Hometown Focus - Virginia, Minnesota

A rose is a rose is a rose – or is it?

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:04:18 +0000

By Barb Fivecoate

HTF Contributor

Some friends and I were talking about what the favorite gift is to give or receive on Valentine’s Day. We discussed candy, with chocolate being the top choice and turtles, mints, hot air, chocolate covered cherries and fudge being the favorites chocolate treats.

Keeping Cut Flowers Longer

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:04:31 +0000

By Jo Bjerke

Master Gardener Virginia, MN

If cut flower stems are momentarily out of water, air plugs up the cells that need to transport liquid. Dissolve commercial preservative in 110 degree water in a clean vase. Remove the food-producing leaves below the water level. Recut the stems under water and quickly place into prepared vase.

SpaceLIFT

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:04:31 +0000

By Rosie Gams

Choices:

Behind every great bathroom sink and vanity…or somewhere close, at least… you should find a stylish mirror. Mirrors are especially important in small baths. Besides playing their basic role of aiding in daily grooming, make-up, shaving, etc. mirrors amplify light and space in tight quarters.