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Scenery: Snow Scene

This is a picture looking off my deck. It was in the morning after a heavy snow before the wind could disturb the new snow. We live on this trout stream back in the woods where it is very peaceful. A good place to retire. This a special picture of nature in quiet and peace.

By Barb from Rothbury, MI

Snow Scene

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Craft: Crocheted Granny Hat

Here is a the crocheted hat I made from a pattern found at: http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2008/03/womans-granny-hat-c.html

I like her patterns as they are simple to use and follow as well as a wide range of ideas. This picture is my daughter who loves the hats I make.

Have a great week.

By Lori from Ephrata, WA

Crocheted Granny Hat

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Craft Project: Crochet School Clown Holder

This cute little vintage clown hangs on the wall and holds a ruler, crayons and pencils. Handy and decorative. The little ones will love him.

Click Here to download the Crochet School Clown Instructions in PDF format.

Craft Project: Crochet School Clown Holder

View This Craft: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf73045032.tip.html

Chocho (Coatimundi)

Chocho is an 8 year old Coatimundi. He was a rescue. Chocho likes to play and eat chocho eats bugs, birds, mice, snakes, various fruits and vegetables, but spiders are their fave! This is a picture of Chocho in one of our trees. They go out to forage for their food everyday. They're a cousin of the Raccoon, but are very social animals and very family oriented.

By Linda from Eustis, FL

Chocho (Coatimundi)

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Daijah (Pit Bull Mix?)

Daijah is a 7 week old Pit Bull Mix (?) that we got 1 and a half weeks ago. She likes to nip me and run around chewing on everything. She is a delight.

By Allie from Rancho Mirage, CA

Daijah (Pit Bull Mix ?)

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Use Masking Tape to Make Seed Tapes

I empty the packet of seed on a plate. I unroll masking tape in front of me. Sticky side up, I dampen my index finger. It helps, to pick up the seeds. I then place two seeds, down on the tape, then two more seeds down on the tape, six inches apart. Add two more seeds down until you run out of seeds. I roll up the tape on a Popsicle stick, or a stick from outside, or an ink pen. I don't use pencil because of the lead inside.

At planting time, I use a stick to help unwind. I plant 6 inches under, loose soil mixed with one part sand 3 parts potting soil. I plant straight, to the garden. I cover if before, last frost. There is no danger of root shock. My plants are always straight. They do well. I store my seeds in a dry plastic zip lock bag, with a paper towel to absorb any moisture. I store all my seeds this way.

Good luck.

By Ellen Lou from Tennessee

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Use Rags Instead of Paper Towels

Keep a rag on your paper towel rack and quit buying paper towels altogether! Use newspaper for washing windows. Use cheap paper napkins for food as needed. You'll be surprised at how often you'll grab that rag to wipe up a spill and you are saving lots of money. Have a bunch on hand and just wash up a load every once in a while.

By Laura from Mason, OH

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Plastic Lids for Microwave Splash Screens

I normally save every plastic bowl that comes my way - empty margarine tubs, takeout soup containers, sour cream bowls, you name it. Lids, too. But invariably, the lids last longer around here, so I end up with, say, six butter lids and only two butter bowls.

When lid storage starts to overflow, I pull out the surplus - but I don't toss 'em. They go in a box on top of the microwave. That way, when I'm nuking something that might spatter, I can grab a lid, poke a few venting holes in it very carefully, and then use them as free 'splash screens'. If the lid gets cruddy, I can toss it or wash it, it's up to me. I'm just happy I don't have to clean tomato sauce spots from the microwave walls and ceiling every other day now!

By Dorrie from Norman, OK

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Use Bleach Water to Control Gnats

Recently our house has been overrun with gnats. I followed all your suggestions, nothing worked. I finally called an exterminator, he couldn't come but he told us to pour scalding water down every drain in our house and follow it up with bleach.

They said we may have to do it several times before we can see it is effective. We used 2 gallons of scalding hot water for each drain and followed up with a quart of bleach for each drain. I wanted to pass this along cause it is really a problem this year.

Source: This information came from an exterminator.

By BJ from Mid Missouri

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Mark the Top of Fitted Sheets

I have a California king size bed. I hate changing the sheets because I can't find the right way to put the fitted sheet on. The fitted sheets look square to me. I have one set of sheets that are striped. Those are easy because I know to put the stripes vertical.

One day it dawned on me to mark one corner of the other fitted sheets so I could place the sheet on correctly the first time. I used a regular ink pen and on the top corner I wrote the word "Top". I think a sharpie would work too because the ink does not wash off you will be able to see it every time you go to put the sheet on.

By Shirley from Henderson, NV

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Reuse Take Out Containers for Starting Seedlings

Anyone every wonder what to do with those hard plastic containers which hold a roasted chicken? I get salads with these hard plastic containers too. I just couldn't see throwing them away, so...
I was watching a gardening show and they were talking about those packs to start seeds for the garden. I plant a small garden, I just couldn't justify the expense. Then I began looking at a chicken container I'd just emptied and was going to toss. Hey here's the same thing only smaller!

Using these containers I can stagger my plantings and label each mini seed starters. I also am using egg cartons, cutting a dozen egg carton in half is just right and will sit on the raised part of the bottom. so if/when I over water, the pots don't sit in water. When planting, I just slit the carton and put it in, no transplant shock either. So now, my produce won't be ripening all at the same time and my growing season will be extended. I look forward to seeing these seeds grow.

And hey, if you have kids, let them do this and watch their interest in eating their produce. (smile)

Source: My own idea, unless you count inspiration.

By Dee from Salem, OR

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Unique Appetizer "Crackers"

I was looking for a unique idea for appetizers for my upcoming wedding reception. I wanted to make the crackers for my crackers/cheese display. I bought a loaf of "Wonder Bread" and decided to experiment a bit. I rolled out a slice of wonder bread, very thin. I then buttered it and sprinkled garlic salt on it. I cut out heart shapes with my cookie cutter and placed them on a non-stick pan. I baked them in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 275 degrees F.

They came out PERFECT. Little golden-colored, heart-shaped crackers! They will make a great addition to my appetizer tray, especially since you can create the "crackers" in any design you want with the cookie cutters. My daughter and I are going to try using cinnamon sugar on the next batch and see if they work as well- then we'll have homemade crackers and cookies!

NOTE: 1 loaf of bread makes about 52 crackers (2 per slice).

By Barbara from Atlantic Beach, Florida

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Au Jus Burgers

Wanna spice up those burgers while not wanting buns? I had a pack of Krogers brand au jus. I fried the burgers until almost done. In a separate pan, I sauteed onions and mushrooms, then drained the burgers, and added the sauteed shrooms and onions.

In a sauce pan I mixed the au jus with water but used just half the amount of water as I wanted a thicker sauce. Then poured the sauce over the burgers, let them finish cooking and whammy.

My family loved this recipe, along with mashed potatoes, a little fruit and greens on the side. It made a delicious meal and no one even asked for a hamburger bun.

By Maryjo from Salem, WV

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Bag Your Own Groceries to Save Time at Home

I bag my own groceries. I put all the cold stuff together. Canned goods together. Bananas and fruit together, toothpaste and toilet paper together and so on. It's easier to put the groceries away when you get home. You use less bags. You can also bring your own bags. Some stores give credit for using returned grocery bags.

It's so frustrating getting home and dealing with all those nasty plastic bags that don't compost. I also use the plastic bags for trash bags. If you can't bag your own groceries put your items up on the counter in the order you would like them bagged and tell the clerk what you want done and why. They never seem to mind.

Source: I've been bagging my own groceries for years.

By Christine from Dover, DE

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Heat Diffusers to Prevent Burning When Cooking

Someone on ThriftyFun was talking about their pots boiling over too much or food sticking and it was suggested to try the metal stars. My hubby told me to call this hardware store mainly because they sell everything. They do have the stars, however, they have two other things that go over the burner. They are called heat diffusers. One cost $4 because it had a wooden handle and another cost $5 with a removable handle.

I asked the difference between the stars and the diffusers and the lady said that the stars become thin over time because of the heat. Also, they get hot. What if you forgot that and decided to pick it up? You could burn yourself. I haven't gotten them yet but plan too because I would rather spend just a bit more money and save my fingers. I also have a small child who might get curious. Just thought I would suggest it to you.

By Barbara from Shoemakersville, PA

Editor's Note: Here is the post that Barbara is referencing:

Prevent Food from Sticking

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

An inter-church gathering was well attended when someone suddenly cried "FIRE!"

The Methodists gathered in a corner to pray.

The Baptists hollered "Everyone in the water !"

The Lutherans nailed a paper to the door declaring fire was evil.

The Episcopalians formed a procession and marched out in an orderly manner.

The Unitarians concluded the fire had as much right to be there as anyone.

The Christian Scientists agreed there really wasn't a fire.

The 7th Day Adventists said it was "the vengeance of an angry God."

The Presbyterians formed a committee to study the problem.

The Catholics passed the plate to cover the damages.

The janitor grabbed a fire extinguisher and put the fire out.

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

Cat Urine Odor on Clothing

My new cat wet all over some clothes waiting to be put in the washing machine. What is the best way to take out cat urine odor from clothing?

Donna from Middletown, NY

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Neighbor Throws Things Into My Yard

I have a neighbor who throws socks into my yard and my puppy eats them. I put up a larger fence but it didn't stop. I called the police but that didn't help. Please help!

Joe

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Punto Card Game

Does anyone know where I can find a card game by the name of Punto? It was once sold at the Museum Store which is no longer in business.

Marlene from Billerica MA

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Buying Bulk Paraffin Wax

Where can I get paraffin wax in bulk for cheap? Does anyone have a recipe for homemade fire logs using paraffin wax and sawdust?

Sally from Gallatin Gateway, MT

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Side Dishes for Salmon Balls

What would you serve with the salmon balls recipe I found on this site?

Bonnie from Niagara Falls

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Irish Cream Souffle Recipe

Does anyone out there have a recipe for irish cream souffle? Thanks.

Bonnie from Niagara Falls

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Clear Iodine

Where can I find clear iodine? I have looked in just about every store in our town and no one has it.

Lynn from Big Stone Gap, VA

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Making a Cupcake Tree

How do I make a cupcake tree?

Denise from Chicago, IL

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Tub Stopper Lever Won't Go Down

I can't get the stopper lever on my bathtub to go down to let the water out. It is stuck upwards and needs to go down. Does anyone know how to fix?

Lori from Indianapolis, IN

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Donating Unused Medication

I would like the name of the organization that you can send unused or leftover good medicine. They send in overseas to people who need them. Hope somebody can help me.

Staza from Granite Falls

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Removing Pledge Floor Shine from Laminate Floor

I used Pledge Future Floor Shine on my laminated wood floor. How can I get it off?

Arlene from Balto, MD

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Having a Septic Tank Pumped

What does it cost to get a septic tank pumped out?

Donald from Mount Sterling, OH

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Puppy Housebreaking 101

I got a new puppy over the weekend. I love it so much but, there are problems. My family and I are not able to train it because it goes outside and pees but then he comes back inside and pees. What should I do? I have tried hitting him, not hard, and telling him no. But I feel so bad. It is a 6 week old boxer and I need help or he might have to go to the animal shelter. I doubt that will happen. Please help me!

Breanna from Zanesville, OH

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Planning a Small Sweet 16 Birthday

I am planning my daughter's Sweet Sixteen and trying to come up with some themes. Does anyone have any ideas?

Millie from Gary, IN

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Nail Polish Stains on Clothing

My brother just washed and dried all my children's laundry with nail polish. It is all over everything. How can I quickly get this out? Is there something I can pour into the washer?

Janelle from Laurel, MD

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Where Can I Buy Essential Oils?

Where can I buy Tide brand essential oil?

Christi

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Anti-Wrinkle Pillow

Is there a pillow that helps with wrinkles?

Michelle15958 from UK Yorkshire

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Surprise Anniversary Party

My parents' 50th is this summer. Is it bad to have a surprise party for them and should we have it on their actual anniversary?

Christine

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Dog With Smelly Ears

How can I clean my dog's stinky ears?

lorig41 from Tucson, AZ

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Nail Polish on a Wood Table

I have nail polish on my table that is finished with clear coat.

Connie from Beaconsfield, IA

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Severe Back Pain

I've been bed ridden since mid January because of intense lower back pain which radiates down my left leg. My foot is also numb because of sciatic nerve pain. I can't sit, stand or even drive my car without horrible pain. I have no health insurance and can't work because of this pain.

I borrowed money from family to go to the Chiropractor and an Osteopath Doctor. The X-rays didn't really show much so the doctor wants to do an MRI and send me to physical therapy. I can't afford to pay for an MRI so I am now trying to get Medicaid Health Insurance for only 3 months so I can hopefully diagnose this and live a normal life again.

The only time my pain goes away is if I lay down flat on my back. The doctor says it's most likely a disk problem. All I did was reach across my car's seat, then I felt my back give out (2 months ago). I am an otherwise healthy 54 year old woman and am not overweight.

If you or a loved one has had lower back or disc pain, can you help me with web sites or other information. I don't want surgery, but I can't keep laying in bed. I will exhaust all options and will do anything to live normally and pain-free again! Thank You!

Cyinda from Seattle

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Ink Stains On Jeans

My husband works in a factory that prints books. When he comes home, his jeans are full of ink stains. I wash all the jeans in one load. Is there anything I can put in the washer to remove the stains?

Sandy from Elkton, VA

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Replacement Tray For Gott 50 Qt Cooler

I'm looking for the tray that fits inside a Gott 50 quart cooler. It is model #1950, tray #719. Can anyone help? Thanks!

Mark from Puyallup, WA

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Getting Rid of Whiteheads

My daughter (35 yrs old) has started getting "whiteheads" on her face. Some are under the skin but one is white and is close under her eye. Any suggestions on what to use to get rid of these pesky things?

cybergrannie from Florida

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Outlet Stopped Working

Out of nowhere, the one outlet in the bedroom stopped working. The TV uses this outlet. All the other outlets in the room are okay. I checked the circuit breaker box, and none appear to be tripped. Just in case I flipped all of them to no avail. What could have happened, and what should we do? Thanks!

Susan

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Removing WD40 From Dried Clothing

I read somewhere that you can use WD40 to get melted chap stick out of clothes, but now I have WD40 stains on my work clothes. Any idea how to get the WD40 out now? Help!

Molly from Minnesota

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Laundry Soap Recipe

I'm looking for a laundry soap recipe.

Becky from Kit, ON

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Making Oil for Diffuser Lamps

Does anyone know how to make refills for diffusers?

Barb from Fairview, MI

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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

Sprouting Vegetables in Water

I was talking with a fellow shopper in the supermarket today and she mentioned something about sticking the end of a celery bunch in water to sprout it. This got me to thinking about my grandparent's kitchen, they had things sprouting all over the place. I was wondering which veggies you can do this with and how and when to plant them in soil.

Hardiness Zone: 6b

DeeDee from Springfield, MO

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Daily Thrifty Tips - March 10, 2009

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