Around the house

* Patch a leaking cooler. Melt paraffin wax and allow to cool slightly. While wax is soft, plug hole inside and out. Use caution when heating wax because of flammability.

* Perk up an old picnic table. Cover with a printed, fitted single sheet.

* Clean window screens. Remove and lay them on flat surface. Mix a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part ammonia in a bucket and scrub with bristle brush. Rinse with a hose and rap screen with hand to remove excess water. Let screens dry in sun.

* Keep ants away from house. Inspect exterior foundation for anthills. Pour 1 to 2 cups ammonia down the center of the nest. Place whole cloves of garlic around house entrances and inside cabinets to repel pests.

* Remove grease from electric can opener. Run a paper towel through the appliance as if you were opening a can. The towel will absorb the grime.

* Extend your clothesline with several feet of chain. There will be no need for clothespins. Hang wash-and-wear garments on hangers are hooked through the links.

In the garden

* Thin out vegetable and flower seedlings when they're a few inches tall. If you pull weaker growth, the stronger plants will have more room to develop; a few rigorous plants will yield a better harvest and more blossoms.