Now Here's a Tip
By JOANN DERSON

• If you're heading out to a holiday gathering and want to curb that appetite, snack on something with lots of protein. It's longer lasting than quickie carbs. Try a handful of hearthealthy almonds or other nuts.

• "I start early with Christmas cards, since I have a lot to send. I take a basket, fill it with my address book, a few pens, stamps and cards, and whenever I am sitting around, I do a few. They get done with ease within a few weeks, and are always ready for mailing in early December." -- P.C. in Georgia

• It's never too early to reserve your babysitter for the holidays. Here's your reminder: Figure out when you'll need help, and arrange it now, before the crush.

• "When planning shopping days for the holidays, don't forget to schedule some time for Mom and Dad to take the kids separately." -- V.S. in Colorado

• Wrap the lint from your dryer in 6-inch strips of wax paper. Roll it up, twist both ends, and you have a perfect fire starter. -- M.K. in Michigan

• Outdoor umbrellas (patio umbrellas) can be easily stored in a leg of panty hose. Make sure it's clean and totally dry, and slide it into a leg from the bottom, then use the other leg over the top. Use tape to seal, and it even keeps bugs from nesting in the folds. -- F.W. in Iowa

Send your tips to Now Here's a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853- 6475 or e-mail JoAnn at letters. kfws@hearstsc.com.

(c) 2006 King Features Synd., Inc.