That's why they call it 'back of the envelope'

This week’s reader tip is from Ruthie Harrell of Dickson, Tenn. Her method of “recycling” junk mail may come in handy.

“Since we pay most of our bills via Internet, we save the envelopes the company sends to use for making our grocery lists (you can put your coupons inside),” Harrell writes. Her family’s not only saving paper, they’re not trashing unused paper.

Got a bright idea? Have a smart trick that makes life easier? You can give and get nifty ideas at livesmart .usaweekend.com.