May 08, 2009

Daily Thrifty Tips - May 8, 2009


Vol. 8, Num. 91, May 8, 2009 (Read It Online)

We would like to wish all the Mom's a very happy Mother's Day weekend!

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.

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Today's Photos:

Craft Project: Mother's Day Teapot Card

This card and tea bag will bring a smile to any mother's face.

Craft Project: Mother's Day Teapot Card

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Ginger (Boxer/Border Terrier Mix)

Ginger is a 6 year old Boxer, Border Terrier mix. Ginger was a foster dog that we adopted when she was 2 years old. She likes to sit by the front window, chase squirrels and I also made up a game called Pinchy Bug that I play with her. Ginger is as sweet as can be and she makes wonderful expressions with her face.

By CaroleeRose from Madison, AL

Ginger (Boxer/Border Terrier Mix)

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Garden: Blue Morning Glories

Opening the back door to this display of morning glories was a breath-taking pleasure.

By radioflyer from Scottsville, NY

Blue Morning Glories

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Wildlife: Cardinal Photos

This was taken in our yard. The wind blew down the feeder and my favorite cardinal and his mate had fun eating out of the bird feeder on the ground.

By Linda from Erial, New Jersey

Wildlife: Cardinal Photos

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Flowers To Attract Hummingbirds

When I put up my first hummingbird feeder, I didn't think I would be lucky enough to attract them. My husband and I were sitting on our patio, and as he was saying "I don't think we'll get a hummingbird here, we're in the middle of a development", a Ruby Throated Hummingbird comes swooping down to take a drink of nectar from the feeder I had hung. That was 14 years ago, and they are still a joy to watch.

Flowers To Attract Hummingbirds

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Craft: Porch Swing

Nothing makes your home look better, than a new porch swing. My husband made mine out of scrap lumber and paint. What a nice place to relax!

By vguy from Earle, AR

Craft: Porch Swing

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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:

Use Your Scanner to Make Custom Scrapbooking Paper

For custom scrapbooking paper line your scanner or copier bed with a sheet of clear plastic (to protect it). Next take anything you'd like to copy like shells, small stones, pasta, flowers, grass, cookies, candy, chocolate chips, crayons, sewing supplies, yarn, bubble wrap, lace and even birdseed or dried pet food. Place it carefully on top of the plastic liner sheet then scan or copy it.

You will end up with some of the most amazing scrapbooking paper around! It looks totally real. Color usually works best, but some things (like lace) look wonderful in black and white.

By Cyinda from near Seattle

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Caring for a Deaf and Blind Puppy

I have been working with a 9 week old puppy that is deaf and blind. It is very bright and able to learn fast. I have only had it for a few days and it knows the routine of the household rules already; where to sleep, where the food is, etc. It does have trouble getting down stairs, it must have fallen.

I have been exhausted but it has been worth it, taking it out all the time and encouraging it to go outside in the grass. I have slept on the couch for three days. I've had my hand on her at all times, since it can't handle a kennel yet. Aussie breeds have a voice that can shatter glass.

I found that putting flattened aluminum cans in areas I don't want her to visit has helped her stay away from cords, etc. I have found aluminum foil on the cords is a waste of time. I tried it and it attracted her to chew on the cords. So aluminum cans work so well to keep some puppies out of trouble and also to alert you to when they are somewhere they shouldn't be.

Also, I made a square of aluminum foil into a butterfly shape by cinching it in the middle and hanging them out by the carport. The birds had been messing a LOT on our cars and now there is not much at all. Today I put those little toy windmills, those metal looking little thingies that blow in the wind, and they are staying away more than ever! They sit on the phone wires and stare and then fly off. How hilarious!

I am glad I found these things out about aluminum!

By Robyn Fed from Hampton, TN

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Mix Nail Polish Colors for a Custom Look

Are you almost out of your favorite color of nail polish and can't afford to buy more this week? Then just get 2 bottles of different colors you have already, and mix them together to make a new color. Don't add any polish remover to it though, it will ruin it. I do this when I get low on polish, and it works fine. Try it.

By Laurie from Oregon

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Share Summer Childcare With Stay at Home Parents

School is almost out. It's great for about a week or so then your down to keeping your kids busy and out of your hair! If your a stay home parent, it can drive you crazy.

So get four other stay home parents together, and agree for everyone to watch all the kids one day of the week. Oh, you will be super busy on the day it's your turn. But if you plan out activities and rest time, it will be worth it, because you have the other four days off.

You can make it easier if you have parents provide the lunches and snacks. The older children are really good at entertaining the younger ones, and it's good social time for the kids. The greatest thing is no cost for summer child care! If you're worried about the amount of children, then stick with families with one or two kids. That's a very doable group. For safety reasons, be sure to work with families and relatives you know well.

By Tracey from Thomasville, GA

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Shampoo for Ring Around the Collar

Got ring around the collar? I've found that since the stain is basically caused by the same body oils that make our hair greasy, why not use shampoo to clean that greasy stain on our collars? I keep a cheap brand of shampoo over my washer, and pre-treat the collar ring with it. Does a great job! Small sample bottles or ones that have accumulated from many hotel visits are also a good source for the shampoo.

By Sandy from Elon, NC

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Banana Peels for Roses

For beautiful roses; I emulsify 'old' bananas-peel and all in my blender with water. Pour this on the base of the rose bush. You will not believe how this works.

By Laurie from St. Charles, MO

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A Drop of Ammonia for Fertilizing Green Plants

I have found that for green plants like ivy, about every 2 - 4 weeks, I add one drop of ammonia to the watering; that's one drop per plant. The green plants, not flowering ones, like the nitrogen. It makes them green and pretty. I got the idea from Jerry Baker to use it as a fertilizer.

By chris from San Pedro, CA

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Use Cereal Liner as Wax Paper

I seldom use waxed paper. In fact I usually only use it when my husband makes hamburgers on the grill, to layer the raw patties in so they won't stick.

Instead of buying waxed paper just for this use, I save the waxy bags that line the cereal boxes. When I empty the box, I open the bag along the seam and roll it over a tube in an old waxed paper box and put in the drawer.

I never pay for it, and we always have it.

By mom-from-missouri from NW Missouri

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Cheap, Easy Bird Feeders

For a cheap, easy bird feeder, string strands of fruit flavored cereal loops on tree or bush branches. You can also press peanut butter into crevices of pine cones and coat them with birdseed. This works great, especially if you live in an apartment building like I do, and can't hang large sized bird feeders in trees and bushes.

Source: Democrat and Chronicle - a local newspaper found years ago.

By elyag from Rochester, NY

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Keeping Cheese Moist

Cheese will not dry out, if stored wrapped in a cloth dampened in vinegar.

By Ronda F. from Wichita, KS

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

Women don't need conventional tools around the house, we'll use anything that's handy. But when pounding a nail, don't use a shoe - shoes cost $40 a pair. A package of frozen hamburgers costs $2. Use the hamburger.

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

New Requests:

Bugs on Topsy-Turvy Plant

I have a topsy-turvy plant that is about 18 to 20 inches long. It is having a problem with bugs. The leaves are getting eaten by a very small worm-like bug inside of the leaves. It seems healthy anyway but a lot of the leaves have this in them. What can I do? Please help. Thank you. Jeffery

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Jerry Lee Lewis Wedding Ideas

I am trying to figure out how to do a Jerry Lee Lewis wedding but can't think of anything. Could someone please give me some ideas?

By wolfiebrat from Sulphur, LA

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Fixing Emerson Cassette Player

RE: Emerson Complete Stereo System, with AM/FM Stereo Radio, CD and Cassette Player and Full Size Stereo Phonograph--MODEL: NR305TT - S/N: 50805034CA.

I have never been able to use the cassette player because it sounds like chipmunks singing really fast. Possibly a factory defect? Any suggestions and/or perhaps even a forum website might be helpful. My warranty has now expired. Thanks in advance.

One Disappointed Music Lover

By Earthly Angel Mom from Brandenburg KY

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Diabetes and Smooth Away

I would like to know why Smooth Away says diabetics should not use it?

By JCWOL from Leesburg, FL

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Making Massage Candles

Where can I purchase cocoa butter, almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter to make massage candles? Thanks. Joyce

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Removing Tape Residue From Painted Trim

How do I remove sticky tape residue from painted window trim? It is the double sided tape that was used for weather proofing the window.

By MomOf5 from Osceola, NE

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Backsplash Ideas for Granite Countertops

I am looking for some advice and designs on installing a kitchen backsplash after installing a granite countertop. I would like to see pictures if possible or designs or suggestions. Please help!

By daradams from Lexington, KY

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Temporary Coverings for Mobile Home Paneling

I am renting a mobile home and we can't repaint the walls. It is the old style trailer with ugly, huge purple flowered paneling on it. Please help!

By lkoontz from Quincy, IL

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What is This Song?

There's this song I heard in church today and it goes "As a church we rise against the enemy, strength and power in your name as we stand triumphantly". Then it goes "You are the answer". If you could please help me with the name of the song I would be so happy. Thank you!

By bobstewart12 from El Paso, TX

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Discontinued Wallpaper: Imperial Wallcoverings #GC2001

I am looking for a single or double roll of the following wallpaper by Imperial Wallcoverings. Pattern: GC2001 - American Country Book: New Country Gear/American Country Page 135? Does anyone know where to get it online or a location in Northern CA/Bay Area. Thanks.

By kgchad from CA

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Getting Rid of June Bugs

I am trying to find information on june bugs and how to get rid of them. We need lights on at night, so turning them off is not an option.

By vegasrose from Glen Carbon, IL

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Will Vinegar Harm New Trees?

Will using vinegar to destroy grass and weeds between bricks harm newly planted trees?

By youpper2 from Ontonagon, MI

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Clearing Vegetation from Property

I have about 14 acres of property. The timber was removed from it about 10 years ago, so now I have about 10 years of growth to deal with. My wife and I are planning on building a house on the property, and will be clearing a couple of acres of land to do it. It's really thick, but the largest trees I'll be dealing with are little pines that are about 2 in. in diameter.

I've run heavy equipment most of my life, and I'm thinking that a "bush hog" might do the job. I've watched a couple of videos of guys getting off into some pretty serious vegetation with a hog, and it seems to be the way to go. I don't want to go in with a dozer because I don't want to disturb the ground that much right now. Not to mention the fact that I don't want mud all over the place. What are your thoughts on this?

By 01indianbob from Ore City, TX

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Attaching Snaps to Fabric

Is there an easy and quick way to apply snaps to a garment? Years ago I bought a snap gadget that applies snaps to material but I couldn't get it work right and finally gave up on it. Please help me step by step with tips. Or if you know a way to apply snaps without a gadget, that would be even better. Thanks.

By suzyspinkmoon from Clinton, TN

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Patterns for Dog Bandannas

I am looking for dog scarf patterns in all sizes. I like the bandanna type but with snaps or buttons.

By suzyspinkmoon from Clinton, TN

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Dog Will Only Eat Liver

We have a four year old English Bulldog (Sir Winston Oliver Campbell of Stongate) whose eating habits have become increasingly harder to meet. My husband has spoiled him just a bit and now all he'll eat is pure liver. If I grind it up and mix it with veggies he'll go hungry first. I am concerned about his health as I am sure a pure protein diet is not good for him. Has anyone else had this problem and if so, how did they over come it? I love this dog!

By jcamp9 from Niagara

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Can ProMeris Make a Puppy Sleepy?

does anyone know if ProMeris can make a puppy sleepy?

By Marthas455 from Claxton, GA

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Second Mortgage on Foreclosed House

I had a house in GA which is foreclosed. I also had a second mortgage on it for $36,000. The collectors are calling me daily to pay the debt. Am I required to pay back the 2nd mortgage even though it was secured against my house? What can the debt collectors do if I am not able to pay it back?

By Gichan from PA

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Chocolate Themed Birthday Ideas

I've decided to have a chocolate themed birthday party. I'm going to have a chocolate fountain and different types of chocolates, truffles and desserts. I'm decorating my lounge to look like a mini cafe and putting the movie "Chocolat" on in the background. I'm am looking for ideas for something else to do besides just eating. I would like something to fit with the theme and will take around an hour. Thanks.

By Gemmab from Feilding, New Zealand

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Caring for a Turtle

My kids just got a pet water turtle from a neighbor. Does anyone have any good information on care and feeding them?

By bizzymom from Orlando, FL

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Homemade Garden Hose Holder

I am looking for ideas on how to make a garden hose holder/winder? I don't mind if it sits on the ground or is mounted to the house. I just need someone's creativity to help me come up with a way not to spend $50 on a contraption that holds a garden hose.

By editornj from NJ

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Cleaning Porcelain Stove Grates

How do I clean bisque porcelain grates on my GE gas stove?

By Gabbiegab from IL

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Dryer Not Running With Door Shut

All of a sudden my electric clothes dryer will only work with the door open. When you close the door it stops. Does anyone know what to do?

By mommashell39 from Hemet, CA

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Ducks Not Sitting on Eggs

I have ducks and they are laying eggs. They do not sit on them all the time just a small part of the day. Will the eggs still hatch?

By daddyrabbit from Calhoun City, MS

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Removing Mold from Shower Walls

I am looking for tips on how to remove mold from my shower walls.

By lovemyfamily from TX

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Monster Truck Themed Birthday Party

I'm planning a backyard 1st birthday party for my son. I'm wanting to do games for children. The problem is I can't find anything with a Monster Jam theme. Please help I really want it to be fun for my son and his guests. Any monster truck theme ideas? Thanks.

By lovemyfamily from TX

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Crepe Myrtles Have Aphids

I have crape myrtles and it's looks like the aphids are getting the best of them. Some are affected and some are not. The ones that are, are all in the same area. What should I use to get rid of them?

Also, everything is blooming, and some of the other crape myrtles are blooming, but not the the three in question. I also have grasshoppers that are in my yard. I bought some "Seven". I haven't used it yet, will it work on the aphids as well? I know to be careful, because we don't want to kill the good insects. Thank you.

Hardiness Zone: 9a

By Justdottie from Lincoln, CA

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Pee Stains Around Toilet

What can I use to clean the pee stain around my comode? I have tried everything.

By Bettyone from Cocoa, FL

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Plant Light for Growing Herbs Indoors

I can't remember the name of it, but there is a fairly new plant light that sells for about $120 that you use to grow your herbs and whatever in the house. Has anyone tried it, and is it really worth that much money? Thank you.

Hardiness Zone: 7a

By {amsfriskd from Wichita, KS

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Keeping Grilled Hamburgers Fresh

I'm having a graduation party and serving over 100 grilled hamburgers. Any ideas on how to keep them fresh? I'd like to cook most of them early on in the party.

By myoungy from Minneapolis, MN

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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:

Plan a Green Nursery
By Debra Frick

Ahh, you are expecting a new baby. Such a joy! Well by now you are well on your way to planning your nursery. Here are some ideas for keeping your nursery green, safe and healthy.

Plan a Green Nursery

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The Do's And Don'ts Of Buying Trees and Shrubs
By Ellen Brown

Trees and shrubs are a great way to add real value to your landscape. Because they have a lifespan that can potentially outlast you and your house, it pays shop smart. A failure to plan can spell disaster down the road-for your trees and shrubs, and for your pocketbook.

The Do's And Don'ts Of Buying Trees and Shrubs

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