An Introduction to Container Gardening
To keep dirt from draining out of your potted plants, place a coffee filter in the bottom of the flower pot, add gravel, or packing peanuts for added drainage, add dirt and plants. The coffee filter allows excess water to drain out, but keeps dirt in the pot...
An Introduction to Container Gardening
BE CAUTIOUS with store bought potting soil. It has something in it that can make you very ill. I dont know what it is, but it is usually breathed in from the dust that flies around while handling it. At any rate USE A FACE MASK like Doctors use. they can be...
An Introduction to Container Gardening
I grew container tomatoes on patio, as they sprawled out, I used pieces of old pantyhose to tie and support them in place. This really works and best part is you can reuse the pantyhose strips. By Cindy Miller
An Introduction to Container Gardening
Use washed egg shells in the bottom of your plant pots. Also use them in cracks of your sidewalk, patio or driveway. It will kill slugs, ants other insects. By Sandi G
An Introduction to Container Gardening
Make sure your plants that are in containers have good drainage. Add a few chunks of charcoal to keep the standing water fresh. Keep them out of the hot afternoon sun, the pots can over heat and cook the roots. Coffee filters can be the first thing to put in...
Where Can I Buy Diaper Pins?
Sent in by email: Buy Diaper Pins at WalMart or Dollar General Stores .. and Im sure other places as well.
Cloth Diapers or Disposable Diapers?
Heres a submission we received recently: Sew your own Cloth Baby Diapers - Who me Sew? Yes, you can learn to sew your own Designer Cloth Diapers for your baby! Your Precious Baby deserves nothing less than Cloth to wear 24 hours a day for about the first 2...
Organizing Bills and Statements?
By Maria Gracia (title)1. KEEP YOUR PENDING BILLS TOGETHER, IN ONE DESIGNATED AREA.(/title) As soon as your mail arrives, or at your designated mail sorting time, sort through the mail, separating your pending bills from all of your other mail. When done sorting...
Getting Rid of Japanese Beetles?
Heres some information from University of Kentucky Entomology: Not real encouraging but they atleast have some information. Trapping Beetles In recent years commercial or homemade traps have become a popular means of trying to reduce beetle numbers. Commercially...
Autism Financial Advice?
Hi Jan, My grandson has been working with http://depts.washington.edu/uwautism/ His progress has been extraordinary. He started with them when he was 2 and it has really made a big difference (hes 4 now). They work with him on diet, too. You could call there...
Apply for Financial Aid Early
When my kids were in college, wed do that taxes as soon as possible after the first of the year and put in the FAFSA forms. The sooner you do all that the better because most schools work on first come first served financial aid. The grants and good loans go...
Fear Factor Themed Party?
My three year old son is a HUGE Fear Factor fan and its going to be the theme of his birthday party (coming up in a few months... Im a planner!). Any ideas for making seemingly-gross or pseudo-dangerous treats or games? MathieusMama
Cleaner for Coffee Pots?
If you are looking for commercial coffee pot cleaners here are some choices. I havent used any of these so cant recommend one: http://www.discountcoffee.com/PotCleaner.htm http://www.easycoffee.com/pill.html http://www.amazon.com/Coffee-Pot-Cleaner-Commercial...?tag=thriftyfun0b-20
Could This Be Strep?
Strep is nothing to fool around with and can cause secondary infections. Please go have it checked out. Susan from ThriftyFun
Moving Large Planters
(sent in by email) This is such a bad tip and terrible advice. I worry about older ladies who might do this. First off many skate boards have some type of suspension system which allows the rider greater flexibility to make tighter turns. That makes the platform...
County Apple Cobbler
Sent in by Email: This is a feedback on a recipe for County Apple Cobbler which I printed out from your website about a month ago. It was by Connie from Oden, Arkansas. Connie, you have started a Cobbler Revolution on a small island in the Pacific. I made your...
Dead Electrical Circuit?
Assuming that no drunk did any creative cable splicing in the dark, the most likely cause is a nail or screw through the cable. Somewhere between the breaker box and where you checked, the white wire got cut and, after the cut, is touching the back wire. Just...
Chocolate Cherry Pie
I wrote Robin to ask her. I think it probably is missing a can of cherry pie filling but will adjust the recipe when I hear back. Susan from ThriftyFun
Easy Slow Cooker Recipe?
We have a lot of crockpot recipes that have been posted over the years: http://www.thriftyfun.com/Recipes_Crockpot_833_848.html Susan from ThriftyFun
How much rent can I afford?
Its funny. Back in the 60s they recommended 25% of your monthly income for rent. In the 80s it was 30%, not it is probably 40-50%. Rents have gone up much faster than income in most cases. Susan from ThriftyFun
Soot Stain Suede?
Take some cornstarch or corn meal and rub it into the stain. Dont use any liquid on it or it will become a black mess. Brush it out and repeat. It may take several times. Susan from ThriftyFun
Do I Count a Gift as Income on Taxes?
Heres from the IRS website: (quote)Gift Taxes IRS Tax Tip 2006-14 If you gave any one person gifts in 2005 that valued at more than $11,000, you must report the total gifts to the Internal Revenue Service and may have to pay tax on the gifts. The person who...
Inexpensive Dog Toys?
Dogs cant tell the difference between your childrens favorite stuffed animals and their own. I had a dog staying with us who chewed up a lot of favorites so if you have children, having toys other than stuffed animals is a good idea. Susan from ThriftyFun
Moonflower Seeds?
(sent in by email) The flowers fell off & i dont see no seeds or pods on them & i wanted to plant them in a different place next year. Joyce
Making Paper Boxes?
Heres an old one with a pattern on Thriftyfun: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf986327.tip.html
Small Slide Viewer?
Sent by Email: I would like to thank Caramel, Dianne, and Kim for their postings on my request for a small hand-held view finder. I checked them all; Kims suggestion of The Vermont Country Store showed that they have one. I requested a catalog. Thank all the...
Coke Stain on Clothing?
My 4 year old spilled soda (Coke) on two of her colored dresses that are 95% cotton, 5% spandex. Ive tried Spray N Wash Stain Stick, Shout gel, Oxy Clean Spray, all to no avail. I think the one dress went through the dryer (just once), before I realized there...
Balancing Work and Family?
Hi Somer, Lots of opinions on this. Its always difficult to balance home, family and working. Yes, its nice if you have your children after you are well established and dont have to work but there are many that have no choice, if they dont work, they dont have...
Removing Air From an Air Mattress?
With ours there is a flap that keeps the air from coming out in addition to the cap. It really can slow down the escape of air. Sometimes you need to put an unsharpened pencil or something like that to keep the flap open so the air can escape. Then roll and...
Candle Wax on a Laminate Floor?
I would take a putty knife (best if it was plastic) and scrape it off. That should bring up most of it. Getting it cold with ice cubes in a plastic bag is also a good idea so that it all comes up together.
Stella Returning to Vietnam for Second Trip
Stella arrived in Danang, Vietnam safe and sound. Her flight was delayed and the connection in Taiwan was changed because of the earthquake the day before off the coast. Susan from ThriftyFun
Tips For Cleaning Brass?
Keep decorative items dusted and clean. Wash in sudsy, lukewarm water, rinse and dry. Never use hot water on lacquered items as it loosens the lacquer; do not polish them or soak them in water. Source: http://www.msue.msu.edu/msue/imp/mod02/01500065.html
Tips For Cleaning Brass?
To clean brass, use equal amounts of Coca-Cola and ammonia (Pepsi wont work). Mix contents in a glass bowl, dip a soft cloth into solution and wipe the brass article to remove tarnish. Rinse and wipe dry. By Linda
What Breed is My Dog? (Schipperke?)
(Sent by email) He looks like a Japanese Spitz. I used to have 8 of them. Mag
Is 12 Old Enough to Go Places Alone?
It is really an individual thing depending on where you live and how responsible your daughter is. When I was young, I walked to school by myself from a very early age (6). Its always better though at any age when she can go with another person. Susan from...
What Breed is My Dog? (Schipperke?)
He does look like he could be part Pomeranian but they are usually very small. Its hard to tell in the picture how big he is. Hes definitely a nice looking little guy. Eskimo Spitz are a small to small medium sized dog and always white like he is. He does have...
Update: Thriftyfun Knocked Out By Storms
The tree cutters came today. I counted the rings of the fallen tree. It was 76 years old! Susan from ThriftyFun
Use Your Answering Machine for New Baby Info
I rarely get calls from anyone but my friends and family because I have an unlisted number. We thought this would be a good idea, at least for the first couple of days. Lots of phone calls can be pretty draining in the first couple of days after you get home...
Use Your Answering Machine for New Baby Info
(sent by email) What if the person calling is a calling the wrong number and they write down all the info of the baby? That is opening the baby and parents of the child to identity theft and should not be done. By Zig
Keeping Pets Away From The Christmas Tree?
I usually put the unbreakable and safe ornaments for kids and pets on the bottom and put the breakable or more hazardous ones on the top. Susan from ThriftyFun
Struggling Peace Plant?
Request: I have a very large Peace Plant that I received from my sisters funeral. It seems like I have to water it every other day or two days. The plant is very limp until I water it and then sometimes it takes a good day or so to bounce back. Am I doing something...
Making Linoleum Block Prints
(Answer: sent in by email) Hello, I have never used or seen a wooden frame to secure the block in and do not know its advantages but you do not need it to create a linoleum block like mine. With the blocks I have used I did not need to soften it. One thing...
Making Linoleum Block Prints
(sent in by email) I like your clear and easy instructions for linoleum block printing. I want to get started in it but dont know exactly what to buy. One website said you need to make a wooden frame to hold your linoleum block, but I see you dont use one. Also...
What is the value of a 1928 $5 bill?
Heres a Wikipedia entry about $5 bills. I agree to go to a coin shop. The condition of the bill may matter but I imagine it is worth much more than $5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_five-dollar_bill
Creative Cookie Containers?
Heres one of Stellas from last year: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf26423721.tip.html
B.C. (Baby Cat) ThriftyFun's Office Cat
B.C. may not work much but she sure can purr! Susan from ThriftyFun
Permanent Marker on a Guitar?
Id be very careful using anything to remove the signature because you might ruin the finish on the guitar. If the autograph is anyone known, you might be ruining a collectible. It might be best to call a guitar maker or luthier to find out what would be best...
Keep Track of Rebates (Printable)
Keep a list of all rebates you mail with date, whom sent, address, product and manufacturers 800#, and amount due. Check it off when received, however, if not received, contact the manufacturer on their 800# or send a post card inquiry. Manufacturers always...
Keep Track of Rebates (Printable)
If you buy something that includes a rebate, get everything ready immediately when you bring it home. Otherwise, its too easy to lose a receipt or forget to mail it on time. By cynthia conley
Deep Frying a Turkey Tips?
I saw a news story last year about a house fire started by a deep fat fryer outside. Make sure it is away from your house, not under the eaves or near a wall. It was amazing how quickly the grease fire got out of control. (quote)For added safety, have a fire...
What kind of tree is this? (Bald Cypress?)
Could it be a deodora cedar? If you put that in google, then click on images at the top there are lots of photos of them. There is one at this link: http://www.bigtreesupply.com/images/deodora_cedar.jpg and another here: http://www.ups.edu/x8040.xml
Preparing Juice Pouches for Crafts?
Xacto knives are usually in the hardware department or you can find one in your local Ace or TrueValue hardware store. A sharp box cutting knife would also work.
Preparing Juice Pouches for Crafts?
Stella says she cut the backs off of hers: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf984011.tip.html
Assistance For The Elderly on Exotic Trips?
Heres a good link with travel destinations for the disabled. http://www.makoa.org/travel.htm#places I agree that Machu Picchu would be very difficult with a walker, not to mention the high altitude. Hopefully the link will give you some ideas. Susan from ThriftyFun
Adapting Knit and Crochet Patterns?
Heres a link that explains how to do it. http://www.ehow.com/how_18632_convert-knitting-pattern.html Susan from ThriftyFun
When Can You Spay a Kitten?
Many animal shelters are spaying and neutering at 6-8 weeks of age. There has been a lot of research done on this and it has become fairly routine to spay and neuter before the pet leaves the shelter. Check with your vet, I have one cat that was spayed before...
Puppy Names and What They Mean?
Hi Nicolene, Here you go: From: http://www.resourcesforlife.com/library/names/masculine.htm#M Mishka - Russian meaning little bear Susan from ThriftyFun
Can you put wool blankets in the dryer?
If you have an air fluff setting (no heat) you could toss them in the dryer but any heat will shrink them.
Finding a Collie in Southeastern Iowa?
Hi Robin, So sorry to hear about your lovely collie. I believe we have a picture of her somewhere on ThriftyFun. A great resource for anykind of dog is PetFinder. Heres a link. https://www.petfinder.com Another option there is to place an ad in their classifieds...
Helping A Needy Family This Christmas
(format_html) RE: Helping A Needy Family This Christmas Debra, you have some great ideas! And, you are right, it is an incredible feeling to help someone else out. We have mitten trees in our town that you can donate hats, scarfs, and mittens to the area children...
Flashlights that Don't Require Batteries
At WalMart in the camping section (at ours on an aisle with other small items hanging) they have a little flashlight that charges up by cranking a little generator when you squeeze it. They are about $5 and for the money it is a great emergency flashlight. They...
Easier Thank You Notes
Ive been thinking about this and the reactions to the tip. I remembered that this was done at a shower I attended. By the time I got the thank you note, I thought it was odd that the envelope was in my own handwriting but on opening it, I remembered. Maybe...
"Dreaming of a Bright Christmas" Float Ideas?
I think it would be fun to have people dressed in straw and other hats, dressed in overalls and flannel shirts playing Jug Band instruments. http://www.jugstore.com/ Or you could just play jug band or hillbilly type music. Make sure there is some hay on the...
My 5 Month Old Fights Going To Sleep?
Does she have any teeth yet? Whether she does or not, at 5 months, shes probably teething. They usually get fussy for a while before the tooth or teeth cut through. This can happen off an on for quite a while. They can also run a mild fever. Susan from ThriftyFun
Life of Christ Bracelet?
This might be what you are looking for: http://www.beadedword.com/life_of_christ.html It gives the meaning of each bead and good pictures. Susan from ThriftyFun
Canned Milk As Glue
I wrote to Laurie to ask: (b) It is evaporated milk. Ive never used sweetened condensed milk, but it might work also.(/b) Susan from ThriftyFun
Creepy Dry Ice Flask
How much really depends on the size of your container. This one was about a half gallon size so the bowl part was filled about 3/4 full, added enough food coloring so it changed color, a few drops. A small piece of dry ice will work until it melts, then add...
Gift Basket Ideas?
Heres an article I wrote about it: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf852933.tip.html Also if you search in the box on top for Gift Basket, you will find lots of ideas. Susan from ThriftyFun
My Dog Bites?
There is so much not known here. Is the dog a large one, a small one? Was the person bitten a child, an adult? Has the dog shown aggressive behavior before this time? What were the circumstances? Did the bite break the skin? I agree that if you get rid of the...
Is Pumpkin Pie Okay For Dogs?
It probably wouldnt hurt. The sugar in it isnt good for your pup but if you are asking if it is poisonous, I doubt it. As a good treat, probably not.
How do you get rid of blackberry vines naturally?
I just cut, cut, cut. Cut down all the vines into pieces small enough to send put in the garbage can or the yard waste. They will grow out of your compost so that really doesnt work. Everytime you see some growing back, cut them down. They will grow back up...
Theme Ideas for My Room?
For someone who loves music you could do a music theme. Paint large music notes on the walls, or have a sheet music border around the wall near the celing or both. Then leave room for posters of your favorite music groups. To hang your picture that you have...
Choosing Good Potatoes?
From: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002875.htm The toxin is found throughout the plant but especially in green potatoes and in the new sprouts. Never eat potatoes that are spoiled or green below the skin. Always throw away the sprouts. Potatoes...
Cooking from Scratch for a Large Family
Cook from scratch. It is really not that hard or inconvenient. Once you do it for a while, it will seem like youve done it forever. The savings are great and this way you know what you and your loved ones are eating. Mandy (Originally published on 1-31-2001...
Cooking from Scratch for a Large Family
Years ago I used to make my bread by hand until I started having rib problems from kneading the bread & so I ended up purchasing a bread machine. It is so inexpensive to make your own bread plus it tastes so much better than store bought bread. If you are watching...
Cooking from Scratch for a Large Family
Stock up on a lot of rice and vegetables. A lot of healthy dinners can be made from this combination. By james sprague
Making Better Pancakes
Another tip for any pancakes is wait until the pan is hot enough so that water skips when you wet your fingers and shake them over the pan. Then wait until the bubbles break on the top of the batter before turning them.
What does TDW mean on my paycheck stub?
It looks like it may mean Transaction Detail Warrant which basically means it is letting your know it is a memo or detail. If it is money being taken out, it must be something that youve agreed to be taken out. Best to ask your employer or payroll office.
Rotten Egg Smell Coming From Sink?
(sent in by email) This odor is caused by chemicals or bacteria in the water supply that are attacking the magnesium rod in the hot water heater It is usually associated with well water but is also found in municipal water. I have had the problem in both well...
Cooking Hyacinth Beans?
Hi Lynda, Heres a link: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/poison/Dolicla.htm that says they are poisonous. Im not sure if these are the same ones you have. Connie also says that dry seeds should be cooked with 2 changes of water before eating. Heres...
Dogs with Vision Problems
Hi, I had the same problem with my Maltese. She lived to be 18. The last few years of her life she lost her sight due to cataracts, then her hearing loss made it so that she could only hear a loud clap of the hands. They do get along very well but I made a...
A Young Monk Arrives At The Monastery-Joke
Funny how this joke has been here since 2006 and the first corrections were posted in 2008. Ah well.
White Lasagna Primavera
Sorry we missed that. Id say 1 to 2 cups ricotta and have tried to contact her to get the exact amount. Ill post it when we have it. Susan
Uses for Old Guitar Strings?
We could start a letter writing campaign asking them to provide for or recommend how to recycle our strings. Here is the contact form for Gibson http://www.gibson.com/pure/exchange/contact.html and Martins contact page. http://www.martinguitar.com/contact/index...
"Just For Men" Not Working For Me?
Loving Care by Clairol works well. It washes out in 6-8 shampoos so if you dont like the color, its not hard to get rid of. Because you probably dont have long hair, one bottle can last for several applications. Pick a color a little lighter than your natural...
Non-Prescription Sleeping Aids?
I have great results with melatonin. It takes about 1/2 hour but works well with no side effects. It is an amino acid (protein) so is safe in small quantities. Benedryl puts me right to sleep to the point that I only take it if Im having an allergic reaction...
Shopping "Clicker"?
They have a Handy Adder which is I think what you are looking for at: http://www.the5and10.com Put Adder in the search box and it will come up. Susan from ThriftyFun
Saving Money on SOS Pads
Whenever I purchase a box of S.O.S Pads, I immediately take a pair of scissors and cut each pad into halves. After years of having to throw away rusted, unused and smelly pads, I finally decided that this would be much more economical. And now a box of S.O...
Uses For Empty Luggage
Use empty luggage to store blankets, seasonal clothes, or gift items purchased in advance during sales. By Suanne Giddings
Repairing Holes in Sheetrock?
It really depends on the size of the holes. If they are little nail holes, they can be patched with white toothpaste. If they are larger they can be patched with just spackle or patching plaster (thumbsized). If they are bigger than that there is some grid...
Papaya the Puppy
Hi Kinalee, Chihuahuas are the tiniest of dogs, usually 2 to 5 pounds total. They are smaller than most cats. If he will get that big, he is definitely not a chihuahua. He sure is cute! Susan from ThriftyFun
Save Money on Dish Soap
I keep dishwashing liquid, diluted 1:1 with water in a handsoap pump dispenser beside my kitchen sink. Your detergent goes twice as far, and you can use it to put a drop or two (use a light touch) on your sponge, or to add a measured amount to your sink when...
Save Money on Dish Soap
Mix 1/3 dawn with 2/3 water and it works just as well and goes a lot farther. By Monika Bigelow
Save Money on Dish Soap
Sams Club carries the Restaurant Grade ProForce dish detergent in the gallon size for $3.86 (as of 4/21/05). Much cheaper than the grocery store for smaller bottles. By Syd
Save Money on Dish Soap
It is not so much our big expenditures that get us into trouble for thrifty people tend to shy away from large purchases. Instead it is the little foxes that spoil the vine. One such case for me is too much waste in dish soap. When it seemed like I was always...
Save Money on Dish Soap
Use any gentle foaming hand pump and add water to the fill line add dish detergent and just squirt about 5 times or so and your dish detergent will last forever, thus saving you lots of money. By Karen P in TN
Home Infested With Fleas?
Borax! Sprinkle borax on all furniture, sweep into the carpets, put in all corners. Vacuum it up after an hour or two but some will stay behind to keep killing them at the base of the carpets. It continues to kill the eggs and is much safer than insecticides...
Halloween Tricks and Treats
It seems to me that the paper roll isnt touched until it is empty because it is covered with paper. It seems like contact with germs would be minimal, especially if you washed your hands before taking off the roll. Id think that spraying lightly with lysol...
Purebred Maltese Puppies?
It looks like it is normal for purebred Maltese to have some yellow or tan. It sometimes goes away as they lose their puppy hair. http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf19624803.tip.html http://www.foxstonemaltese.com/maltese_faqs.htm#22.
Damp Smell in Basement?
One thing that worked for me was sprinkling borax all over the floor, letting it sit for a few minutes, then sweeping it up. It absorbs the moisture and also helps sweeten it. It makes quite a difference. Also, get as much air moving through the space as possible...
Beer Stain on Suede?
Wipe it off the best you can with clear water on a damp sponge. You dont want to get it too wet, just enough to help lift the stain. Then, after it has dried, brush corn meal into the suede, let it sit for a few minutes, then brush out.
Can I Change a 15 Amp Breaker to a 20?
Dear William The reason the Code does not allow that, is because 20 Amps traveling through 15 Amp wires will overheat them and cause a fire in the wall. You can often get away with adding additional outlets without messing with the breaker, as long as the total...
Watch Out For Aspartame
Ive always hated these artificial sweeteners, the minute I take the first sip and they taste like poison to me. The experts change their minds about everything throughout the years (possibly depending on who is paying them.) I think if we trust our bodies to...
Rust Stains on Marble?
Angie, Marble is very delicate. Dont use any bleach, vinegar or citrus products on it. The magic eraser might be the best because it is slightly abrasive without any chemicals that might harm it. Susan from ThriftyFun
Sudsy Ammonia For Pet Odors
I wondered about this myself (pouring sudsy ammonia) but it might be that the ammonia smell was so overpowering that the cat decided to avoid that location. Susan from ThriftyFun
Gift Ideas for Men?
Pocket knives are quite often a good gift or any kind of tools. I agree with the food gifts, gadgets and puzzles. Gift certificates to the movies, for CDs or DVDs. As for making gifts, Ive made tool rolls out of canvas and little leather pouches which usually...
Why do dogs like to roll in dung and dead animals?
According to:http://www.barkbytes.com/b4ubuy/q&a1.htm (quote) Answer: I am afraid that this is an old instinct of the wolf that is still in your pet. When wild dogs or wolves hunt they will roll in the dung of their prey. They are in fact trying to get the...
Caution: 4 Year Old Boys and Eggs
This reminds me of the time my 3 oldest kids glazed the kitchen floor with raspberry jam, they were having a great time skating on it. I was vacuuming and they were making their own peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, the oldest had just turned 6. Someone spilled...
Acrylic Paint Stains on a Polyester Ball Gown?
This is a tough one. You could try goof off or another solvent on a Q-tip (check the ingredients on the bottle) and see if it takes out the paint. Because it is a very expensive gown, it might be best to take it to the best dry cleaner in town and ask them...
ThriftyFun Polls Not Working?
Were thinking because the results come up in a pop up that any that have pop ups blocked may not be getting the results. Were working on a new solution so it no longer pops up with the answer. Thanks, Susan from ThriftyFun
Rust Stains From My Washing Machine?
(sent in by email) for Rust in washing machine http://www.omnifilters.com/u25_filter.htm Sherry
Smoke Smell on a Wood Bassinet?
You dont say if it is smoke from a wood stove, house fire or cigarette smoke but this cleaner works well. General Cleaner 1 tsp borax 1/2 tsp washing soda 2 Tbsp lemon juice 1 cup HOT water approx 3 cups water Combine borax, washing soda and lemon juice in...
Locust Making Holes in Window Screens?
Do you have fiberglass screens or metal mesh? I wouldnt think they could chew through the metal. I agree that soap might be a good remedy because they probably wouldnt like the taste. Susan from ThriftyFun
Deleting Auto-Fill Information On My Computer?
It really depends on the type of computer, PC or Mac, and what browser you are using. Quite often the Auto Fill features are in the browser and you can find it in the Settings or Preferences. If it is email addresses, it might be in your email program address...
Sugar (Dachshund Mix)
She looks like she might be part beagle. That might bring the howling. Shes a cutie. Susan
Cooking a Roast?
A roast with the bone in will cook faster than a boneless roast because the bone carries the heat to the inside of the roast quicker. By Robin
Loofas for Scrubbers
Ive never tried growing them myself but heres a great link with lots of information about growing, harvesting and cutting loofas. http://www.luffa.info/ Susan from ThriftyFun
Orange-Glazed Coffeecake
It should be 1/2 tsp. salt, Ive changed the recipe. Thanks for catching that. Susan
Green Solutions for Oxalis
Heres a picture. What we have here is kind or reddish but the same cloverleaf type shape.
Buying Prescriptions From Canada?
i heard on the news the other day (8-1-2006) that U.S. customs is stopping shipments of Canadian prescriptions and seizing them. They are also stopping people coming across the border with their prescriptions. Although Canadian prescriptions are a lot less...
Window End Tables?
Hi, Here is the one that was posted: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf71113782.tip.html Susan from ThriftyFun
Preventing Tomato Stains in Plastic Containers
Keep plastic containers that hold tomato sauce clean by spraying the container with Pam before placing the tomato sauce inside. Clean up will be very easy. By Laura
Electric Skillet Reviews?
I have a Corning Ware electric skillet. The heating element goes under the flat casserole like skillet. It has a glass lid. It is easy to clean, the skillet part can go in the dishwasher. Ive had it for 10 years or so and works well. One plus is the skillet...
Butterfly Birthday Party?
Here are a couple of things here at ThriftyFun: Butterfly decorations: (these were for Valentines Day but could be adapted for a party) http://216.168.63.106/tf61878107.tip.html Butterfly Birthday Cake: http://216.168.63.106/tf192624.tip.html Caterpillar Sandwiches...
Dealing With Debt After Divorce?
Call the credit card company and ask them to take your name off the card, ask what they need to do that. Quite often with the information from the divorce decree plus possibly a notorized statement from your husband asking for you to be removed and showing...
Declutter Your Closet
To keep your closet clear of clothing that you no longer wear, once every 3-6 months pull out every article that you havent worn and donate it to goodwill. By paula
Using Baking Soda to Unclog a Bathtub Drain?
Make sure you always follow the baking soda with vinegar. I keep putting in vinegar as long as it fizzles. it usually takes less baking soda than vinegar. Then after it sits for a while, run hot water through the drain.
Chocolate Shoo-fly Pie
(Sent by Email) Sorry about the confusion. A 16 oz can of syrup IS more than 1 1/2 cups but for some reason the density of it (I use Hersheys Dark) gives me about the same volume of filling but I should have clarified that. The one thing that I didnt say about...
Chocolate Shoo-fly Pie
(Sent in by Email) I have a question regarding the shoo-fly pie. The ingredient list calls for 1 1/2 c. (16 oz. can) of Hersheys syrup. 1 1/2 c. is equal to 12 oz. Which is right, 12 oz or 16 oz? Thanks. Evelyn from Greeley, CO
Electric Power Loss?
Dear Bill Yes, Edison would be quite happy with a mystery KW per hour added to every invoice. I would check the bedroom closets and see if a former tenant installed a false back with a grow-light behind it or a cable to something like that in the attic. A steady...
Freezing Meat
When buying meats, especially with summer barbequeing season approaching, utilize sales. Buy extra and use freezer paper and freezer tape to save extras. 1/4 the cost of expensive freezer papers and no freezer burn! c.j.cox
Storing Celery
When you bring home celery from the store remove the plastic bag and wrap tightly in foil. The celery will last for a month or more this way. No more wasting celery when it loses its crispness. By Pat Thompson
Advice for a Mother-In-Law?
(Sent in by email) Thanks for the feedback. I guess I do need to look at this from her point of view. There is no way for her to put in an appearance at the anniversary party since the two event are in different states. I have decided to call my son and let...
Frugal Camping Tips
Heres a longer version of this... 1. Channel lock pliers make good pot holders. 2. Make an oven by lining a moving box with aluminum foil and pushing coat hangers through both sides about half way up the box to form your grill. Put coals in a pan and put the...
How long does it take for a request to be posted?
Normally questions are posted within 24 hours. Lately we have been getting so many requests that it has been taking longer. We hope to get caught up on requests over the weekend.
Picnic Tips?
By Cyndi Roberts The Fourth of July is just around the corner and for a lot of us that means heading out to the lake or to the park for a picnic with friends or family. Unfortunately, if were not careful when we plan, transport and serve that picnic, our outing...
Picnic Tips?
I always take a roll of paper towels in the picnic basket. They can be used as napkins, place mats, spill clean-ups, and food covers. Multiple uses from 1 product. By Linda
Dealing With Food Scraps While Cooking
If possible, rather than trashing the veggies peelings and cuttings you can put them in your compost pile and keep the good stuff out of the landfill. Or get a worm bin and feed the worms with them.
Losing Power When I Put a Light Bulb in a Socket?
Dear Kimeo A voltage reading on a digital instrument does not necessarily mean that there is real power there. If you still read the same voltage when a load is connected, THEN you have proper connections. Most likely you have either wires mixed up or a broken...
Bread Machine Tips
Heres an easy way to remove the paddle from your bread machine without a lot of mess. Next time you go out for Chinese food ask for chopsticks. They are free so take them home and when your bread is ready to be removed from the bread maker, turn the loaf upside...
Bread Machine Tips
When I am assembling often used recipes for my breadmaker I measure all the dry ingredients once into the breadmaking pan and once into a zip-lock baggie. I separate the yeast into a tiny zip lock bag I bought from the craft section of the dollar store. I then...
Bread Machine Tips
I dont care for bread baked in my breadmaker. As we enjoy many kinds of Focaccia, Bread Sticks, Dinner Buns etc. I use the Dough Only setting. With little or no mess, I end up with a well mixed, perfectly kneaded & once risen dough to do with as I like. I finish...
Bread Machine Tips
When your bread is ready to remove from the machine tip it upside down and use a Chinese chopstick to remove the paddle. It comes out so easy. Dont have chopsticks? Next time you or any one you know goes out to eat at a Chinese restaurant request chopsticks...
Use a Tally Counter When Grocery Shopping
I tried the contact form at 5and10.com and got an error. im not sure if this is a working website or not. Another time I got network solutions that the domain name is for sale. Until we find out if these guys are in business or not, I wouldnt recommend ordering...
Poll: Would you subscribe to a weekly Crafts newsletter if ThriftyFun published one?
Everything at ThriftyFun is free! Hopefully it will always be. Susan from ThriftyFun
Recipes for Roti and Busip Shirt?
I think this is the one: http://recipes.caribseek.com/Trinidad_and_Tobago/buss-up-shut-and-roti-bread.shtml There are also some good recipes on this site: http://recipes.caribseek.com/Trinidad_and_Tobago/ http://recipes.caribseek.com/caribbean-recipes.shtml...
Recipes for Roti and Busip Shirt?
Im unable to find anything about Busip Shirt but here are some recipes for Roti: http://www.indianfoodsco.com/Recipes/breads.htm http://www.fatfree.com/recipes/breads-variety/roti http://www.bawarchi.com/cookbook/south2.html
Daughter-In-Law Won't Accept Used Items?
Its a difficult situation but you need to honor her wishes in this. Usually after new mothers realize that all of the clothing looks used after a wearing or two and the costs of keeping your constantly growing baby in clothes, they change their minds. One thing...
Freezing Bread
When freezing a loaf of bread, wrap newspaper around the plastic bag and secure with masking tape. This will keep the bread from drying out in the freezer. By Mary B.
Uses for Sippy Cups?
When my children graduated from small sippie trainer cups to big kid cups, I remained faithful to my pack rat tendencies. I now keep the trainer cups in the bathroom cabinet to rinse after my family and I brush our teeth instead of paper cups. After each use...
Growing Flowers for My Wedding
I agree with Grandma Margie, make sure that the flowers you want will be in bloom during the time of your wedding. Dahlias are very pretty and bloom for a long time. Herbs like lavender, mint, marjoram, and even Italian parsley in bloom all are pretty and go...
My Cat Has a "Wart" or "Mole"?
It could be an abcess if it popped up overnight. If so, if it keeps getting bigger, you might want to take him to the vet to have it lanced.
Washing a Vinyl Handbag?
Anjeena, if the manufacturer said you could hand wash it and it didnt work, write to them and ask if they will replace it. With a bag that expensive, the manufacturer or the store where you bought it, just might. Susan from ThriftyFun
Uses for Citrus Rinds
Save rinds from lemon and oranges in a baggie in fridge, use grated in recipes or simmer with spices as home freshener. By Patricia Bradley
Cloudy Water in An Above Ground Pool?
(sent in by email) Having a cloudy water in pool since opening in mid-May. Had algae at first and put 2 bags (1 pound each) shock which killed algae and turned water very milky. Then added clarifier according to directions on bottle for size of pool. Did nothing...
Traveling With a Newborn?
Hi Jeggie, There is less than 3 weeks between your due date and when you want to travel. Im sure you want everyone to be able to see your new baby but that is a very long trip to try to make after a delivery. You may not feel up to it and although you can bottle...
Taco Spaghetti (Freezer Meal)
To cook unfrozen, I would set the timer 40 minutes and check on its progress.
Petrified Forest (Near Flagstaff, AZ)
Youre right Dana, Ive been there, too and didnt notice that. It is between Gallup, New Mexico and Flagstaff, Arizona. Thanks, Susan from ThriftyFun
