OK folks, it's time for a duct tape tip: If you have a young toddler, put a piece of duct tape over their shoe laces so they'll stay tied while the child is playing. You'll also be educating the child on the value of duct tape. You can't start too young.

It's strange to me how people will see their dentist twice a year but will never go to a dermatologist for a skin check. The doctor will systematically check your entire body for suspicious moles or lesions. Folks, take it from me, skin cancer is much more treatable if it's found early. If you're an adult, you need to be going at least once a year for a whole-body mole check.

A lot of people love to cook and watch TV at the same time. If you're one of those folks, be sure to wrap your TV's remote control with clear plastic wrap before you start cooking. There's nothing worse than a greasy remote control.

Tim Thompson lives in Gainesville. E-mail Tim your ideas for tips, tools or tricks.