185: Soups...I Did It Again
In our final episode of 2025, we’re having some tarp talk. Did you know there’s a whole-ass tarp store? Nothing troubled about these assets! (Related: there is also a whole-ass store JUST FOR PINECONES). Would you be mad if you got a tarp for the holidays? I would not. They remain one of the most useful tools.
Listen to the podcast here:
Speaking of useful tools, we were talking today about the horror of soup — basically a simmer pot for your home, except now your living room, your sweater, and your entire person smells like…well, soup. So what can you spritz on yourself to get that scent out of there? A couple of recommendations…
vodka spray (recipe/details here)
various essential oils (more info)
vinegar (same deal)
Here’s what you don’t want to spray on yourself: the VERY POISONOUS can of memories that Andrew found on the Grandma’s Pantry subreddit. Indeed, this photo will grip you with all five senses!
You can also watch the podcast on YouTube (please do it, otherwise I’m doing a lot of extra work just so my mother can watch):
In other news, a few bits and bobs:
I mentioned this oil-burner night light that I got and I really love it. So there’s that!
Also, have any of y’all ever used hypochlorus acid to clean with? It keeps getting recommended but I’ve never tried it!
And finally, I went looking to find out what ever happened to potpourri, anyway, and basically: Science happened.
Finally, a few things you can do with pine needles after you haul the tree out:
Make your own potpourri/carpet sprinkle
Have more ideas? Call the Spotline! And be sure to tell us any stories you have, whether it’s a soupy sweater or a super-good use for old Christmas trees.
See you in the new year!