Yes. They're long, thin and usually wrapped in plastic. the skin is thinner and the seeds less bitter.

I'm a berry-picker and a turkey-soup-maker myself. It surprises me that a cookbook wouldn't have information on how to make your own soup stock. Thanks for reading, and for leaving a comment.

Mr. Osborne: I have talked with more than a few people who never even considered renter's insurance, or even knew it existed. Lots of us go through life with an attitude of "That won't happen to me." Without a few object lessons as to what might happen without renter's insurance, a lot of people wouldn't take the issue...more

Again, though: If all your stuff is unusable, what would you wear to work/cook with/sleep on? It costs a lot more than most people realize to replace even the most modest possessions. Go through your house, open every cupboard and drawer and closet, and you should see that $150 per year even for 10 years wouldn't begi...more

Some of my own towels are in their 14th year of use. I hang on to them until they're "stringing" too badly to be used. Then I too use them for cleaning rags. Ultimately things DO wear out. The serendipitous sale prices come in handy at those times. Thanks for reading, and for leaving a comment.

@MoneyIllusion: Won't your friend be surprised if it turns out Mama really DOESN'T have money? Scary.

It's safe if you follow the USDA recommendations noted in the article.

Just as some people will take navy showers but not hang up clothes, or will bike to work but refuse to own a microwave, regifting is one tool in the low-impact arsenal. It's not the only tool -- but I didn't say that it was. Thanks for reading, and for leaving a comment.

That's the topic of Monday's post: "Go ahead -- give a gift card." http://money.msn.com/frugal-living/post.aspx?post=987962b7-e220-4e90-9b81-0d33d22eed1f Some people think gift cards are lazy. Some think they're fabulous. I've got a foot in both camps.