Here’s how to maximize your home’s temperature this summer, according to professionals. Everyone knows that the South is notorious for scorching summers. So, what do you do? Credit:Getty Images “Setting your air conditioner to 78 is a safe number. This is because AC’s are made to keep your home 20 degrees cooler than outside.” “Pay attention to the outside temperatures to determine what is comfortable for you,” Powers says. Credit:Holden Henry / Getty Images...

Even when you’re on vacation, there is such a thing as too cold. Pause right there: This is the time to reset your thermostat before starting that much-needed vacation. But what temperature should you set your thermostat on while you’re away? Credit:RossHelen / Getty Images Can you turn off the furnace altogether? We’ll explain why it’s best not to change thermostat controls too drastically while you’re on vacation. How Much Should You Change The Temperature While You’re Away?...

No, it’s not for “Maybe.” You’ve beeninvited to a wedding. How Do You Fill Out a Response Card? Credit: Julia_Sudnitskaya / Getty Images Why Is There an “M” on It? Before you complete the response card, first determine who has actually been invited to the wedding. To do this, check the inner envelope, as it will list the names of all invited guests. That’s how you know you’re responding for two guests, rather than one....

Spoiler alert: Its not how long the employee has worked at Cracker Barrel. So, what do the stars on Cracker Barrel employees mean? The stars represent an employees level of achievement and tenure within Cracker Barrel. This is not the case, a spokesperson for Cracker Barrel emphasizes. We take great pride in the program and so do our team members. Can Employees Earn Stars For Their Apron? Employees can earn up to four stars on their apron....

Don’t let tardy responses get you down. While that is something thatSouthern hosts have undeniably mastered, there is always the fear of things going awry. However, that’s sadly not always the case. Credit:Getty Images/Viktoria Bielik Dont let the inevitability of tardy and missing RSVPs keep you from planning a perfect event. Heres what to do when people dont RSVP. Emily Post When RSVPs Are Expected What pop in of Event Is It?...

About This Episode Violets are taking over a readers lawn so Grumpy weighs in with advice. Plus, the plant of the week. it’s crucial that you get aweed killerthat contains an herbicide called Triclopyr. Plant Of The Week Yucca Color Guard Yucca color guard. The ones I want to talk about this plant of the week called color guard. It’s a great, tough accent plant, and it’s hardy in USDA zones four through 10....

About This Episode A reader needs help with tasteless satsumas. Plus, Grumpys expert tip of the week. Question Of The Week “We’re all out of hope. We live in Biloxi, Mississippi, and have a lot of satsumas, we call air fruit. The rinds are thick and the flesh is airy and tasteless. What are we doing wrong?” But tasteless fruit, likely results from a lack of nitrogen and phosphorous in the soil....

Dont throw out your plans for a Sunday roast just yet. In the off chance you are, there’s hope for you yet. What Is A Roasting Pan? Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely Roasting pans are specifically designed to cook at higher temperatures without fear of uneven cooking. What Is A Roasting Rack? Roasting pans are often sold with a roasting rack. And if you’ve ever tasted Mama’s gravy, you know the importance of good drippings....

Gratitude made easy, breezy. There is plenty of celebration, too, as loved ones hostbaby showersin your growing family’s honor. And with all the festivities come a pile ofthank you notesto be written. Credit: Getty Images

Getty Images Washing machinesarent what they used to be. Why Are There So Many Washing Cycles? The same is true for washing machines. Credit:Getty Images Petrino says, “Washer and dryer technology has become more advanced than ever. Petrino also points out the abundance of machine-washable garments available to consumers today. What Cycle Should You Be Using Regularly? Adding, “It can also prevent smaller itemslike socksfrom getting trapped inside fitted sheets.”...

Missing one of those back-of-the-box ingredients? What to Substitute for Oil in Cake Mix (And Other Treats) No oil? “Melted butter makes for a more flavorful dessert. Credit: Getty Images Baking mixes typically call for oil to keep the goods moist and tender. Or if your mix calls for butter and you don’t have it, just replace it with oil. How to Substitute Milk for Water in Cake Mix Don’t have the right liquid?...

There’s a reason cotillion is a Southern tradition. jaanalisette/Getty Images For many who grow up in the South, cotillion classes are a rite of passage. What Is Cotillion? Credit:jaanalisette/Getty Images Who Attends And What Should They Wear? What Dances Are Taught? As with attire requirements, the lessons taught may vary. What Other Lessons Are Taught? After all, good manners and a little ballroom dance know-how will always be in style.

If you like all things lavender, you will love the brightly-hued purple sweet potato. Sweet Potato Appeal The sweet potato is a popular ingredient in many classic, cool-weather recipes. The Origin Of Purple Sweet Potatoes The Stokes Purple sweet potato hails from North Carolina. Credit: Chengyuzheng/Getty Images Mike Sizemore, a sweet potato farmer, received some purple-colored potatoes as a gift from an unidentified woman. The Okinawan sweet potato originated in Central and South America....