Free Firefox Web Browser
I LOVE FIREFOX!!!!! I think it is so much safer than the others....and you dont have annoying popups! The high security makes it harder to do things on some websites, because of popup blocker, but overall very user friendly! It is very similar to MSN on ours...
What Do You Do If Your Pet Gets Lost?
Please people, keep your pets ids updated, and get a microchip id for them, too. You can get the info at your vets office. Not only can the pet be identified and returned quicker but imagine this scenario: Your toddler discovers the door knob, and walks out...
Homemade Pizza Substitute
My finicky friend thought this was great on Sunday Football....open up hot dog buns, spread with spaghetti sauce, and top with mozzerella and other toppings; fill up a cookie sheet and bake at 375 for 10 minutes or until hot/melted. They taste just like the...
Buying Used Washers and Dryers
You were right, Kenmore is still the best for home appliances. My grandmothers avacado green set from 1970 FINALLY died, after bearings being replaced and everything! I have a used Maytag/Whirlpool (now the same) but miss the Kenmore I bought a few years back...
Disinfecting Used Shoes?
I have always used disinfectant spray, and sprayed every crevice and air dry. I saw them do this at a ski shop, and in bowling alleys, so I timed one, about a 5 second spray. I have never had a problem with used shoes. Actually, it is good to do them with new...
Repairing a Chipped Chalk Board?
Crayola came out with a wall paint that makes a chalk board surface, you may be able to fill it in with that?
How to Recycle Used Clothing?
If you dont mind not getting cash but a tax deduction, you could donate them to a womens shelter or crisis center (they sometimes hold them for women who have job interviews, court appts., etc.) or sell them on ebay and post close up pictures so buyers can...
Food Companies that Mail Coupons?
If you call the phone number on the package, they normally are happy to mail them out. My favorite grocery store stopped using internet coupons, so I do this with the few brands I go with (I usually use store brand or bulk food). Some of the small local food...
Lint on an Acrylic Jacket?
I keep a single or double blade disposable razor for shaving lint pills. It will remove the ones the tape leaves behind.
Sample Sized Ice Cream Cones for a Fundraiser?
If you have a Baskin Robbins in the neighboorhood, Id ask the manager about where they get them, or any other ice cream establishment that may give them out.
My Frugal Life - Fixing It Yourself
My DH fixed our kenmore vacuum on thanksgiving day....and saved us over $80! He has rebuilt computers, bringing in a little extra money for bills, and fixes our car and others for little or no money. He is a big blessing in my Life!
Cleaning a Food Slicer?
It almost sounds like lubricant coming out...have you asked the manufacturor? I guess it depends on where the black is located, and if it is liquid or solid, like plastic? Id consult the maker first, because it may be something that happens for the first few...
Sturdy Crayons
Mary - all we had growing up were broken crayons ;) We only got new ones for school, then whatever was left over we threw in a canister (in fact, the 75th anniversary Barnum Animal Cracker can....I use the 100th for the boys magnet letters/numbers!) Masking...
Buying an Olive or Cherry Pitter (Cherry Stone)?
Norpro or progressive makes them, and you can call your local kitchen specialty store (prices are VERY reasonable)
Decorating and Childproofing a Nursery?
First off...CONGRATULATIONS! I love the excitement of new additions! Please enjoy this time as much as you can...and take great care!Lowes and Walmart both carry nonpermanent borders, but check with your landlords first if just a border is fine. Or find large...
Decorating and Childproofing a Nursery?
I used the borax/washing soda/regular soap mix, like Fels Naptha in the laundry aisle or I use Pure&Natural, and it is gentle enough for baby clothes: 1/2 cup Washing Soda 1/2 cup Borax 1 cup Grated Soap Mix together and use 1 TABLESPOON for med/light soil...
Little Soap Bars
I found some types of shampoo are better for washing clothes than your hair! Luckily they give you two-three days worth! They saved my expenses when I moved, and had to save money not buying big bottles, I just used what I had saved up!
Storing Jig Saw Puzzles
This is great for those toddler wooden puzzles. THe kids can see the pieces, and they learn to put things back in their place.
Keep Popcorn in the Freezer
I keep mine in the freezer...and hit up the Boy Scouts when they sell, we keep it in the big freezer. They sell THE BEST!
Poll: Have you ever bought a new washer and dryer?
The poll didnt display! I bought a brand new Kenmore stackable washer/dryer for just under 1000 when I moved into my first home. I loved it! Unfortunately, I couldnt take it with me! They are my favorite brand ever, I loved the options. Now I have a used maytag...
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe?
Note: when you add sugar, be sure it is brown sugar, it neutralizes the acidity and tastes better! Regular granulated just doesnt cut it. My favorite marinara crock pot recipe is in the bowels of storage....Ill post when I find it!
Cat Wants to Sleep With Me At Night?
She also needs the warmth at night....try putting her bed in your room, and put something with your scent, like a flannel pillow cover as a liner. She may eventually go in there during the day, and then eventually go in at night. Remember, shell want you first...
I'm Having a Hard Time Being Thrifty?
I have been doing it my whole life, but my husband had to learn the hard way (he is a fast learner!) Sometimes he goes overboard because he is great at mechanics, so we get some questionable finds, but in months they are running and can be used or sold for...
Changing the Names of Kittens?
No, it shouldnt, I had one named Cleopatra, and I adopted her at 6 months and changed her name to Lupe because she was from Mexico and needed the protection of The Blessed Mother! I think cats listen more to their owners voice, because I had a special whistle...
It Can Be Cheaper to Grocery Shop Daily
Invest in a crock pot, and it will never let you down! I make my own marinades (Caribean) and use canned tomatoes to break down the meat. We also go half or split three ways part of a cow, and it lasts in our freezer for at least 6 months. Comes out to less...
Which glue should I use to repair a small plastic knob?
Try epoxy, at hobby stores in the model section! Or at your local hardware. My husband fixed our neighbors side mirror on the car! And many toys/nitelight covers of unknown materials!
Removing Candle Wax From My Cat's Fur?
I would try the sun, especially if they are in a heavy sleep. That was the only way I could trim my cats claws. And the sun will soften it up too.
Growing Plants in Stackable Milk Crates
THat is a great idea! I wish I knew about that before I donated them!
Working vs. Staying at Home
When I worked parttime, the days that I did work it was terrible to be around me, my older son was 2 and a half at the time. He got whooping cough in DAYCARE! I vowed never to have that happen again! I take online courses, and started a Shaklee Distributorship...
Make-Ahead Meals
My husband is starting a normal diet! So he works nights 4 straight, and I use a traditional recipe and break it down into four meals and freeze them for work. THis helps regulate his portions and we are not in a last minute frenzy for making his lunch.
Bargain Rack for Vitamins and Supplements
You can try Shaklee, they are 100% guaranteed (no bargain store will give you money back) and are the PIONEERS of supplements...and all natural! WWW.shaklee.net, and order with id # ZM06763 or call me with any questions: 971-241-8539
How I Went Broke Saving Money
Rebekah...do you shop at Fred Meyer ;) That is the only store that I have ever been able to do all that you posted! I would save 30-40 dollars in groceries alone, not to mention their AWESOME clearance prices! I would get two copies of their monthly coupon...
Nontoxic Canal Cleaner?
Shaklee products are 100% natural, and breakdown to work with the environment, and the Basic G (germicide) or Basic I (industrial) in their Home Health section may work for this; it is super concentrated, so you could put it in a sprayer. check out www.shaklee...
Simple Appetizer for 40 People?
Someone posted similar, but get the ham lunch meat (a little thick and rectangular) soft cream cheese, and green onion. Blot the ham and spread an even layer of cheese, clean & cut the onion green (the green should be whole) and lay it on the short side of...
Poll: Did you learn frugality from your parents?
My mother stayed at home most of the time, and then when she became single, had to raise 4 kids on her own and try to get a better job (she managed to get two associates degree, but with working I learned to take care of housework and cooking/baking.) It was...
Reusing Dove Cleansing Cloths
I used to buy them, Id cut them in half at the crease, and two boxes lasted me 6 months! I have a hard time finding my sensitive skin refill in the equate version (similar to Oil of Olay) so I have stopped using them. I also used them in the shower, and washed...
Two Dishwashers
I have a pre-dishwasher.....he is 95 # and named Charlie Dog! He also does floors. Sorry, the picture doesnt do justice!
The Internet Shopping Diet
I have started the Wal-mart Fast......I have even stopped using their pharmacy because I have to walk with two kids through half the store, and end up buying stuff because I am waiting in line! Walgreens Drive thru from now on, and I save two bucks on my prescription...
Using Stainless Steel Cookware?
If you are using electric (pertains more) the heat will be retained for a long time, so check the food and when you have just a few minutes left, SHUT OFF THE HEAT! Aluminum core stainless steel (they are made in layers) are quite efficient in disbursing energy...
Using Stainless Steel Cookware?
Sorry, Barkeepers friend or Shaklees at-ease will break down caked on/nasty messes! Barkeepers friend is next to Comet/Bon Ami. Shaklee is through their website, www.shaklee.com
Wearing PJs In Public?
I wear mine at home, so my neighbors see them. But normally I do not go out in public in my houseclothes I do have a couple pairs that are solid, so they just look like pull on pants, you wouldnt call them pjs and I had to wear them to the er, but at 4 am, they...
Knitted Hat With Cat Ears?
Have you tried Lions Brand Yarn? THey sponsor the Knit It! magazine and I think there may have been a similar hat a few years back....
Growing Strawberries in Containers
thank you....talked to my momma earlier, she said just use the starters, regular strawberries wont start them! I will look into these, and maybe just save up for the patio variety.
Making a Wasp Trap?
Hooray! i found it under yellow jacket bait on here! i dont like messing with the delicate balance of nature but when they nest above my garage and i have little kids and a dog i have to protect my own first! you can use soda pop citrus or sugar water and some...
Making a Wasp Trap?
ariela - the trap that i have we bought at lowes, you hang it on a tree or near the nest and it is cylindrical neon yellow. i believe it came with a refillable bait, and then dh and i put some cotton balls with bait in it. We also sprayed the nest and the combination...
Opinions About Mineral Makeup?
Physicians formula still has alot of titaniums and talcs. I looked at the website with their introductory offer, and I looked at their research. Shaklee (www.shaklee.com) has the EXACT same thing, at a lower price. And depending if you are a member, you can...
Poll: Are you a stay at home mom (or dad)?
I have been one for five years in July (I resigned full time work just before the birth of my first son) and I never regret it, no matter how crazy things may get! I have two little boys, so to go back to work it would never be lucrative due to childcare and...
Keep Kids From Using Too Many Bandages
THat is great! I agree it may not work for girls, I always loved getting into the boy toys! But my boys are 4 and 1, so using Dora may still be nice!
How To Help A Choking Pet
Thank you for posting this article....by the grace of God I have not had to go through this yet, though my large dog loves rawhide and tennis balls (which he normally breaks in half!) Its funny how we will go through classes for human first aid, but may not...
Laundry Soap and Greywater Systems?
It isnt so much the soap, but the borates and chlorines used, I switched to Shaklee Basic L, which has a washing soda base, and my kids skin looks better, plus it goes a long way!
Comodes With Artificial Flowers?
I think it is connected to the invasion of Mutant Monarch Butterflies on some peoples houses (I have seen these two decorations together unfortunately!) and flamingoes migrating to northern front yards!
How Do You Clean Velcro Straps?
THis may sound weird, but when I was in elementary school, with velcro shoes ;) I used to clean them with a dolls comb or fine mens comb
Help My Hydrangea?
I would wait, until next fall....When I moved to Oregon and saw mine in the back yard, I was confused! I had never had experience with them, all I knew was that certain amounts of phosphorous in the soil changes the color. Well, about a month after I got here...
Something to Plant in Cracks in Pavement?
clover would be the easiest (creeping charlie) They tend to grow everywhere, and youll get some flowers.
Uses for Empty Babywipe Containers?
Now I reuse the one that came in a gift pack for my youngest (Ive used it for 15 months.....that is a lot of wipes!) But when my older one was born, I bought Baby Magic wipes, because I trust their formula, and the box looks like blocks, so we bought the containers...
Poll: Have you made your own baby food?
I would buy frozen veggies with no salt in the ingredients, cook until just done, then blend in the blender (add water from cooking) and freeze in ice cube trays, 2 cubes: one serving (and add one cube more as they grow) We also did this with arroz con pollo...
Hide the Popcorn Game for Dogs
I do this with the ballie, but we only feed Charlie popcorn from our hands (to bond with the boys) My son likes to make him work for it by following him all over the house! I also make him sniff out the kids (when they are in another room or area of the house...
Poll: Do you use coupons?
I bought a little plastic expando-file at walmart for coupons, and separate them by month of expiration. When I make up my shopping list (from a file on my computer) I go through coupons and put a star by the item on my list to remind me of it. When I am at...
Plumping Up a Head Rest on Chair?
I take it there is no zipper underneath to adjust the stuffing....My DH leaves these on our cushions (the casing starts sagging forward! I shake them out and punch them occasionally to keep up with the pulling (my son likes to use them as slides too!) Maybe...
Laundry Coated With Paper?
I end up doing this, with tissue! I usually just throw it in the dryer because the lint trap takes most of it. And I dont know about it until I open the dryer! I shake off and brush whatever isnt removed. If you have to drip dry, wait until the item is completely...
Making Animals Out Of Towels?
That brings back memories, there was a nice restaurant in Key West were a waiter made me a napkin rabbit when I was 4 or 5 years old.....never thought about it until I saw this post...thanks!
Using Laundry Tablets When Traveling?
All in the mini bottle works great (and has perfume dye free); When our family had to live in a motel during a fire, I used baby wash and hospital shampoo to clean out clothes. Got EVERYTHING OUT! My little one was two months old, so I mean all fluids/solids...
Used Electronics at Thrift Shops
What a lot of people dont know, is that small kitchen appliances are tested, so if it doesnt work, you can usually get your money back....ask before you buy!
Shrinking Denim Jeans?
Are you sure you cant return them? I have returned jeans I wore after the baby (for two months) and got a smaller size. As long as the tags are legible, and tell them what is up....even if you get all minus 10-20% it can go to a less expensive pair!
Mystery Shopping Links?
Try www.mysteryshopperservices.com they will send you e-mails when jobs are in your area. Also try http://www.mysteryshop.org/ they are the national org and will show everything about starting plus links for area jobs and extra training. Just remember, NEVER...
Diaper for a Dog in Heat?
I have seen them at Wal-mart...at least for housebreaking, but they may work for heat. Or call your vet, they may have samples?
Diaper for a Dog in Heat?
If you have a baby gate (they can be relatively cheap) corral her in the bathroom or kitchen, that way it is easier to clean and she wont be miserable in a kennel.
Mystery Shopping Links?
A mystery shopper is someone who is hired by a company or independent agency to go out and evaluate a store/company (customer service, cleanliness, etc) posing as a customer. Some require you to purchase items, and some just ask you to look interested. You...
Cleaning Knick Knacks
I bought a nipple/lid holder for the dishwasher: the nipples sit on top (the lid) and the basket holds rings/lids/sippy cup tops. It was 3 bucks by Safety First. I used it with the heat dry to sterilize my bottles, and now I use it for little things I dont...
Cleaning No Wax Floors
Will that provide enough to kill bacteria, or should it be full strength? I dont want to use ammonia or bleach if I dont have to (baby and dog.)
Do I Need a Coffee Table?
I would say try out a trunk or ottoman, just to see. Most people I know have one for drinks (and feet!) My husband likes to eat in the living room AGAINST my wishes, so I do not want to encourage it. I have always used a trunk to store games and blankets. I...
Bad Smell in New Apartment?
It might be the ventilation system, is it at certain times of the day? I lived in an upstairs apartment, and our downstairs neighbor was cooking pork chops. The smell came through our bathroom, and I thought our dog pooped in the kids room! We also smelled...
Wisconsin Vacation Ideas?
Wisconsin Dells (should have info on their state travel website) is home to the house on the rock It is built into a bluff, and has EVERYTHING you can imagine. I cannot begin to describe it, but you can literally spend a whole day, and it is like a museum, storybook...
Our Energy Bill Keeps Going Up?
Do you plug in your cars? We did in Alaska, and Dec-Feb were KILLER! But you couldnt start your car without doing it! also, check your exterior plugs for neighbors leeching!
Bad Smell in New Apartment?
The Ionic Breeze (sharper image) is awesome! My inlaws got that because they have two birds and two bulldogs and a DUSTY house. They only have to dust once a week and NO PROBLEMS with the dust from birds. It is supposed to work great for animal odors (and it...
Finding Change in Various Places
It also ends up in your pantry as well meaning but never eaten canned goods! My husband bought some greenbeans (heavy salt) and fruit cocktail, and didnt touch it for 3 months. THe kids and I dont eat it, so I took it back to the store: $ 4.60 store credit...
Making Cookies for People With Allergies?
Thanks for the information.....when I was pregnant with my second child, I was too lazy to make my own cookie dough, and bought the Pillsbury dough with hersheys kisses...well as my mom was baking them for my older son, I read the back and saw the main ingredient...
Making Cookies for People With Allergies?
Thank you....because of that, I may offer normal mix, but then alter as requested.
Homeschool Group Party?
Well, you could do What Easter Means to Me? and still have easter basket goodies. Even at 14, it is still nice to have a surprise, just tailored a little more to your age. Maybe 5-10 dollar gift cards or plants to grow.
Giving Medicine to a Cat?
Is the taste/smell strong? Maybe mix it with a little tuna juice? the strong smell may cover it, and what cat could resist?
What Type of Plant Is This? (Giant Scilla, Pruvain...
Are the buds a deep pink..almost look like a bleeding heart? it looks like what I have in my yard!
Stains from Tissue Paper on a Wedding Dress?
I assume it is white...drycleaners have a professional process called whiting....it is safe for delicate fabrics, and they USUALLY have some sort of guarantee. We had to do this with age/mud spots on a dress, and it looked fantastic, even for being ivory.
Avoiding Checkout Surprise
I always round up, used to for taxes, now just to be safe. I itemize my list and put everything mandatory in the cart while keeping track mentally or in the calculator. My list is separated by category, then I write down amounts/sizes and do NOT deviate unless...
Recipes Using Dry Milk?
Dry milk is great on hand for emergencies, we mix it up when whole milk for the baby is getting low, or use it exclusively for baking (we go through 1 gallon every two-three days, especially when I make cc cookies!) You can use it as a base for homemade hot...
Bring Food to the Office
There are actually a lot of good foods that you can store in a desk. When I was pregnant, working with an hour commute (oneway) and had gestational diabetes, I ALWAYS had to keep food stored away. Here are some shelf safe foods: boxed milk (even hersheys chocolate...
Hiding the Easter Goodies
I keep them in an extra oatmeal can in the cupboard, behind the one being used (I am the only one that cooks it) Or save an old coffee can. For hot weather, the freezer is great! I just hide things behind the vegetables!
Recipes Using Dry Milk?
thanks for posting the hot cocoa mix....all the other ones I found had the coffee creamer or nesquick....I never have these on hand!
Gift for Mom Joke
ROFL...I love it! Sounds like something my momma would do! Or me! PS. My in laws have an Amazon Green Parrot....that eats chicken!
Urine Smell on Toddler's Clothing After Being Washed?
If vinegar doesnt work, try 1/2 cup pine-sol. It disinfects and deoderizes. Happened to me when the borax wasnt enough!
Urine Smell on Toddler's Clothing After Being Washed?
OH! I forgot to add...you need to double rinse the pine-sol, just to be safe!
NOTES on My Frig
Or my other favorite.... Dear Lord, Please help me to be the human my dog thinks I am!
Poll: Does your family eat seafood?
That is good to know....my husband had gout last year, because of his love for sausage!
Can I Use a Broom on My Pergo Floor?
My in-laws got in their old house....you can use a nylon broom or vacuum w/floor head attachment, but dont let water set...to be sure, check with the manufacture reccomendations.
Cleaning Textured Appliances?
I use a microfiber cloth with plainwater for fresh spills, or dishsoap, and with Murphys oil or Mr.clean for nasty build up...but only on the outside! For hinges and hard to reach, I keep an old toothbrush with my cleaning supplies and dip it in cleaner.
Microfiber Cleaning System For Wood Floors?
To get through the gunk, Murphys oil soap is one of the best (vegetable oil based) or use the water/vinegar if the finish is old. Lemon Juice is another that kills bacteria, but is even SAFER.
Cleaning and Whitening Finger Nails
A little safer is Hydrogen peroxide and a cotton swab. I discovered this while whitening my teeth and it dribbled ;) You can use a whitening pencil sold in the manicure/pedicure section of all drug stores. It is not as pretty, but works in a tight pinch!
Leftover Arepas?
What diameter are they? I think they would be great for a breakfast buritto (with leftover picadillo - seasoned hamburger) Or freeze and pop in the toaster?
Maintaining a White Microfiber Sofa?
You could get/make a slipcover for it, I do that in the summer for mine. Even though it is a brown/green, every bit of dog hair shows up! And I allow popcorn on it, so we have to do something! Microfiber, even white is surprisingly easy to clean! Just make...
Aromatherapy for Dogs?
Tea Tree Oil is the best for skin irratationa, odor, and I believe earmites/ticks (there is a related post on homemade pet meds) Be sure to water it down, as it can be potendt. Garlic and Brewers yeast mixed in food and homemade biscuits are great in repelliing...
Substitute for Baby Wipes
If you boil the water first, that helps retard mildew/bacteria growth. I used to make my own baby wipes, and it made a difference! We also had chlorinated water, which hurts your skin/membranes more than the soap!
What Is This Tree? (Ornamental Plum Tree)
Yummy, looks like plums! When did the fruit ripen? Are the pits oval shaped? My landlords planted some in the front of our house, and I am always finding little sprouts (I give them to our neighbor) They are a slim tree and our fruit ripened in July. We are...
What Is This Tree? (Ornamental Plum Tree)
I have only lived here since end of August, so I am still taking notes of what is going on with trees/plantings. A bird may have planted (haha) the seedlings, or may have been from what you have eaten at one time. Ill keep you posted this spring as to what...
Poll: Do you grow any of your own fruits and vegetables?
Actually, I have an apple and plum tree that the landlords put in our yard, so I am taking care of them! I am looking at getting the patio strawberries & blueberries (to keep away from deer) and a dwarf lemon tree for my kitchen, which gets a lot of sun.
Homemade Draino?
The safest and cheapest is equal amounts of white vinegar and bakingsoda, then pouring boiling hot water. The chemical reaction of the soda and vinegar will break up/loosen ANYTHING and the hot water will help push it through. I get alot of hair clogs, and...
Paying Off Debt With My Retirement?
Remember, youll have to pay taxes on any that you take out of your retirement. I had to do that with mine, and now I have none because I stay home (my husband has switched too much to start up an employer based. We are still under 30, and in debt! Our finances...
Self Cleaning Feature Stains the Oven?
My Maytag does that, there are vents under the lock. Yesterday I was disgusted (lots of grease too?) and I doused it with window cleaner and scrubbed with a tooth brush, then detailed with q-tips. I eventually got the handle clean, but there is still a yellow...
Self Cleaning Feature Stains the Oven?
I just tried the lighter fluid (ronosol) and barely made a dent! It got some gunk off, but did nothing for the stain. My model isnt available for on-line brochure, so Ill have to look more into it later.
Self Cleaning Feature Stains the Oven?
I ran out of my Murphys or Id be using that too! Yes (guess I had a blonde moment) and that should work! I clean EVERYTHING with that too, especially the parts of our center car console, my hubby couldnt believe it when I did it, and makes the best carwash...
Dangers From Using Teflon Pans?
They are definitely dangerous for birds, and others with high sensitivity (asthma) because of the particles breaking off and release of chemicals in the air. My inlaws have an African Grey and Green Amazon Parrots, and their vets warned them to stay away. I...
Welding Cap Pattern?
I was curious, my DH is into welding (but we dont have a welder!) so I yahooeed welding cap and found..... http://www.blueroseweb.com/welding_cap_patterns.php Company is Quilting Bs Custom It is 10 dollars for the pattern, instructions and unlimited e-mail...
Low-Carb, Sugar Free, Flour Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Splenda is made with Sucralose (generic name) I dont know of any other products using it as a sweetner outright, but more and more products are being used with it. To date it is the safest carb free sugar. It is sugar that has been treated to be carb free. I...
Cleaning With Ivory Soap Flakes
Please be careful if you have respiratory/sinus problems; the grated soap is DUSTY and gets up your nose! My son still has reactions to the borax, so I switched to Shaklee Basic - L, it is more powerful than any sold in stores! There are no phosphates, borates...
Cloudy Coffee?
I have sediment built up in mine, between well water in AK, Wichita KS water, and all that, and after 4 years it is finally sluggish (I do vinegar once a month) And I notice a difference when they chlorinate the water once a month, in taste and cloudiness. Check...
Cloudy Coffee?
Well, the town I live in bills you for water use, so if yours does that there should be a number, otherwise look under Wastewater or Public Works in the blue section (government) of the phone book.
Grease Build Up on Oven Control Panel?
My husband uses lighter fluid (like for Zippos) We had a gas stove in a house we bought, and my husband cleaned off the top with windex, then got the trouble gunk with lighter fluid (let it set for 30 sec) and it looked brand new!
Stains From Rawhide Dog Bone on Microfiber?
I have that kind of sofa...try Folex stain remover (bottom shelf at walmart with the rug cleaners) It works great for rawhide on carpet, so I am sure it will work on that. It is safe for pets, and you just rub it in (test a hidden area first) Rawhide is a bugger...
Removing Burnt Grease from Copper Bottom Pans?
Barkeepers friend is great, and it also helps with rust spots too. A large can is under 80 cents at walmart and will last a long time!
Mop Reviews?
Actually, you need to twist it, i made the mistake of just pushing it down, but it is just a no mess way of wring twisting. I love the chamois material of the mop, after I got through that step (my husband pointed it out the first time I used it) then Id never...
In Praise of Windex
We used it all the time at the kitchen store I worked at, gets coffee stains off EVERYTHING! But, I end up using store brand, and I think it works just as well, except for removing adhesive. Wal-marts is usually a dollar for both spray and refill.
Recipe for Pork Roast?
For Pork Roast...... Marination is your best bet for moisture...and lots of basting. Maybe get an injector for flavor. And cook it to 160.....Pork needs to rest, it will keep cooking after you take it off the heat, so dont worry if it registers on the low side...
Recipe for Pork Roast?
Sorry, then broil on high uncovered for 10 minutes for crispiness. We do this for Thanksgiving every year! Great for sandwiches too!
Apartment Living
Actually, basements are great (though we did go through the flooding, that is a fact of life! The downstairs is greatly insulated for temp and sound, and in Tornado Alley it is nice to be safe! We would have a little party with snacks and movie on tv and didnt...
Poll: What new feature would you most like to see on ThriftyFun?
I would love to see a way to save tips/recipes on our accounts! I sometimes write them down for the kitchen, and they end up disappearing or turning into an airplane ;)
Making Chocolate at Home?
I am not sure what you mean. You can order bulk supplies of both on-line. Dark Chocolate has the lowest amount of milk added to it.
Saving Money on Major Purchases
check the open box or clearance section first...and Walmart usually keeps their dented open Box stuff by customer service/layaway. It is like a thrift store, if you come back it may not be there!
Keeping Warm When the Thermostat is Down
Because our large windows face east and west, we turn down our heat during the day and let the sun warm up the house (averages 40-50 degreesoutside, even on rainy days) but we keep the house at 65 during the day, then turn the thermostat up to 70 when the LAST...
Dealing With High Energy Costs?
We keep the theromostat at 65 and let the sun warm up the house during the day. It stays insulated enough to keep the house warm at night, especially when we close the blinds. everyone has blankets and the baby wears sleepers. THey are naturally warm, so daytime...
Poll: How often do you eat at restaurants each month?
We eat out at restaurants less than 4 times a year (BIG OCCASION) but once a month well hit a drive through for emergency meal. The kids usually split a meal, or I share with the baby (hes 1) and a kids meal for big boy. I discovered at Subway with feeding...
Battery Charger Reviews?
Can you charge other (current) batteries, or only use the ones it comes with/reccommends? How much does the Energizer kind usually sell for?
Duct Tape Purse and Clutch
FYI: Alaska is one of the biggest users of duct tape: there is an annual ball in the summer in Anchorage...Gowns are judged and must be completely made of duct tape!
Littleman (English Bulldog)
Hes a handsome one! My husbands Darby ORose passed on five years ago, after catching a streetsweeper....we are thinking of buying one, but him and my oldest are allergic to shorthair dogs!
Opening Jars with Arthritic Hands
My blessed hubby taught me a trick...flip the jar over and pound with the palm of your hand until you hear a thud (thats an air bubble?) then try, it usually gets it. If it dont work the first time, run the lid under HOT water, dry good, and that heat will...
Cleaning Shortcuts?
WHen you mop, sit on the kitchen chair (or office chair, whatever.) I did that when my back went out, and after the babies. Also, looking at volunteers, or even barter/pay low fee for cleaning help. Oh...saw on t.v. lastnight, scrubbing bubbles has a new system...
Diet Cookbooks and Programs
The one my hubby has had great luck with is the Zone, which basically is common sense (eat your oatmeal and veggies!) Very similar to French cooking, and keep portions sensible. Of courcse, everyone has to make a buck, but the cookbooks explain so much and...
Blowing Out Candles on the Cake
If you think boxed cakes are bad...imagine homemade..with little kids! I cant tell you how many times I have found HAIR in my own! (My hair is falling out, and Ive cut it as short as I can!) I am ready for hairnets! Also, little kids taste testing behind your...
How Did Our Ancestors Do Their Laundry?
Before my second son was born, and I had to do laundry at the laundry mat, I made my own mixing 1:1 Borax and grated bar soap (one-two tablespoons goes a long way!) I always use warm or hot water to wash, so everything dissolved, but whites were a little dingy...
Alternatives to Band Aids?
If you have a nut allergy of any kind, then you are probably latex sensitive.....new skin is good, like glue. Or guaze and tape is next best. The only brand I can use is Curad, but it sounds like yours is more severe.
Keeping Coffee Grounds out of the Pot
You can also invest in one of those goldfilters, or permanent filters. Wash out with baking soda once a month or week, depending how much you brew, and you never have to worry about flimsy filters letting grounds go through. Most new makers come with them now...
Alternatives to a Gift Registry?
I think that is great to give that choice. Alot of older relatives (or ones with little ones) may not have the time to go to a store, only to have the registry not updated and you are stuck with 3 woks! That also helps relieve the stress of having to return...
Cleaning a Broom?
While mopping (with Mr. Clean for now) I let it soak in the bucket. Some times Ill soak it in diluted bleach over night if it is REAL bad
Removing Cooking Odors from Hands
lemon juice gets out garlic & onion quick....just be sure you dont have cuts ;)
Oatmeal Instead of Cold Cereal
We buy the quick oats for baking and quick hot cereal. My little boys eat them with applesauce and cinnamon sugar (Oatmeal apple pie) I try bananas, but wont do it! I like just brown sugar. We bought the 5 minute rolled oats, but couldnt get through them fast...
Reusing Juice Concentrate Bottles
I got that study in my RealAge tips newsletter....I use it once for freezing, then recycle them or use them for non-ingestive uses (like storing items). I figure if it is an emergency, Id rather take my chances!
The Best Apples for Baking?
I like fujis or Gala, but the best canned I have found are at wal-mart....Great Value (or whatever the brand is) sweetened with splenda (NO acesulfame potassium or Nutrasweet!) Just add your cinnamon, nutmeg, etc. and it is not too sweet, just a lot of flavor...
The Best Apples for Baking?
Sorry....I mentioned the canned because the wm ones averaged 1.20 per can, much cheaper than purchasing the apples for the pie! This fall, I have an apple tree (unknown, tart) that I hope to use for many pies and kuchen!
Teaching Responsibility and Accountability to PreTeens and Teens
I never got an allowance, but when we had money, I got paid to do extra jobs (like yard work, shoveling snow) I learned about money from babysitting and stretching the money. I think after my boys reach 10 well start paying for extra jobs (some you just have...
Urine Stained Grout?
The best thing I have used is pine-sol for cleaning up around the white grout, and deoderizing. Bleach just seems to make the smell worse, and does not go away! I mop at least twice a week between my husband and 4 year old, plus the new whizzer in training...
Dear Tech Support Joke
nosexforaweek 10.1 will cause the Blue Screen of Death....NOT WORTH IT! He may feel he doesnt need to operate the same anymore (working to support a new family overtakes the romance, especially if he is very traditional) A lot of men use sports and hobbies...
