great for that tiny slow cooker you only dig out for party dips.

I'll warn you, if you're cooking something in it that needs to be shredded (like chicken or beef), you will tear the plastic and you will have to wipe out the cooker, but clean up is still minimal. 

Thanks, Momma J