Using Borax in a Litter Box?
If you use the clumping type litter and change it frequently, there should be no smell and you will not need to use Borax.
Ivy (German Shorthair Pointer)
What a cute picture! We had two German Shorthairs many years ago when our boys were little. One had liver and white patches and the other one was black and white, just like Ivy. They are such beautiful dogs. We would love to have one now, but they need to be...
Removing Cigarette Odor from Yarn?
Try adding one cup of ammonia to the wash water. This doesnt harm regular fabrics, but I dont know how it would work with wool. You could try it with one or two skeins of the wool just to see the result. I tried everything to remove cigarette smoke odor from...
Cover on Dishwasher Dispenser Broken Off?
I have been using mine without a cover for years and it works just fine.
Surviving on the Blind Side
Jo - your articles are so uplifting and a reminder to all of us to be thankful for the things that most of us take for granted. Keep up the good work!
Wrap Green Tomatoes to Ripen
This is a great way to ripen green tomatoes. I read this tip somewhere last year and it really does work. We have just finished wrapping about 30 lbs green tomatoes. Our Summer was late getting started, so hopefully we will be enjoying fresh tomatoes for another...
Getting More Veggies into Your Kid's Diet
Another way to get veggies into kids, is to remove them from the soup or stew and blend in the blender with some of the liquid. This way they get all the veggies without realizing it. My veggie-hating kids always remarked how good the gravy was. Good Luck!
Avoid Using Aluminum Foil
Maybe I am missing something, but I dont get the connection between aluminum foil and elbow grease.
Best Cat Litter for Odor Control?
I agree with Deeli - the scoopable or clumping litter is definitely the answer to smelly litterbox problems. It works out to be cheaper than the regular kind because you dont have to empty it out completely - just scoop out the clumps of soiled litter. Walmart...
Freezing Marrow?
Are you referring to the vegetable marrows that are grown in England. Here in the States we have a smaller version called Zucchini. It does not freeze well as it contains a lot of water. Maybe someone will know of another method of preserving it.
Apple Cake
It sounds so good, but I too, would like to know what size pan. It doesnt seem like there are enough ingredients for a l3 x 9 pan. Thanks for sharing.
Where Can I Buy Caster Sugar and Dessicated Coconut?
Unsweetened coconut can sometimes be found in the freezer section at grocery stores, usually with the frozen fruit. As stated by a previous poster, caster sugar is not powdered sugar. I have never seen it in grocery stores in the U.S. bit its used a lot in...
Helping a Cat Transition at a New Home?
I feel for you having to give up your precious kitty. I am sure the family who bred him will take good care of him and eventually he will enjoy having other cats to play with. I am sure his new family will keep in touch and let you know how he is doing. Best...
Best Aerobics CDs?
I have a great walking video called Walk Away the Pounds with Leslie Sansone. Its a four in one video with a l, 2, 3 and four mile walk. You can start off gently if you are out of shape or elderly, like me, or go straight for the 4 mile super challenge. I found...
Cleaning Dog Hair Off Wood Floors?
Make sure to brush your dog every day, this will help. Also, animals tend to shed more in the Spring. Hopefully it wont be so bad when Summer arrives.
Getting Out of Debt
Back in the olden days, before there were such things as credit cards, people somehow survived, no matter how poor. Of course, there were no such things as bills for cable TV, cell phones or internet, and no fast-food restaurants. Those things have all made...
Stovetop Rice Pudding Recipe?
Cook the rice as usual but add a little more water so that the rice becomes softer. Then add sugar, cinnamon or nutmeg to taste. Add enough milk (evaporated is really good) to make it to the texture you like and you have an easy rice pudding. Maybe not as creamy...
Home Remedy for Constipated Cats?
Add about a tablespoon of canned pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling) to some canned cat food. Our cat thinks its a real treat. It really helps with their digestion.
Store Food Waste in Freezer
I do this all the time. It prevents having smelly garbage smells either in the house or outside in the garbage can - possibly attracting flies. It takes up little space in the freezer and uses no extra power - you are using the freezer anyway. Just remember...
Beware Self Cleaning Feature On GE Oven
I have had GE ovens for many years and the self cleaning feature always runs for about three hours, so the information this repair man gave you just isnt correct. Definitely write or call the manufacturer. They should know when their products dont work properly...
Kids Not Wearing Underwear?
I guess I am a Mrs. Grundy, but I definitely vote for underwear. Cant imagine anything more uncomfortable and unhygenic than wearing denim without underwear. Also, little girls love to swing and hang upside down on monkey bars, etc. Imagine how she will be...
Crockpot Lasagna
Is the one hour cooking time correct? If you cook it on low for 8 hours - seems like it would take longer than one hour on high. Just wondering. Sounds like an interesting recipe though.
Dog Bed for a Dog That Chews?
Does he have plenty of chew toys so he wont feel the need to chew his bed? I found that the nylabone dog bones worked well for our dog. They are more expensive than the rawhide bones, but last much longer and are safer as they cannot be ingested like the rawhide...
Remedies for Weak and Thin Fingernails?
If you are not already taking fish oil capsules, you might give them a try. They certainly helped my weak nails.
Boy (Cat)
What a handsome kitty. He looks so comfortable planted in the flower pot. give him a big hug from me. Joan
White Synthetics Turn Gray in the Wash?
Are you washing your white clothes separately? If white clothes are washed with dark colors it might be that they are picking up dye from the dark colored clothes. You might try googling this question - I am sure you would get some good suggestions. Good luck...
Ten More Lessons from the Blind Side
Hi Jo: I am overwhelmed when I read your Peeks into the blind side. You truly are an inspiration to everyone. More hugs from Joan
Urine Stains and Odors on Clothing?
Try putting the clothes through a cold rinse before washing them. This removes stains and odors. Good luck!
Thawing the Tubing for an Icemaker?
Turn off the power to the refrigerator and use the hair dryer for 2 or 3 minutes, then see if it works. I had to do it a couple of times but it did thaw out the water line. I guess it depends on just how frozen it is.
Scenery: Winter Splendor in the Park
Beautiful picture! Best viewed from the inside! Another Michigander
Steamed Carrot Pudding Too Dry?
I would try substituting butter or margarine for the suet. I dont know about Canada, but here in the States I have never been able to find genuine suet and it could be that your pudding is lacking in fat. I have had success making Christmas pudding without...
Cynder (American Staffordshire Terrier)
What a lovely dog, and a beautiful story too! Isnt it amazing what our animal friends can do for us. Best wishes to you both.
How to Temporarily Fix a Cracked Ceiling
What a great example you set and to be able to do this with one weak arm is amazing. I hope your temporary repair lasts forever! Good luck to you. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Be Flexible with Holiday Celebration Dates
It is so nice to hear of families that work things out so they can spend time together, even if its not on the actual holiday. Heres wishing you and your daughters a very happy holiday season. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Bridal Shower Gift Ideas?
Check the bridal dept. of your local department stores to see if the bride is registered there. That way you will be able to purchase something she wants and keep within your price range. Most brides today register at a local store.
Treatment for Worn Out Knees?
If the cartilage in your knees has worn thin (or disappeared altogether), the only solution is a knee replacement. I spent years trying everything from glucosamine to shots to therapy, but finally had to resort to total knee replacements. I can finally walk...
Making Tuna Salad?
As you can see from the previous posts, you can add just about anything you like to Tuna salad. Everyone has their favorites, mine is finely chopped onion and celery and just enough Miracle Whip to bind it together. Enjoy!
Homemade Jet Dry Recipe?
Fill your rinse dispenser with plain vinegar - no need for expensive rinses. Your dishes will shine and so will your dishwasher.
Can You Buy the Powdered Cheese as Sold in Boxed Mac and Cheese?
You might be able to find it where they have the packages of gravies and sauce mixes, it seems like there would be a cheese sauce mix. Good luck!
Mason (Boxer/Lab Mix)
Mason is beautiful! You feel so sad for animals when they lose their Parents but how lucky he is to now have such a caring family. Of course you are lucky to have him. Give him a hug from me. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Pooh Bear (Border Collie Mix)
What a great picture! Pooh Bear looks like shes the Chairman of the Board, about to deal with some very important business. Give her a hug when the meetings over. Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Alternate Uses for Dental Floss
Be careful when using mint-flavored dental floss if you have cats. Apparently they like the flavor! A friends cat who had been very healthy, suddenly became sick and died. An autopsy showed that dental floss was wrapped around her intestines and they had become...
What Breed is My Dog?
I dont know what breed Dexter is, but he is just as cute as can be. Give him a big hug and enjoy him. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Feeding a 5 Week Old Puppy?
If you are giving him rice pudding with milk and sugar in it, that is not good for him. Try mixing some plain boiled rice in with the puppy food. Also, talk to your vet, he should be able to advise you. Good Luck. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Paddy (Labrador - Terrier)
What a plucky little dog and SO cute! Lucky for him that you rescued him and lucky for you too to have him in your life. Give him a hug from me. Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Litter Box Odor?
Definitely use the clumping or scoop-able litter. Walmart carries a brand called Special Kitty. It is less than $6.00 for 28 lbs and lasts for ages. As another poster said, you only remove the clumps, not the whole pan of litter, so it lasts a long time - and...
How Can I Clean or Renew Paper Lamp Shades?
I have the same type of accordian type lampshade and a friend told me to put it in a sink (or bathtub) and sponge it off with soapy water. Dont saturate it, just sponge it lightly. The dirt just rolled off! Rinse and let dry. The shade looked like new. Hope...
Making the Pastry for Eclairs?
The recipe for eclair dough uses one stick (4oz) butter or margarine. When cooked and cooled, cut off the tops of the eclairs and remove the soft filling from inside. This will ensure that the eclairs are crispy and not doughy inside.
Recipes for Feeding a Family Inexpensively?
How about meat loaf l lb. each ground beef and ground turkey l cup oatmeal (use more to stretch it further) l finely chopped onion l egg l small can tomato sauce salt and pepper to taste Mix all together and form into a loaf. Bake on top of broiler pan so that...
Cooking Lamb in a Slow Roaster?
I agree with Arby. Slow cookers are for less expensive cuts of meat. Leg of Lamb would be much better cooked in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes per lb.
Big Bird (Sulphur Crested Cockatoo)
Hi Vicky: You have done a wonderful job with Big Bird - thank goodness you rescued him! Just shows what love and patience can do. Best wishes to you and your husband and, of course, Big Bird. Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Quillie (Hedgehog)
Now thats an unusual pet. Bet you have to pick him up carefully..He is really cute!
Comparing Weight Loss Programs?
Weight Watchers is a great program and one that you can stay on for ever. It really teaches you to think about what and how much you eat. The question I have about Jenny Craig and similar programs is - what do you eat when you stop ordering their food? I assume...
Making Brownies Without Eggs?
The brownie mix and black bean recipe is from Weight Watchers and is pretty good. When you remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle some chocolate chips (about l/4 cup) over the hot brownies, allow them to melt a little, then spread them over the brownies for...
Ice Maker Not Getting Water?
We had the same problem with the water dispenser and it was a blockage (frozen) in the water line. The repair man said there was nothing he could do, but suggested we turn off the refrigerator for a while and see if that fixed it. We turned it off for about...
Aloe Vera for Acne
Aloe vera is great for so many skin problems. If you cant find a plant, you can buy pure aloe vera gel in the drug stores or grocery stores. Make sure you get the pure gel and not a lotion, as that will not have sufficient aloe in it to be effective.
Bob (Chihuahua and Pomeranian Mix)
Best wishes to you, Christy. Bob looks like he is just what you need to get you through this difficult time.
Flapjacks for Teatime Treat
Golden syrup can sometimes be found in the Imported foods section of the supermarket in the U.S. It has a different flavor than corn or maple syrup and I dont think they would be a good substitute. Actually, I think molasses would be better if you cant find...
Buying Bar Keeper's Friend?
You will find it in the cleaning supplies aisle at the grocery store. It is usually next to Comet and other scouring powders. It is great for all kinds of cleaning. Good luck!
Family: Robin's First Grandchild
He is a gorgeous baby, Robin. Bet you cant wait to bake cookies for him! Congratulations to you and your family!
Grammar Tip: "Than" vs "Then"
I was sure I would see my pet peeve here! It drives me crazy when a recipe calls for a certain number of tablespoonfuls instead of tablespoonsful. Glad I am not the only Thrifty Fun member of the Grammar Police! lol
Using Ready Made Custard in Fruit Tarts?
In the U.S. custard and pudding are two different things. Custard is always made with eggs and pudding is made from a cornstarch base - such as vanilla pudding, chocolate, etc. The ready made pudding that you can buy in the States is very similar to ready made...
Fish Pie
This takes me back to my childhood . Havent made it in years but now I know how I will fix the fish for dinner tonight. Thanks Lucy! Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Back to School Lunches?
When you make meatloaf for dinner, save some for their sandwiches the next day. Add some pickles or whatever seasonings they like. Also send some carrot or celery sticks. You can do the same with leftover chicken or whatever leftover meat you have on hand.
Using Less Dishwasher Detergent
The soap dispenser on my dishwasher is not working. It will not lock, therefore the detergent is dispensed at the very beginning of the cycle. Does anyone know if this makes any difference to the cleaning process? Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Weight Watchers 3-3-3 Diet Plan?
Hy Cyndy; It sounds like you are having trouble understanding the weight watchers points system. Why dont you tell your leader that you are having trouble. I joined Weight Watchers last May and lost 20 lbs by the end of September. I think you will find the...
Sweet Pastry
Just a correction here. Corn flour is not the same as cornmeal. It is Corn Starch here in the U.S. Joan from Chesterfield,Michigan (b)Editors Note:(/b) Thanks Joan. You are correct, it is corn starch. Ive added it to the instructions above.
Substitute for Chocolate Chips in Recipes?
Dark chocolate in the US is the same as plain chocolate in Europe. Cadbury makes a dark chocolate bar (how about Nestles) - maybe you could get them in Malta. Freeze them first, then grate or break into small pieces. We also make chocolate chunk cookies - which...
Dublin Coddle
If only we could get authentic Irish sausages and bacon here in the U.S. (just reminiscing!)
Ripening Green Tomatoes Inside
We tried wrapping the green tomatoes in newspaper when we were going away in September and still had loads of green tomatoes. I expected to find a box of moldy tomatoes when we returned, but to my surprise, they were ripening beautifully. We were still eating...
Weight Loss Tips?
I also suggest Weight Watchers. I know they are in England and if there is not one close to you, the program is online. They stress healthy foods and exercise. In addition to losing weight you will find that your cholesterol and blood pressure levels will come...
Nino (Yorkie/Poodle)
Another thumbs up for Nino. He is adorable. Sorry the thumbs up link is not working.
Fat Free Sugar Free Salad Dressing Recipe?
I use Good Seasons Italian dressing. It is a dry mix that you mix up yourself. It calls for vinegar, water and oil but I use very little oil and increase the water and vinegar. I also add a teaspoon of Splenda. Its really quite good and if you use olive or...
Recipes for WW2 Sweets?
I was a child in England during WWII. Mostly our desserts were made with local fruit, such as apples and plums and our meager sugar ration would go for sweetening them. However, I believe when you say sweets you are referring to what we call candy here in the...
Chloe and Her Friend Gambler (Horse)
What a beautiful picture.It is amazing how animals can help make the tough times in life easier to bear. Hope things get better for you and your family and that Chloe is always able to stay in touch with her horse.
Sticky Rice Recipe?
Sticky rice is not overcooked rice, it is a special kind of rice. You can buy it at a Korean grocery store. My daughter-in-law is Korean and thats where she buys her rice. I noticed on the package that it is actually grown in California, so you shouldnt have...
Dog Has Dry Poop?
Try adding a couple of Tablespoons of canned pumpkin (NOT pie filling) to their food. It helps with digestion.
Winslow (Lab/Pointer)
Winslow is so cute and reminds me of a Lab/Pointer mix puppy we had years ago. He was also black with white spots and had a one-of-a-kind personality. Give Winslow a big hug for me. Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Old Fashioned School Salad Dressing?
Have you tried Good Seasons Italian dressing mix? It is a dry mix in an envelope. You just add oil and vinegar and I add a teaspoon of splenda (or sugar). It is the only Italian style dressing I like and I use a little extra vinegar and water and less oil - that...
Igloos
A Swiss roll is what we call a Jelly Roll here in the U.S. Sounds like a good recipe - cant wait to try it. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Dobey (Golden Retriever)
Dobey (and your daughter) are beautiful! What would we do without our furry friends. Best wishes.
Isabella (Siamese Mix)
Isabella is gorgeous. She obviously owns the house just like most cats and chooses the most comfortable spots to snooze!
Using a Water Pic?
I have a mouthful of Crowns which my dentist told me could last up to 20 years - if I was lucky and took care of them. Well its now 30 years and I have never had one problem! I attribute this to always using a water pik. My current dentist tells me that its...
Easy Peasy Cheesy Pudding
This sound like a real easy recipe - one that I can make for my cheese-loving husband who doesnt get many cheesey dishes as I dont like it. lol Thanks, Doreen. (English) Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Brown Bugs Eating My Flowers?
Many thanks, Foxrun. They are definitely Japanese beetles. The link you suggested was very helpful.
Canning Mint Sauce?
I dont knoew about canning mint sauce, but if you make up a large batch it will keep indefinitely in the refrigerator. The vinegar keeps it fresh. Try freezing a small amount and see if it/s O.K. then you could keep it in the freezer. Joan from Chesterfield...
WWII Parsley Honey
Sounds interesting! Remember that a pint in England is 20 ozs. not l6 ozs. as it is in the U.S.
What Breed is My Dog?
I dont know what breed of dog she is - but she sure is cute. She was so lucky you found her and adopted her, but I am sure you feel lucky to have her.
Apricot, Pecan and Pear Pudding
Thanks for the recipe Liz -it sounds yummy! Love to get recipes from the U.K. - reminds me of my childhood - many years ago. Hope this is a weight watcherss recipe! lol Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan
Macaroni and Spam
A lighter note about Spam. During W.W.2 in England. food was rationed severely. Fresh meat was a once a week treat. Then the U.S. sent us Spam and similar canned meats which we used for all kinds of gourmet meals. To this day - and I am 80 years old amd healthy...
"Magic" Lawn Formula?
I believe this formula was put out by THE GARDEN REBEL. I used to live in Florida and heard him on the radio. His leaflets were available at the local garden departments. Maybe if you Google GARDEN REBEL - Florida, something might come up. Good Luck. Joan from...
Product Review: I Can't Believe It's Not Butter
I can easily believe its NOT butter. It has the same awful smell of all the fake spreads. Give me real butter any time and I am 80 years old and still going strong - so far! lol
Set Up Christmas Tree In The Garage
Its a great idea if you live in California or some other warm climate, but the thought of decorating the tree outdoors (or even in the garage) in chilly Michigan in below freezing temperatures is not appealing. I guess we will have to settle for the usual mess...
Non Carved Jack-O'-Lantern
This is a great idea and so simple. I have had to discard my carved pumpkin because it attracted so many wasps and bugs. I shall remember this for next year. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Pop-up Virus (Anti-Virus 2009)?
Thank you all so much for your suggestions. However soon after I sent out my plea for help, my 14-year-old granddaughter used my computer and within 15 minutes she had it erased (dont ask). I guess there is nothing like a teenager to solve computer problems...
Chocolate Mousse Cake
Robin - is it safe to use uncooked eggs, as in the mousse recipe? Joan from Michigan
Simple Recipe For Salmon Fillets?
A simple way to cook salmon is to place it on a piece of foil, add some lemon juice, butter and whatever seasoning you like and wrap into a package. Cook in a 350 degree oven for about l5 minutes. I cook mine in a toaster oven and its delicious. Hope you soon...
I Love Dandelions!
Hi Kristen My kids frequently brought home boquets of dandelions and I always had a jar of them on the kitchen windowsill - miss those times now they are grown and gone. Say Hi to Apopka for me. We moved from there to Michigan a couple of years ago - I miss...
Keeping Roaches Out Of Tub?
They may be coming out of the overflow drain on your bathtub. We had a problem with large ants (in Florida) and thats where they were coming from. Try filling the tub with hot water and bleach and let it run out of the overflow for a few minutes. This took...
Save Chip and Cracker Crumbs for Meatloaf
Instead of breadcrumbs I add oatmeal to my meatloaf. Its more nutritious, the meatloaf holds its shape (I bake it on a broiler pan so the fat drips through) and the texture is great.
Clown Pattern From Old Crafts n Things Magazine?
Hi Gillian: I googled clown pattern from Craftn/Things magazine and they came up with a few websites. One even mentioned a Butterick clown pattern from CraftnThings. You might try this. Hope it helps.
Unrefrigerated Jelly with Fruit?
Here in the U.S. jelly is always referred to as jello. Im sure Jackie is referring to the jello with fruit that you can find unrefrigerated in the grocery store. I am sure it has to go through a special process and I dont know how you would make it at home...
Coffee Cup For Cat Water
The first night we had our cat Graycie, I woke up to find her drinking from my water glass on my night stand. Ever since then, I keep my glass in the bathroom but always keep a glass on the night stand for Graycie. I often find her drinking from it during the...
Coffee Cup For Cat Water
The first night we had our cat Graycie, I woke up to find her drinking from my water glass on my night stand. Ever since then, I keep my glass in the bathroom but always keep a glass on the night stand for Graycie. I often find her drinking from it during the...
Cinnamon Sugar For Coffee
Hi Deborah: You can save even more if you make your own cinnamon sugar. Just mix a teaspoonful of cinnamon into one cup of sugar. You may want to add more or less cinnamon to taste. This is also good sprinkled on toast.
Making Your Own Brown Sugar
Wish I had made a note of this when I read it a few weeks ago. I discovered I was out of brown sugar right in the middle of baking - of course. I followed the recipe on the jar of molasses which was one cup of sugar to one HALF cup of Molasses - way too much...
