This month: What are the "most useful" small appliances? Minerals in hard water can affect color and texture of cooked vegetables. Some tips on buying boys' school clothes. Child-rearing practices have changed.

Ten years ago, a study similar to the one reported here indicated that 240 acres were large enough to realize most of the cost economies coming from farm size alone. But machinery improvements since have changed the picture.

Just completed this year in the National Animal Disease Laboratory at Ames. It's the newest and most modern of three major research centers of USDA's Agricultural Research Service for protecting and improving animal health.

Yes, the "blue" in Blue Monday has faded, but it's still possible to see "red' on washday when "washable" clothing and lines don't prove so launderable. Here are some things to think about before you buy.