A recent column about my commitment to organizing my kitchen prompted a huge response. I am happy to report "mission accomplished." After reading an email from K.T., I was really touched. I think I'll follow her lead and offer my help to a few people I know.

From piles to luxury suite. My kitchen is pretty well organized, but Mary's kitchen challenge got me thinking about my elderly, ailing mom's home. She is stuck in her bedroom, almost buried under mountains of stuff. With her blessing, I dived in and organized as Mary recommended. After about 20 hours, I presented her with a beautiful, clean, inspiring bedroom, walk-in closet and bathroom. We call it her luxury suite. She loves it, and I feel so good having helped her. Now, I have a place to sit when I visit. I'm thinking of working on her kitchen next.

-- K.T., email

A toilet's friend. My toilets get a buildup of mineral deposits, and I've spent hours on my hands and knees with a pumice stone or fine-grained sandpaper. Now, I sprinkle a little Bar Keepers Friend in the bowl, give it a good swish with the toilet brush, and let it sit until the next flush. I do this weekly, and the toilets are sparkling white, with no effort.

-- Jean, California

Send tips to mary@everydayâ cheapskate.com or Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2099, Cypress, CA 90630. Include your first and last name and state.

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