Daily Thrifty Tips - September 18, 2008

While it may seem like Christmas is a long ways off, it's never too early to start budgeting for Christmas. Do you have any ideas for easing the amount of stress that Christmas can cause yourself and your pocket book? Feel free to share you deas here:

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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.

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Feed Dogs Yogurt for Allergies

My dog Dazee has problems with allergies that cause her to chew, lose hair and get sick. After treating her with cortisone shots, not only was it becoming expensive to visit the Vet, the expensive foods we bought she refused to eat. Then this past January, she was in real bad shape, and I had recently started eating yogurt a lot and it was helping me with my digestive system. I thought well I will try yogurt on her food.

She not only loved it, and refuses to eat her food without it, but within a week she started chewing less and growing her hair back. She started getting her energy back as well. within a month all her hair had grown back, she gained weight, and she was spunky as when she was a puppy. So if any of you are at your wits end with trying to help your dog with the allergies, digestive problems, give yogurt a try. I use organic, plain yogurt. It's a lot cheaper than trips to the vet! Here is a pic of what she looked like when we first started the yogurt treatment. It broke my heart when I couldn't help her. Thank God for yogurt!

By Heather from Clinton, WA

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Craft Project: Origami Basket

Here is another wonderful paper craft from Maricel.

Click Here to download a PDF with step by step photo instructions for making this origami basket.

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Save Your Pringles Lids For Covering Yogurt Containers

If you recycle your Pringles cans, keep the lids.

Most yogurts don't come with them anymore, and most of them can be used for food or crafts. However, without lids, they are great for plants starts but not much else. With the Pringles lid, you can use it for just about anything, even ice cubes for picnic lunches or leftovers.

I have found some plastic picnic pitcher/glass sets that work perfect for the Pringles lids. That keeps the bugs out of your drinks when you are away from the picnic table.

By Sandra from Salem OR

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Craft: Suitcase Dog Bed

I saw this on the Creative Home Arts Club site. It was too cute not to share.

Perfect for your on-the-go, fashion-forward pooch and charming enough to accent any room in your home, the suitcase dog bed is more than just a soft place for Spot to rest his head.

Recycle an old hard-sided suitcase or buy one that complements your decor. Change out the lining, paint or add printed or textured paper to the exterior, and you've got a piece of art that any dog can curl up with.

Create an even more customized look by using fun fabric to sew a pillow, a small blanket, and matching toys. Elevate the bed by adding four wooden block legs and have fun painting them to match your accents.

Stylish and functional, the suitcase dog bed is sure to attract more than just your dog's attention. Not a dog person? Try a smaller suitcase cat bed with a comfy cushion and matching catnip-stuffed toys for your feline friend. (Getting the cat to travel is a challenge for another day!)

Share this idea with a pet-loving friend and get ready to hit the road in style!

By Pico from St. Paul, Alberta

Editor's Note: Here is a link to the site:

• http://www.creativehomeartsclub.com/Main/default.aspx

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In Memory Of Goopie (Boxer)

Goopie is a 2 year old Boxer. I got him when he was 7 months old. A couple at work couldn't keep him in their new apartment and they gave him to me.

He loved to play fetch hours and hours. Goopie got cancer and was taken into heaven on May 10, 2007 and we miss him terribly. We lost our baby.

By Connie from Paintsville, KY

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Use Lidocaine To Ease Mammogram Pain

To ease the pain during your mammogram, apply over-the-counter lidocaine on breasts before the exam. It works better than aspirin or any other pain reliever.

By Deb from Dayton, OH

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Using Analog VCR with Converter Box

We wanted to use our analog VCR with the new converter box (bought with a government issue coupon) for the analog TV. Had to call Customer Service for information as the TV would not communicate with the VCR no matter what I did.

The rep said to purchase co-axial splitter at an electronics store. Make sure it is NOT for Broadband. Attach the antenna to one side, and to the other side with two outputs, attach the vcr and the converter box. Leave the connection from the TV to the converter box alone.

I hope this helps someone out there! At the very least, it will save you a couple of wasted hours and aggravation trying to get the TV and VCR to function!

Source: Customer Service Rep for RCA DTA800 converter box

By Holly from Richardson, TX

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ThriftyFun Mentioned In Reader's Digest Article: "My Family's No-Buy Experiment"

There is an article in Reader's Digest - October 2008 "My Family's No Buy Experiment" by David Hochman that tells about frugal living AND the first thing that happens is the family has a plumbing problem. Where do they go to get advice? ThriftyFun.com

I'm thinking there are going to be a lot of new members this month! I hope our trusty website is ready for a BIG hit! Reader's Digest is published in "50 editions in 21 languages, in Braille, on cassette, in large print and in a digital version"

How do you like them apples? WHOOPIE!

You can read the article in Reader's Digest October 2008 on page 124-129

By Nancycorinne from Los Angeles, CA

Editor's Note: Glad you saw it in print Nancy and thank you for sharing the exact issue it is in. You can read the article that features us here:

• My Family's No-Buy Experiment

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Getting Ready For School In Advance

My son just started kindergarten, I work part-time and my husband works second shift. So at night, preparing for school the next day is all up to me! To help myself stay organized, I do the following:

• I typed up a checklist so that at night, I know exactly what needs to be done for the next day and if I did it. For example, some of the things I have listed to check off are "Lunches Made", "Backpack Ready To Go", "Teeth Brushed", etc. As each thing is done, I check it off. It really helps me feel more organized and be sure there's nothing I missed!

• I also set out the next day's outfit--for my son AND myself! Saves time in the morning; after showers, etc., just get dressed without wasting time to choose an outfit.

• On Sunday, I make a "menu" for my son's lunches for the coming week, divided by day. For example, Monday might be: ham, string cheese, applesauce, carrots and whole wheat crackers. I write every item down. I do this for each day, putting down everything I need for that day's lunch. That way, on weeknights I can just pack lunch quickly without having to even think about it. (I've already done the thinking ahead of time, on Sunday!)

• I set out any non-perishable breakfast foods so that in the morning, we can just add milk (or whatever the case) and sit down to breakfast without any fuss.

• I look through my son's backpack as soon as he gets home, for any notes from school, etc. He also needs to take a snack with for each afternoon, so I put that in a pocket on the outside of his backpack, sign any papers, etc. then hang it on a hook by our stairs so I can just grab the backpack and my purse in the morning and go out the door.

By Lisa from Kenosha, WI

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Use A Shower Extension Rod To Keep Large Flat Objects Upright

To store large flat objects such as picture frames or odd shapes such as wrapping paper tubes, etc. Use a shower extension rod at the back of a closet. Secure the rod, and place objects behind it.

Source: I had originally sent this to Tip King about 3 years ago.

By Mary C. from Newark, California

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Apple Cider Vinegar For Treating Rain Rot On Horses

I have horses. Recently they got rain rot. This is a BACTERIAL, not fungal infection. I have used fungicides in the past for another rain rot infection my mare got 7 years ago. I bathed her every day with topical fungicides and betadines and it took months and months and she lost all her hair. When she got it back recently (as well as her mother), I wasn't going through the fungicide route yet again.

I did research online and decided to literally pour apple cider vinegar onto where she broke out (yes it burns, but it dries out the many sores). Take a stiff brush and scrub the infected areas. Do NOT share the brushes! In 4 days, YES, 4 days, the mares were remarkably better and were no longer hurting or sore. Two days later all the lesions and scabs were GONE!

That was a week ago. Now, every few days, I spray some ACV on the areas just to keep it at bay. It also softens their hair.

It literally cleared up the rain rot in 6 days... not weeks... not months!

By Deltaqueen from Mississippi

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Product Review: Body Butter

Product: Body Butter

Model: Mazium Moisture Cream

Manufacturer: April Bath and Shower

Cost: $1.00 plus tax

I purchased this cream at the Dollar Tree, looking for something to keep in my purse, to keep my hands from chapping. Where we live the water is very harsh and drying. I have tried other creams from the dollar store and found that some of them to be watered down. This stuff is amazing. It is thick, so you do not need to use a lot (I brought my tube in June and I am still on the same tube). I even love the fragrance which is kind of strong. People always me what is name of the lotion I am wearing. It comes in coconut, grape pomegranate. I like the grape. It is the best dollar I have every spent. Every payday, I will go and get at least 3 tubes (sometimes the Dollar Tree will not carry an item for long). This stuff is great.

By Georgetta from Waterloo, IA

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Avoid Cleaning Chemicals With Microfiber

I just purchased microfiber towels and a microfiber mop from QVC.com and I love them. You use the towels to clean almost anything without chemicals. Use them slightly wet to clean countertops, your stove, the bathroom sink, etc. I have never been able to get the shower glass to look clean. This works great, I just follow the wet towel with a dry one. Same with windows. NO chemicals. The mop came with a dust mop and a wet mop. You wet mop, with no chemicals and it drys fast! I love them and no wasting paper towels to clean with, and when you are through just throw in the washing machine.

Source: QVC.com.

By Greyroma from Oklahoma City

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Make A Fiber Art Bracelet With Fabric Scraps

What to do with scraps of fabric and yarn? Make a fiber art bracelet. Take any old plastic bangle and start wrapping your scraps. Knot each piece all over till you get the feel you want. You will be such a fashion plate.

Source: I am a recycle artist and I sell mine at http://www.funkyluke.etsy.com. I just wanted to share some thing fun!

By Laura from Newberry, Florida

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Use Produce Bags to Cover Your Casseroles in the Fridge

I find that the large plastic bags that you put your produce into at the grocery store recycle to make wonderful 'covers' for your casseroles such as Lasagna pan size or smaller for storage in the refrigerator. Just make sure the printing on the bag is on the outside when you slide your casserole into it. My husband now even saves the clean produce bags for me to reuse since we are both retired. Saves money and recycles at the same time!

By MaryCrane from Orange Park, Fl

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Researching Old Wine Bottles

I have what I believe are two wine bottles that were made in Italy. I do not know much about them. I am hoping someone could tell me a little bit about them. I would like to know how old they are and if they are worth anything?

Rebecca from Brunswick, Ga

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Crustless Egg Custard Recipe

I lost a recipe for crustless egg custard that you did not have to cook in a water bath. This is such a wonderful comfort food and I miss it! Thanks.

LaDonna from Simpsonville, SC

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Cordless Kettle Sticking To Base

My cordless kettle is sticking to the base. Any suggestions?

Trish from London, England

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Creme Brulee Recipe

I am looking for a great tasting creme brulee recipe and a quick way of melting the brown sugar topping without burning it.

Carolyn from Murrieta, CA

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Unclogging a Shower Drain

My toilets are clogged along with my shower. They are right next to each other and calling a plumber is totally out of the budget. Any ideas to help me unclog? Plunging doesn't do it. Thanks for your feedback.

Alison from Tempe, AZ

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Eco-Friendly Flea Remedies

How to get rid of fleas from yard and house and pets. Eco friendly remedies, please.

Joe from Georgia

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Dishwasher Won't Drain

My dishwasher water will not drain out. Does anyone know what I can do about this?

Elva from Shreveport, LA

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Fixing a Muddy Area In My Yard

One side of our yard is always wet and muddy. Can anyone suggest a cheap fix?

Pat from College Station, TX

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Cleaning a Dooney & Bourke Purse

Can I wash my Dooney bag in a pillow case with Woolite?

Tashika from Hammond, LA

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Mildew On Clothing

I've gotten mildew on a football jersey, and a delicate pastel pink cardigan. How can I get it out without wrecking the fabric?

Kelly from Richland, MI

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Dishwasher Not Draining Water

My dishwasher is not draining completely. Does any one have a suggestion on an easy fix? Or what the cause may be.

Dan from Edmonds, WA

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Halloween Costumes For Big People

My husband and I are of "generous proportion", any ideas for Halloween costumes for big people? Much appreciated, thanks. =)

Karen from Santa Rosa, CA

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"Squeeze My Cheeks" Santa Pattern

I need to know if anyone has a pattern for the Santa (squeeze my cheeks and I'll give you a kiss).

Pam from SC

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Repairing Warped Door Frames

I have glued up 3/4 inch ash door frames and I must have tightened up the clamps to much. Now the doors are warped, they are naturally as it is. Can I spray them with water and press them down to straighten them up? The door size is 14x16.

Maurice

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Suede Damaged From Cleaning

I was trying to remove a butter stain from my suede purse. I used soap and water and now it has lost the suede texture and look. Can I do something to restore it or at least make it look better. Thanks.

ligia

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Bread Machine Sandwich Bread

I just purchased a used bread machine. I've made some very tasty bread so far and love having the machine. What I don't seem to be able to do is make a good sandwich bread. If you have a recipe that makes good sandwich bread, please share with me.

I've tried several recipes where the flavor has been great, but when sliced and made into a sandwich, I can't lift it to my mouth without it somewhat falling apart. It's like it's not substantial enough. What's the secret? Thanks.

Tina from Ashland, OR

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Cooking Roast in a Crock Pot

If you have a roast with a layer of fat on one side should you put the fatty side down or on top if you are cooking it in the crock pot?

Bethany from SC

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Stain On Faux Marble Counter

I have a faux marble sink top in the bathroom. Yesterday I had taken one of those small wax coated Dixie cups figuring I would be safe because it was wax coated and had filled it with some Windex to clean a diamond ring. Well, the dye came off the cup and has now left a mark. I used everything known to man and it is still there and it's making me batty. Any advice would be appreciated!

Kathy from Philadelphia, PA

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Looking For Envirotech

Where can I buy Envirotech?

Dee

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Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

What is the best way to clean stainless steel appliances?

Robin from Petaluma, Ca

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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

Saving Money on School Sports Supplies

Do you have any ideas for saving money on school sports supplies? Here are some tips from the ThriftyFun community.

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Green and Healthy Grass

Question:

I need to know how to make and keep my lawn green.

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