I have much beloved collection of half-century or older women's magazines, cookbooks, and encyclopedias of household hints that I've picked up for very little money here and there at used book stores, flea markets and eBay (of course). I love them for the historic value, the recipes, as well as for reminders that no matter how much the world changes, so much really stays the same.
When doing some cleaning yesterday, I stumbled across one of my favorites, "The Home Encyclopedia" published in London fifty years ago. I love this book because it's full of interesting little bits arranged alphabetically so it's easy to dip into, grab a little morsel of useful goodness, and then be on your way. For example, on one page there are instructions on planting runner beans, the recipe for bechamel sauce, and how to ascertain whether a bed is damp (use a mirror). There is also a list of helpful beauty hints, which I thought would be fun to share. And the funny thing, I actually already do some of these. :-)
1. After shampooing your hair, you can free it of all soap and leave it lustrous by putting a tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl of rinsing water.2. Always use a blunt comb to avoid tearing and breaking your hair.3. A lump of orris root in a muslin bag boiled with your hankerchiefs will produce a faint smell of violets on the hankerchiefs when they are ironed.4. Pineapple, tinned or fresh, contains all the properties which enable you to resist colds.5. We do not store fat unless we eat more food than we can assimilate.
Hope you're having a wonderful weekend!!!
A Something in a Summer's Day by Emily Dickinson
