November 18, 2009

Daily Thrifty Tips - November 18, 2009


Vol. 8, Num. 226, November 18, 2009 (Read It Online)

We have two sets of contest winners to announce! Here are the winners of the Homemade Halloween Costume contest:

Halloween: Little Indian Maiden
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf80340176.tip.html

Halloween: Farmer Costume (Wheelchair)
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42869964.tip.html

Halloween: Starbucks Coffee Costume
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf28246999.tip.html

You can view the full results here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/halloween2009.ldml

Here are the winners for the contest that ran from October 31, 2009 to November 6, 2009.

Pet Contest Winner

Tilly and Sophie (Calico Cats)
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf84790149.tip.html

Photo Contest Winner

Painting Laminate Countertops
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf999197.tip.html

Recipe Contest Winner

Traditional Greek Salad
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf25640993.tip.html

Tip Contest Winners

Buckle Your Purse in Your Seat Belt
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf62390757.tip.html

How to Make Draft Stoppers
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf97556243.tip.html

Thank you to everyone that took time to share something. You can view the full results of this contest here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/contest.ldml?contest=15666

Be sure to look over tips and photos in this newsletter and give a "thumbs up" to submissions that you like. Your ratings are used to pick contest winners.

Thanks for reading,

The ThriftyFun Team

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Today's newsletter contains:

Today's Photos:

Today's Tips:

Joke of the Day

New Requests:

More Reading:

Today's Sponsor:

Crafting for Fun and Money!

If you are an avid crafter, capable writer and own a digital camera, you are eligible to participate. Submit your craft projects to ThriftyFun and we will pay $15 for any crafts that we publish.

More Information:
Click Here: http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_craft.ldml

Today's Photos:

Craft: Decorative Thanksgiving Signs

Cute signs made from wood and paints.

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Supplies:

  • plywood
  • skill saw
  • sandpaper
  • stencils or coloring book pages
  • copy paper
  • eye screws
  • wire
  • acrylic paints
  • sealer
  • spray paint any color
  • pliers
  • beads

Instructions:

First decide what size sign you want then cut to size. Then sand wood so paint will adhere better and spray paint the color you want. Let dry.

Put your design on. You can free hand, stencil or copy from book with copy paper, then paint. Let dry.

Put beads on the wire, color of your choice. Put wire in eye screws as in picture then secure by taking pliers and twisting, then spray with sealer.

By Sandy from Bluff City, TN

Contest Contender!

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Craft: Decorative Thanksgiving Signs

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Using Recycled Containers

I have discovered a wonderful container that will hold so many things. I chose bagels for the photo, but you can also do the following:

  • Keep homemade burgers in separated by waxed paper.

  • Make a bagel sandwich and take to work with nothing spilled on, slid out, or crushed.

  • Keep seasonal coasters in to store.

  • Keep those big flat crackers that are so good for us without them breaking.

  • Make and keep your own face cream, bath salts, soaps, or beauty supplies.

  • Keep all your scrunchies clean and safe, store the bracelets and necklaces you love for travel.

  • Create a sewing kit, first aid kit, mini office kit, parking or vending change, pet treats, kid treats, and "you" treats, and keep in the car.

  • Mark it with something like "plant food" and put your valuables in it.

  • If your medicine bottles are short enough, keep them safe and clean inside when you travel.

  • Keep granulated food like sugar, flour, bread crumbs and so much more from going stale while being able to stack them in your cupboards.

  • Sewing thread spools fit good in these, and can sometimes be stacked two layers high, depending on the newer or older style.

  • Keep buttons and small craft supplies seperate and easy to get to when you need them.

  • Mix up baby food ahead or take formula in something you "know" won't leak.

Now you all need to come up with so much more. Tag, you're It!

Note: I do not know what came in this, but my guess is something medical. You can clean anything with bleach, or you can buy them wholesale at google.com and put in plastic jars with lids.

Source: Saw it, Thought about it, Loved it, Shared it!

By Sandi from Yorktown, VA

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Using Recycled Containers

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Sophie (Boston Terrier)

Sophie is a seven year old Boston Terrier. I got Sophie from a breeder who had six week old pups for sale. They were born on a farm and were all romping about when we noticed one older pup playing with them. It was our Sophie, leftover from the previous litter because no one wanted the dog with one blue eye! How pitiful! We had to make her our pup!

She likes to lay in the sun, go for short walks, gut stuffed animals and cuddle-pup with her Dad in the recliner on cold Wisconsin nights. In this photo she's showing off her new crocheted collar I made her.

She has bad skin allergies and used to be on cortisone, so she is a little overweight because of that. Now, we control it with benadryl as needed as well as a fish and sweet potato based food, so much better than liver damaging drugs!

By kendy from Milwaukee, WI

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Sophie (Boston Terrier)

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P.K (Parking Lot Kitty)

P.K (Parking lot Kitty) is a 5 year old cat of mixed origins. ( I am unsure what kind of cat he is.) P.K was left by his owners in the parking lot in the Marina and he loved everyone that paid attention to him. I loved him back.

He doesn't really like to do much but lay in the sun on my deck. He does like to go around and visit everyone. He also loves to get up on me when I'm resting and he put his front legs around my neck like he wants to hug me.

By Charlotte from Ridgefield, Washington

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P.K (Parking Lot Kitty)

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Baby (Yorkie Mix)

Baby is 9 years old and a Yorkie mix. We adopted Baby 9 years ago from my Father-in-Law. He was so tiny that we could hardly find a bowl little enough for him to get his little head over in to drink. We finally settled on a tiny glass ashtray.

He plays with his "pup-pups" as we call his toys. He also likes to aggravate his "brother" a 60 lb. Ridgeback that we adopted from the shelter. He isn't afraid of Scooby and holds his own with him.

We had another dog that died two years ago. A wonderful Schnoodle, Boogie, that was the sweetest dog.He was Baby's companion and caretaker from the time we brought Baby home. When our Boogie died, not only did we grieve, Baby did too. He stopped eating and we began to feed him right from our hands to get him to eat. He still won't eat on his own. I can say he is spoiled (sleeps with us) but I don't care. He gives our life joy and love.

By Sandra from Wilson, AR

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Baby (Yorkie Mix)

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Contests:

These contests are weekly. We pick 2 tip winners and 1 photo winner at the end of each week. Each winner will win $25!

Today's Tips:

Get A Free Burger At Carl's Jr. With Your Gift Card

First I'll admit to stopping by fast food, not that you aren't going to know in a minute anyway! When at Carl's Jr. (I hope you have one in your area) I noticed if you purchase a $20.00 gift card, you receive a coupon for a $6.00 burger at no charge.

I thought this was cost effective AND thrifty!

By Tedebear from San Jose CA

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Reuse Eye Drop Bottle For Travel Hand Sanitizer

With the Swine Flu upon us, don't throw away the small eye drop bottles, recycle them by snapping off the top, rinse bottle well and refill with hand sanitizer then replace the top, the bottle is small enough that it can be carried in your pocket or purse. I would remove the label and replace with red electrical tape or something to mark it "not for eyes". All of my family members carry one.

By juarezp9152 from Odem, TX

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Confetti Targets For Potty Training

For Moms with little boys. I read a tip by someone regarding potty training their little one and it reminded me of of a time long ago when I was trying to graduate my young son from the potty to a stand-up position. He loved being a "big boy" like Daddy but his aim wasn't good and I was washing down the toilet and wall several times a day.

I figured that if he concentrated on his aim that all would be well and I was right. I bought a package of colored paper confetti (the kind they throw at weddings) and placed it in a plastic bowl on the toilet tank. Every time my son needed to do his stand-up business, I dropped a pinchful of the colored confetti into the toilet bowl and encouraged him to "sink the battle ships". It worked and within a week, most of the extra cleaning was eliminated.

Here's the cute part. My son remembers this time in his life and bought paper confetti "battle ships" for his own son.

By Wilhelmina from Amherstburg, ON

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Use Foaming Tub And Tile Cleaner On Your Walls

I have used several cleaners to clean my walls in the office, which still had wallpaper paste drips staining the painted surface below the paper border. It's easy to spot the drips when the light hits the walls surface. Regular cleaners that run down the surface make a mess. And since the cleaner hasn't had time to do its job, I've got to use a lot more elbow grease to get it clean.

The secret I have discovered for upright surfaces. Cleaning is easier with a foaming tub and tile cleaner like Dow Foaming Bubbles. It adheres to the surface giving the cleaner time to break down the grease or dirt. I also use it to clean under the hood of the stove, refrigerator walls, oven door, ice chest, etc. try it and you'll do a lot less scrubbing.

Source: I discoved one day when using Scrubbing Bubbles to clean in other areas of the house

By Bobbie G from Rockwall, TX

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Inexpensive Mouse Wrist Support

I needed support for my wrist while resting my hand on the desk when I was using the computer mouse. It was getting very uncomfortable while I was reading all the great ideas on Thrifty Fun! I did not want to give that up!

Instead of buying something, I use a head band wrapped around my wrist and it works great and is very comfortable. It can be washed but I would suggest, hanging it to dry.

I bought it at Dollar Tree for, of course, $1.00. It is sold as a head band for using while washing your face, applying make-up, etc. The band is a very thick cotton material and is gathered.

My list to my next trip to Dollar Tree will include another headband.

By mkymlp from NE PA

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Lower Your Water Heater Temperature

Is there really any point in having your hot water setting so high that you have to cool it down before you can use it?

My tip is turn your hot water temperature down to 104 degrees F. (40 C.) It will save you money, and you have the peace of mind that no one is going to scald themselves.

By Nightjar from Belfast, UK

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Keeping Recipes at Eye Level and Clean

Here's a quick, simple way to read your recipe cards without getting them dirty. Tape them on a kitchen cabinet door at eye level with scotch tape, a sticker, or an old address label. They are easier to read, and you can take the tape off when you're done.

By Laurie from Portland, OR

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Toothpaste for Bathroom Cleaner

Need to clean your bathroom and out of cleaner? Toothpaste makes a great substitute for low-abrasion cream cleanser and leaves your bathroom minty-fresh. Just be careful; the fumes will make your eyes water, and clear your sinuses like nothing else!

By Angela L. from Sault Ste Marie, ON

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

Q. The truth of the matter is that you are not an unbiased, objective witness, isn't it. You too were shot in the fracas?

A. No, sir. I was shot midway between the fracas and the navel.

Read More Jokes Here: http://webby.com/humor

New Requests:

How Well Do Garment Steamers Work?

Does anyone know from experience how well a garment steamer works? I was thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from others who have had experience using garment steamers.

By Nelwyn from Bunkie, LA

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Finding Combinations for Old Locks

Any ideas how I can get the combination for various combination locks. I have a ton of these things around the house that my son has used on his school lockers for years. They are shut and we have no combinations. Any ideas?

By Candace from Scottsdale, AZ

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Buying an Old-fashioned Dust Mop

I know the Swiffer has taken over the market, but I need to know where to purchase the "old fashioned dust mops"? None of the stores I checked carry them any more.

Please advise.

Thank you.

By Rosalie from San Diego, CA

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Removing Rust Stains From Fabric

We have rust stains on the inside of the canvas on our tent trailer. Is there a way to remove them? Thank you.

By Vickie from Red Bluff, CA

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My Finch Has Laid Some Eggs

My female Zebra Finch has laid eggs (4) in the seed dish. There is a nest in the cage, but I guess she liked the dish better. There is still seed in the dish, although I put another food dish in. Should I move the eggs to the nest or leave them. I'm afraid that the babies will smother in the seed when they hatch. Help please ASAP as the eggs are over a week old.
Thanks, Trisha

By Trisha from Lockport, NY

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Removing Mildew Smell From Carpet

How do you get rid of mildew smell? Is it good to be inhaling it everyday? We have the smell coming from our carpet in the office. It rained and got soaked, so now it smells.

By Janice from HI

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Cleaning a Linoleum Floor

I have either a linoleum or vinyl floor. The shine is gone and dirt is embedded in the tile. The only way I can get the floor clean and white is by using a magic eraser and cleaner. Is there anything I can do to bring back the shine?

By Theresa from Monroe, MI

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Hershey Kiss Letter

I saw a cute idea for Christmas. It was a letter and it said 1 kiss, and you put a Hershey kiss with the letter. I don't remember what all goes with it and what the letter said. Can anyone help?

By Eva from Miamisburg, OH

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Ice Maker Not Working

My Whirlpool side by side stopped making ice yesterday. It still dispenses water. Where should I look?

Thanks.
Rich

By Rich from Hamden, CT

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Fixing a Glider Rocker That Squeaks

I have a glider rocker and it squeaks terribly. I think it is the wood, not the bolts. Help please.

By Barb from Venice, FL

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Removing Bio Gel Nails

I currently have these bio gel nails which are the best quality nails on the market as they let your nail breathe and do not damage them, but they are expensive. I need to look professional for work and since my own nails aren't very strong and I am not good at doing my nails these are perfect and look incredible. I must say I am very happy with them.

The problem is, I will be done on my work contract in a couple of months which means I will not have money for the upkeep, but I do admit I love this new french manicure look. I would like to know if anyone knows how to remove these bio gel nails (I saw information on acrylic nails on here, but I don't have those and I imagine the process is different).

Also, what can I do to have an inexpensive french manicure look? I have seen fake nails at the drugstore and wondered if those would look as good.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

By Lisa from Halifax, NS

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Lipstick Stains on Clothing

I accidentally forgot to remove a tube of lipstick that was in my wool yellow jacket. I placed it in the dryer and it melted everywhere. How can I get these stains out?

By Candace

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Trouble Changing Sleep Schedule

I'm having a hard time creating new sleep habits. I worked for years at a hospital getting up at 3 am. and I still wake up at 3 am. Now I have a hard time keeping my eyes open past 8 pm, any suggestions?

By Carolyn from Springville, AL

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Removing Lip Balm from Car Upholstery

How do I remove lip balm from my fabric car seat?

By Anne from Perth, WA

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Pre-lit Tree Lights Not Working

When I plug in my pre-lit Christmas tree it only lights up one half of each section. What is wrong?

By Michelle from Riverside, CA

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Using Vinegar on Rosacea

Can I use vinegar for rosacea on my skin?

By Lucy from NY

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Ideas For My 17th Birthday

I am looking for ideas for my 17th birthday party.

By Brinyetta

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Advice on Painting Kitchen with Green Countertops

I am looking for suggestions on which color to paint my kitchen walls. I have light bleached oak cabinets and my countertop is dark green with black specks in it. My floor is green marble with black and white in it. What color would look best?

By Kathy from Chelsea, MA

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Repairing a Couch with Cigarette Burns

How do you repair a burn hole from a cigarette in a tan microfiber couch?

By Ty

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Removing Diesel Fuel Smell from Clothing

How do you get diesel fuel out of clothing?

By Marie

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Spouse Won't Sign Divorce Papers

I want to divorce my abusive wife, but I know she won't sign the papers. We have no children, own no property, and each have our own cars. What type of divorce do I need? Do I need a lawyer?

By Perry from Los Angeles, CA

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Ab Rocket Reviews

I want an honest review of the Ab Rocket. Does it hold up to daily use; are the connecting parts durable; is the unit comfortable to sit in and use? Any information offered would be greatly appreciated. I am a 60 year old woman in need of some "core" toning and need neck support while exercising. Thank you in advance for any thoughts.

By Susan from Albany, NY

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Touching Up Worn Spots on a Leather Sofa

I have a taupe leather love seat. I am looking for a creme consistency dye/tint to blend worn areas and scratches. The furniture manufacturer is no help. Has anyone used shoe dye cream, or another product, for a similar problem?

By Susan from Albany, NY

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Gift Ideas for a 13 Year Old Girl

What are some good gifts for a 13 year old girl besides, purse, clothes, make-up, and shoes? I need ideas for my little cousin.

By Mandy from CA

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What Breed is My Dog?

Is my 14 week old a full pit bull or mix? What do you think she is mixed with?

By Kristina from IN

What Breed is My Dog?

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Unclogging a Toilet

What is the soap trick to unclog a toilet?

By Bob from Dayton, OH

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Cat Peeing On Countertops

One of my 4 cats has been peeing on the kitchen countertop. How do I get them to stop and is there any magic way I could find out who the culprit is?

By Jeanne from Las Vegas, NV

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Home Remedies for House Flies

How can I get rid of my millions of houseflies? I have cleaned my fingers to the bone.

By Terri from Bethlehem

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Homemade Ice Packs

I am looking for instructions for a homemade ice bag with alcohol.

By Ellen from Holden, MO

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Cleaning a Burnt Microwave

How do I clean a burnt microwave?

By Celine from Dublin, Ireland

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Today's Sponsor:

Crafting for Fun and Money!

If you are an avid crafter, capable writer and own a digital camera, you are eligible to participate. Submit your craft projects to ThriftyFun and we will pay $15 for any crafts that we publish.

More Information:
Click Here: http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_craft.ldml

More Reading:

My Frugal Life: Saving Money and Water

I have lived a frugal life all my life. I am 1 of 11 children so we had to learn to save almost everything from food scraps to water saving. My Frugal LifeNow I have 4 children. Every summer, I place a bucket in the shower so we can still water my plants.

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