Hi Reena, We had a professional paper hanger apply new paper in our kitchen. Everything was good until we had a humid day and then, the paper started to bubble. What can we do? — Wamone
Dear Wamone. The secret to the solution is gentleness. Using a sharp utility knife, make a small incision in each bubble, gently spray glue into the holes, and then press the paper onto the wall or gently roll with a clean paint roller.
Dear Reena, I have a problem with a smell in my upstairs closets. They are not used often and have a weird smell to them. If I paint them, should I use a specific paint that would get rid of the smell? — Ginger
Dear Ginger, Determine whether the smell is coming from something inside the closet, the shelves or the flooring. The reason behind the smell will determine the result. In other words, if the smell is old musty wood, or petstained wood, then cleaning, drying and painting the wood is a great immediate solution. Unfortunately, painting will only offer a short-term fix, and before you know it, the smell will return. You are better off purchasing new shelves, as you will be much more satisfied with the longterm result.
Dear Reena, Whenever I bake raspberry cupcakes, the berries drop to the bottom of the cups and won’t distribute evenly in the cupcake? Any ideas of how to avoid this? — Kim
Dear Kim, Roll the berries in flour before adding them to cupcake batter. This trick works with nuts as well.
Dear Reena, Why do some people add milk to meatloaf? I saw this on a cooking show and thought it was strange. — Sam
Dear Sam, When people add milk to meatloaf, they use a recipe that also calls for bread. The bread soaks up the milk, creating fluffy bread and a moist meatloaf texture.
Dear Reena, How can I remove tomato skins in a hurry? — Sandra
Dear Sandra, To remove tomato skins, put tomatoes in boiling water for 45 seconds. Plunge tomatoes into ice water and the peel will slide right off.
SQUEAMISH HINT
• The easiest way to remove a tick is to apply dish soap onto a cotton ball. Hold the cotton ball on the tick for 20 seconds, the tick will pull its head out of your skin. — Heinrich
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: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
-Reena Nerbas