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Put the Kids On and Go for a Walk

Got kids? Don't waste money on a gym membership for fitness!

Pick them up (or put them on, like in this picture) and go for a long walk. My husband takes his firefighter's agility test (which one must have great cardiovascular health to pass), and he does it better and faster every year although he's getting older every year!

By Emily from RI

Put The Kids On And Go For A Walk

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Humorous Birthday Meal Setting

My husband has a wry sense of humor. The table was prepared for the birthday meal he made me! Unfortunately, I can't remember what he made as it was some years ago but he is a good cook.

By Skinnyjinny from Scotland

Humorous Birthday Meal Setting

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Frugal Freezer Shelf

I had a freezer with out the shelf inside. The food, all in different sizes and shapes, would pile up and slide everywhere. I put water in four bottles, found an old soda crate, and put it inside.

Once the water is frozen, you can either leave it right side up with things inside or turn it upside down, which makes it a bit more stable. (See the one in the back?)
Enjoy!

By Sandra from Salem OR

Making a Frugal Freezer Shelf

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Craft Project: Crochet Kitchen Towel

Crochet several of these and put them in handy places throughout your kitchen; on the oven door and the refrigerator handle are the best places for these. My version is different from most since I don't cut the towel in half, but fold it and use the whole towel. I use a bead from the old beaded car seats. However, you may use a large button just as easily.

Crochet Kitchen Towel

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Trudy (Maine Coon)

Trudy is a 4 year old Maine Coon cat. She arrived at our door one nasty cold fall day. She was very sick and starving. Her fur was so thin you could see her skin.

Once she became healthy, she had to learn how to play. Now she loves to play and cuddle. Her favorite spot is in front of the wood stove.

Trudy was a mess when she moved in with us, but now she is a beautiful and friendly member of the family.

By MB from Kingsville, OH

Trudy (Maine Coon)

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Say "No" to Pizza Delivery

My husband is laid off work and his unemployment still isn't straightened out, so money is even shorter than it should be. I just went back to work after being laid off for 2 weeks. So basically we are living on 1/2 our normal income. We all know it's hard to make the necessary cut backs when, come Friday night, you still want to order Pizza Hut. We have done a good job of talking ourselves out of it and in the end are happier for it.

Tonight I said "Let's just order Pizza Hut for once." My husband said, "Hmm, I like those little frozen pizzas from Save-A-Lot!" lol So, we decided on making our own Pizza Hut night! We made those little frozen pizzas (one each) and cooked spaghetti and opened a can of Heinz spaghetti sauce and had bread sticks! ALL from Save-A-Lot! Our supper cost us $5.50 instead of $22! And it tasted better!

By Ariela from Jax, FL

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Make a Virtual Bouquet

For Valentine's Day, I cut out a decorative arrangement from a glossy magazine (in this case of feathers and ribbon with a cupid, actually) and then mounted it with spray adhesive on some cardboard I had saved. I then trimmed the cardboard to fit the cutout. (I made the edges feathery.)

To give it flash, I then touched up the cutout with a golden marker. Then I put it on one of those metal upright stands usually used for photos. Mine had a leaf design. The fact that it is in the air really gives it a life of its own. Voila! a virtual flower arrangement. Perfect for an office or to send in the mail. Cost? Labor + the photo stand. I got mine for $.69 on sale - but you may have some lying around the house you could use. (Mine also looked great when combined with the greeting card I had downloaded from the net!)

Source: Inspired by an idea from, I think, Isaac Mizrahi

By Pam from Los Angeles

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Use Natural Paint Brushes for Applying Makeup

As a founding member of the 'Cheapa-Fillipa' club, I am always looking for ways to beat the price. My latest search started after I recovered from cancer and decided that part of the process to feel better was to look better. After spending countless hours watching TV during recuperation, I realized that I wanted to try some new make-up techniques.

One of the keys to putting on eye shadow was to use brushes instead of those stupid foam applicators. They never seemed to go on sale at Walgreens (where I ALWAYS buy make up due to their refund policy) so after pricing them, I thought, why not try paint brushes? They worked great! I found a set of natural fiber craft brushes at the local big box hardware store, normally $4.99 for 5, but they were on sale for .99 cents!

I then tried some from the dollar store that weren't natural fiber and they worked well also, though they were harsher on my skin, so it took more work to 'keep the touch light'. Out of the multi-pack I got 3 eye shadow sized brushes and 2 that work well for lipstick. Great cosmetic sponges at the dollar store too.

I have found that since I am older and my skin has lost elasticity, a lighter hand with the make up goes a long way, and while I am no raving beauty, it gives me a better attitude to be putting my best face forward each day!

By Lori from Milwaukee, WI

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Cashing Checks at WalMart

I just wanted to share a way you can save from accumulating those excessive service charges from banks or regular check cashing services. Since I closed my checking account, I now go to Walmart to cash my Payroll check and it only costs me $3.00. I then upload my paycheck to the Walmart reloadable ATM/Visa card, which only allows me to spend what I have put on there, no more, no less. This way I keep within my budget and don't overdraw my card. This has saved me so much money over the last few months!

By Dorsi from Fremont, CA

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Replace Fitted Sheets

I know this is not the thriftiest tip ever submitted but it works great for me. I had several sets of King size sheets where the bottom sheet was "pilly" and the elastic all stretched out and quite bothersome. So I went to Walmart and bought 2 different color fitted king size sheets at $12.00 each to replace those.

I got 2 new sets of sheets for $24.00 less than the cost of 1 new set of sheets at Walmart. I know there are ways to fix the old bottom sheets, but I don't sew and the elastic is expensive so this was a quick fix for me. I picked 2 colors that were most predominant in the sets and viola, 3 new sets.

I love this site and love all the great tips that are submitted. I will use the old worn out sheets in the garden for frost cloths or painting drop cloths or something so they won't go to waste.

By Lynn from South Texas

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Cold Water Can Be Too Cold to Get Clothes Clean

While waiting in a commercial establishment, I perused an old Martha Stewart Living magazine, might have been the Sept. 08 issue. She indicated that a cold water laundry wash in the very cold winter may be too cold for the detergent to function properly (even detergent specifically made for cold water) because the water is too cold. Thought I'd share this info. Actual temperatures were mentioned in the article if anyone needs further information.

Source: Martha Stewart Living Magazine

By Holly from Richardson, TX

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Keep Small Scissors Available When Doing Cross Stitch

I love to do cross stitch, but I am always misplacing my small scissors. I found a nifty and quick solution. I had an extra clip from a name badge; the ones that have a plastic loop with a snap on one end and a clip on the other. I put the scissor handle through the loop end and snap it shut. Then I clip the scissors to my shirt or sewing basket. Now I don't worry about losing my scissors!

By Melissa from Arizona

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Time Saving Tips for Lasagna

Most everyone loves lasagna but it is time consuming. I make mine on the weekends and either freeze or refrigerate until I bake them. I make several at a time. If you have a timer on your oven, then you can pop it in the morning and it will be ready when you get home in the afternoon or evening. Another time saver that I use for lasagna is that I don't cook my noodles. I spread the ricotta right on the noodle then layer with my sauce and cheese. Make sure to leave the lasagna in the refrigerator or freezer at least over night. The noodles will get softened by the moisture in the sauce and ricotta cheese.

By Karen from Green Cove Springs, FL

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Add Leftover Cheese to Sauces

I love different cheeses but I don't always get to finish them, so if I have some leftover that has gone moldy I cut off the mold and make them into a cheese sauce. Depending if you get different cheeses each time you end up with some quite nice tasting cheese sauces and no two are ever the same.

By Jackie from Adelaide, Australia

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Soup Savvy

I save all veggie peels, cooking water, cores, meat bones, etc., and always have a pot simmering on the woodstove. I am assured of having homemade soup stock on hand at all times. However, as much as we love it, my finicky teenaged daughter refuses to sample my soups du jour.

I thought I had a solution. As of late we have been deluged with coupons and great grocery store deals for canned soup, until I read the labels! I was shocked at the amount of sodium they contain. But, naturally, DD requests this stuff on an almost daily basis. So, when she's not looking, I pour out the canned soup stock and replace it with my healthy, tasty version. She's never noticed the switcheroo!

By Marilyn A. from Milford, NH

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

During a county-wide drive to round up all unlicensed dogs, a patrolman signaled a car to pull over to the curb. When Bubba asked why he had been stopped, the officer pointed to the big dog sitting on the seat beside him.

"Does your dog have a license?" he asked.

"No way," Bubba said, "Ol' Blue don't need none. He's getting too shortsighted fer doin' the drivin'.

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

Second Hand Appliance Store in Toronto, Ontario

Can anyone recommend a good 2nd hand appliance store in Toronto, Ontario? I'm looking at buying a washer and dryer for an apartment. Thanks!

websheep from Toronto, ON

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Hiding Computer Cords

What is an inexpensive way to cover and hide all the computer cords?

Chloe

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Selling Digital Photos

Can anyone give me photography advice. I am a beginning photographer and want to know how to make money with digital images. How to make them into cards, wall art, post cards, and maybe enhance them on the computer. Any advice will be very helpful.

Nelliemary from West Virginia

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Keeping Hair Off of Towels

How can I keep hair from clinging to my towels during washing and drying? They come out of the dryer full of hair! Help!

rjw from GA

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Keeping Moths Off Clothes

How do I get rid of moths? They are eating up my wool sweaters. I know of moth crystals, but is there something else that doesn't smell so bad?

Sandy

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Making Spirit Gifts for High School Dance Team

My daughter's high school dance team is going to Nationals and I would like to make spirit gifts for the girls (17 of them). Any ideas or thoughts?

Deb from VA

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Cheese Sauce for Broccoli

How do you make a creamy cheese sauce to pour over broccoli? I like it very cheesy and I make it with real hard cheddar cheese but within minutes after Im done cooking it starts to harden.

Onesummer

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Chocolate Cake Recipe Using Cocoa

I wonder if anyone has an easy recipe for chocolate cake using cocoa instead of cooking chocolate? I would really appreciate this. I do love this site!

Bujubaby from Drysdale, Victoria, Australia

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Easy Crocheted Flowers Pattern

I am looking for a easy Crocheted Flowers pattern.

Judy from Traverse

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Paint Color Advice for a Home Office

I need help with choosing a wall paint color for a home office. I would like something cheery. The floor is light oak wood, the ceiling white and the baseboard and trim high glossy white. Any ideas? Thanks!

Susan from Huntsville, AL

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Ideas for 80th Birthday Favors

I am having an 80th birthday party for my mom. I need an idea for party favors that the guests could have as a remembrance of the event. I need to have around 100 and need to keep the cost reasonable. Also any decorating ideas would be appreciated.

Brenda from Coshocton, Ohio

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Getting Rid of Pimples

I have pimples and have tried what seems like every product on the shelves and none of them work. Do you guys have any suggestions for me?

Ben from Ottawa, ON

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Replacing a 15/20 Breaker

Can you replace a 15/20 breaker with a 20/20 breaker, or replace it with a 15/15 breaker. I have tried to find a 15/20 breaker but can't find them anywhere.

Darla

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Recipe Ideas for Potato Crisps

I recently bought some Potato Crisps at Costco. They are individually wrapped freeze dried potatoes, a low cal alternative to potato chips. I don't like them and can't get the kids to eat them so they are just sitting there.

I was thinking that the consistency is sort of like the boxed au gratin potatoes before you cook them. I thought I could try some scalloped potato dishes maybe. They aren't bad, just taste like raw potato. Does anyone else have any ideas

By the way, the Popchips (a puffed potato chip alternative) are pretty good. Ahh, potato chip, how I miss you!

Jess from Oregon

Recipe Ideas for Potato Crisps

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Greenish Spots on Black Pants

My black short pants have greenish spots after washing. Any idea how I can make them black again? I would appreciate some advice.

Magie

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Removing Grout from Mosaic Tiles

My first mosaic has too much dried grout on the tiles. Any suggestions on how to remove?

Pam from Flager Beach, FL

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The 4 Ingredient Cookbook

Does anyone know where I can find a used or new, cheap or free recipe book called The 4 Ingredient Cookbook?

Sue from Goshen, IN

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Remedy for Dark Circles Under Eyes

How can I get rid of black circles under my eyes? Seemafahim from Pakistan

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What is This Plant?

I received this potted plant for Valentine's day and I have no idea what the plants are or how to take care of it. If you have any idea what they are please let me know.Thanks.

AmyD1978

What is This Plant?

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Swedish Meatball Recipe

I need a recipe for Swedish meatballs using pork and beef or just pork.

Kit from Grande Prairie, Canada

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Putting Ice Cubes in Garbage Disposal

I was just wondering if it is OK to periodically put a few ice cubes down the garbage disposal and run it? Would it clean and sharpen the blades? I think I remember someone telling me that it was a good idea. Just wondering what you think. Thanks!

Jeanette

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Puppy is Having Stomach Spasms

We've had a dog with Parvo for 8 days now and we have done all the home remedies told to us by our vet and other sources of advice. She is eating on her own, the diarrhea is gone and she has not vomited at all. But now she is having these weird stomach spasms, almost like a cough or hiccups. What is going on and what can I do to relieve these symptoms?

Alysa from Indianapolis, IN

Puppy is Having Stomach Spasms

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Homemade Cleaner for Pet Urine Odors

I need a simple recipe for removing pet urine odors that I can make myself.

Debbie

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Dog With Soft Stool

My 2 month old puppy has soft stool, what do I do?

Vanessa from Bronx, NY

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Sleepover Party Ideas for Girls

My daughter's best friend will be coming over for a sleepover. She will stay the night and be here until late the next day. What should I do to keep them from feeling bored? My daughter enjoys Scrabble and we have a large cinema room at our home. What DVDs would six year olds enjoy? What about food?

Yi from Berkeley, CA

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Crown Royal Bag Quilt

I am making a quilt and was wondering if anyone knew where I can buy a gold colored material to match the gold color in crown royal bags. I have looked at several stores and cant seem to find the right color. Thanks.

Mary from Lone Pine, CA

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Inexpensive Pasta Dishes

Do you have any family tested, inexpensive pasta dishes to share? Feel free to post your ideas and ideas below.

Inexpensive Pasta Dishes

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Saving Money on Steak

Tips and advice for saving money on steak. Do you have any tips for saving money on steak? Or, do you have any foolproof ways for cooking a steak so that nothing goes to waste? Feel free to post your ideas below.

Saving Money on Steak

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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

Using Basil

Basil comes in many varieties. It usually has oval shaped leaves with pointed tips and lightly serrated edges. Basil is considered the "king of herbs" by many chefs. It is often used in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines. Basil has been known to help with headaches and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a good source of vitamin A, magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium and vitamin C.

Using Basil

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Daily Thrifty Tips - February 19, 2009

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