November 27, 2009

Daily Thrifty Tips - November 27, 2009


Vol. 8, Num. 232, November 27, 2009 (Read It Online)

We hope everyone in the US had a wonderful holiday. We have a new feature in today's newsletter. Throughout this month we will feature profiles of the people who work on ThriftyFun. Before we feature current staff we are featuring Susan, the founder of ThriftyFun, who we lost last December.

Please take a momment and give a "thumbs up" to tips and photos that you like in this newsletter. You can rate all of tips, pets, photos and recipes for the latest contest here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/contest.ldml?contest=15781

Thanks for reading,

The ThriftyFun Team

Edit Your Subscriptions: To edit your ThriftyFun subscriptions, click the Update Profile/Email Address link at the bottom of this newsletter.

Today's newsletter contains:

Today's Photos:

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:

China Girl (Domestic Shorthair)

China Girl is a 16 year old Domestic short hair cat. I obtained China Girl 14 years ago as a rescue. Her former owner was moving and unable to take her. China Girl was suppose to be put to sleep the day I got her. I was a last choice because I have kids and China Girl did not like kids. All has worked out well and China Girl allows the kids to love on her.

China Girl likes to sit on the back of the couch and watch what is going on around her. She loves to be petted and purrs so beautifully. We almost lost China Girl a few months back. She was very ill with pneumonia and had lost a lot of weight. With lots of love, I nursed her back to health as I cried inside for fear of her not making it. China Girl is doing well now and I tell her everyday how much I love her.

By Mary from Camden, MI. USA

Contest Contender!

This post is a contest contender! Read it and then Rate it: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down

China Girl (Domestic Shorthair)

Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Bookmark and Share


Skye (Belgian Griffon)

Skye is almost 3 years old. We believe he is a Belgian Griffon. Whilst bringing in a road injured animal to my vet, I needed to put the critter in an isolation kennel. As I was doing so (at ground level), I looked up to see two eyes staring very intensely at me VERY intently!

I asked what was up with this puppy being isolated? The reply was that he was a street dog, very young with mange. He was of black skin with almost no hair and I loved him immediately. No one wanted him, as to their eyes, he was so ugly. Whilst walking him one day, a beat cop said he was the single ugliest dog he had eve seen. Well a month later, he came to my house! 6 months later, our vet hardly recognized him. All hair and bright eyes.

He likes to chew my slippers, what else is new right? Play ball and eat any vegetable in sight. I believe that poor critter had to be injured near my home so that I could find Skye. I know it sounds nuts, but?

By John from Beecher, Illinois

Contest Contender!

This post is a contest contender! Read it and then Rate it: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down

Skye (Belgian Griffon)

Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Bookmark and Share


Dyeing Carpet

I wasn't quite sure how I got these bleached looking spots on my carpet then I realized they came from an acne medication that I had been using. Will someone please tell me how to dye the carpet? The color of the carpet is beige. Thank you.

By Amy from Miami, FL

Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Ginger The Cat

A neighbor that lives across the courtyard from me, but on the second floor, has a cat named Ginger. She is the cutest because she visits everyone and the best is her unique personality!

The exterior of our complex is made of wood and what she does is climb up the side of the building to his apartment balcony on the second floor to get in (he leaves the sliding glass door open just enough so she can get in no matter what time of day or time of year) and then he lets her out the conventional way via the front door so she can explore the great outdoors and come back when she's good and ready.

I took a photo of her a couple of months ago climbing up to his balcony but this one here thrills me even more. This morning she was hanging out in the courtyard and I was able to capture this shot of her dipping her paws in the swimming pool while just chillin' and enjoying the scenery.

By Deeli from Richland, WA

Contest Contender!

This post is a contest contender! Read it and then Rate it: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down

Ginger The Cat

Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Bookmark and Share


In Memory Of Midnight (Newfoundland/Lab Mix)

Midnight passed away when he was 10. He was a Newfoundland/Lab mix. We adopted him from the animal shelter on Valentines Day, 2003 when he was 2 years old. Midnight loved to chase balls and bring them back only to steal them when you tried to grab the ball to throw it again. Chewing on the balls was even more fun. He also loved to swim, go on walks, and just be with his family.

Midnight was an amazing dog. If I could describe him in one word it would be steadfast. He was solid in size, personality and devotion to his family. Every kid wanted to hug him where ever we went. He'd even let the kids climb all over him without complaint when they were young. He'd just huff and roll on his side when he was tired of them. He loved the kids and would "protect" them by standing between them and Grandma when they'd cry because she was leaving. He would be friendly but not let her near them until we said it was OK.

He was smart and learned to do many tricks - his favorite was to shake hands. He also knew that back-off meant take exactly three steps back (handy with such a large dog). He meant so much to us and really filled our lives with love. We were heartbroken when we had to put him to sleep.

By Stephanie from Hillsboro, OR

Contest Contender!

This post is a contest contender! Read it and then Rate it: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down

In Memory Of Midnight (Newfoundland/Lab Mix)

Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Bookmark and Share


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!

Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

A lady was sitting in a fine restaurant one night. While she was waiting for her date, she wanted to make sure everything was perfect. So, as she bends down in her chair to get the mirror from her purse, she accidentally farts quite loudly just as the waiter walks up.

Sitting up straight now, embarrassed and red faced, knowing everyone in the place heard her, she turns to the waiter and demands "Stop That!"

The waiter looks at her dryly and says "Sure lady, which way did you fire it ?"

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

New Requests:

Removing Mildew from Leather

How do you clean mildew off of leather belts and leather boots?

By Linda from McKinney, TX

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Keeping the House Clean

How do I keep my house clean and tidy? I work like a slave every day, still the kids are not helping the matter at all.

By Martina from Jacksonville, FL

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Home Remedies for Removing Cat Urine Odor

I have a pair of suede boots that my cat peed on. I want to know if I can clean them with something to remove the odor? Thanks.

By Carol from Mayfield, KY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


How to Use Banana Peelings as Floor Wax

What are the ingredients and procedures to use banana peelings as a floor wax?

By Gimar from Cagayan de Oro, Philippines

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Refinishing Laminate Cabinets

Is it possible to tint laminate cabinets from lavender to gray? Then I would like to replace the purple counter tops for a more neutral color, as well. I can not afford to replace the cabinets.

By Lyn from Tampa, FL

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Removing Ink From Red Leather

How do you remove blue ink from a red leather settee?

By Lynnl from Dumfires

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Paint for Laminate Countertops

What kind of paint do you use to paint over a old laminate bathroom vanity?

By Dana from Williamstown, NJ

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Cleaning Dirty Car Upholstery

How can I remove stubborn stains on upholstery in my car?

By Jan from DeRidder, LA

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Treating Cat with Ear Mites

Is there a home treatment for ear mites in kittens (11 weeks old)? I recently adopted a kitten and just checked her ears and noticed they are very black with ear wax.

I cleaned them as good as I could, but they still need more cleaning. Is there any kind of home remedy for ear mites?

By Cricket from Parkton, NC

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


What Happens To Discontinued Products At Target?

I am looking for a bedding set from Target from 2 or 3 years ago. It is a cowgirl quilt set really bright a colorful. Bright pinks and greens, orange, and teal with corduroy patches and a outlined pony at the bottom. Help. Please?

By Candy from Valencia, CA

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Cleaning the Bathtub

I just moved into this house. My bathtub is the color brown and has white stains all over it. I have tried every bathroom and tub cleaner out there, they are still there. Anyone?

By Robin from Niagara Falls, NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Removing Water Stain From Car Upholstery

I would like to know how to remove water stains from car seats.

By Deb from Cape Coral, FL

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


1993 Ranger Heater Not Working

I have a 93 Ranger and the blower motor is working, but the heat is not. What could be the problem?

By Josh from Athens, TH

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Repairing Stretched Out Sweater Wrist Bands

Does anyone know how to keep the wrist bands of a sweater from stretching or better yet, how to fix it once they have stretched? Thanks and have a great day.

By Willi from Calgary, AB

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Dog Lonely While Owner at Work

My Jack Russell is very lonely; she's 3 years old. I work for 6 hours a day, any advice?

By jackrusselowner from Ireland

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Fabric Softener Left a Blue Stain

I used a fabric softener in the wash which left a light blue stain on a white knit Polo shirt. Is there a way to get this stain out? Bleach has not worked.
Thanks.

By Tracy from Kansas City, MO

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Cleaning Ceramic Floor Tiles

I just moved into this house. I have ceramic tiles in my kitchen; I need to know if anyone can help me. I've tried everything to clean them including the ceramic floor cleaner. Anything is helpful.

By Robin from Niagara Falls, NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Bissell Carpet Shampooer Isn't Working

I have a Bissell Pro heat carpet shampooer. I have taken it completely apart to clean it and now it won't spray water out. It will suck water up, just won't spray it out. Any ideas as to why? Don't have it in the budget right now to buy a new one. Thanks so much.

By Terri from Central CA Coast

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Removing Dried Paint on Clothing

I need to know how to get dry paint out of clothes.

By Cheryl from Manchester, UK

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Clothing Wetter Than Normal After Washing

My clothes in my washer aren't coming out as dry as they once were. Could the spin cycle slow down. They are taking twice as long to dry in the dryer, so this is the only answer I can come to. Any suggestions?

By Kat

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Determining the Best Price on Toilet Paper

How do you determine the most economical price for toilet paper? Is it by the square feet on a roll, number of sheets on a roll, single or double ply, etc? I am wanting a formula I can use at the store, to determine if I'm getting a "bargain".

By Sharon from Southern IL

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Removing Dry Erase Marker from Car Headliner

I am wondering how to get a marker pen line off the interior roof of a car. It's the standard whiteboard drywipe marker pen. Anyone have any suggestions? Not sure about the fabric, but I think it's the usual interior material.

By Steffan from Ireland

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Caring for Newborn Kittens

My beautiful, but young, cat named Dinah just gave birth to 5 equally beautiful kittens this morning. Dinah was a stray that my boyfriend and I accepted in our home in October, and weren't very surprised to learn of her pregnancy.

Anyway, I know at this point, none of them can see, hear, or smell, so I've been worried about them finding the nipples to feed. Even when I get them to the nipple, they turn away and whine. They have been eating, some more than others.

I guess I'm just wondering if this is normal, and also nervous that if it comes time for me to feed them, I won't know exactly when to do so. Please help. Thank you.

By Sarah from NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Shelf Life of Disposable Diapers

I found a few bags of diapers that we never used. They are about 2-3 years old. I am thinking about selling them on Craigslist or to some friends, but are they still good?

Thanks.

By Mindy

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Air Conditioner on 15 Amp Circuit Dims Lights

We live in a very old apartment, which is not wired for 220. Unfortunately, the Board of Directors of the apartment complex refuses to upgrade to 220. The whole living room and the master bedroom are on one 15-Amp circuit breaker.

Last year, we put in 2 air conditioners. When they "cycle" the lights dim. I later noticed the A/Cs state that each A/C should be on its own 20-Amp circuit breaker. I asked a licensed electrician about this. He told me that, unless the apartment is wired for 220, it's not worth it. Is this true?

By Richard from Bayside, NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Making Your Own Washing Soda

I would like information on making your own washing soda.

By Tammy Jo from KY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Buy Now Pay Later Websites That Ship to Canada

I am looking for "buy now pay later" websites that ship to Canada, and allow Canadians to purchase. Thanks.

By Melissa from Toronto, ON

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Easy Thrifty Cat Box Cleaning

Does anyone have tips on how to clean cat litter boxes easily and thriftily?

By Christine from Buffalo, NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Repairing a Bread Machine

How do I repair a Regal Kitchen Pro model K6725 bread machine? It worked fine for years, but now the spindle that is supposed to turn the spatula won't work. The motor sounds fine when turned on and the spatula can be manually turned with no problem, but won't turn with motor running. Is there a belt in the bottom of the unit that may have broken or come loose?

By Nancy from Maypearl, TX

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Going From Dyed Black Hair to Red

I have dyed my hair jet black and I tried to put peroxide in it to make it lighter so I can dye it red; it didn't work. How do I make it light enough to make the red dye show?

By Nicole from Buffalo, NY

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


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:

ThriftyFun Staff Spotlight: Susan (1948-2008)

Each Friday during the holiday season, we are going to be spotlighting a different staff member to introduce them to the ThriftyFun community. This week, we are starting off with Susan, the late founder of ThriftyFun.com.

Susan grew up in the Seattle area and lived in the Pacific Northwest most of her life. She spent much of her adult life as a single mother, struggling to make ends meet. In the height of the excesses of the 1980's, she was shopping thrift stores and garage sales. The lessons she learned at this time about frugality served her well and she did her best to instill these values with her children.

Susan and her sons started the roots of this website in 1997, with the creation of CouponCentral.com. There was a weekly newsletter, called the Coupon Clipper, with frugal tips sent in by the readers. This later grew into it's own website, ThriftyFun.com in 1999. Over 10 years later, it is more successful than ever, with thousands of members and even more subscriptions to our newsletters.

Susan would spend most of her waking hours each day working on ThriftyFun. She would write articles, edit tips, approve feedback, troubleshoot problems for our readers and generally make sure the site was up and running. Our members have always commented on how pleasant and helpful she was for them. Many considered her a friend, even if only from her emails.

Susan left us unexpectedly last December after a short, debilitating illness. But her legacy is still with us, in this community that she nurtured into what it is today. Her children are all involved in the day to day running of the site as are other family members and close friends. Each time someone shares a tip or photo, or posts a solution to a problem, it is a tribute to Susan and her vision.

Here is a link to Susan's memorial page, announcing her death to our readers. There was an overwhelming outpouring of support and sympathy from the entire community.

ThriftyFun Staff Spotlight: Susan (1948-2008)

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Print | Rate It: Thumbs Up Thumbs Down | Bookmark and Share


Interactive

Coupon Swap!
Swap coupons with other ThriftyFun.com users.

Seed Swap!
Swap seeds with other ThriftyFun.com users.

Feedback

No feedback yet. Click here to post feedback.

Related

Post Feedback

Your thoughts are welcomed and appreciated. Be the first to post feedback!

Feedback:

Image Upload:

Add an image to your post! Click the "Browse" button above and select an image from your hard drive. Please only select gifs or jpegs. If you have any problems, please contact us.

  

facebook like arrowLike ThriftyFun on Facebook

Browse Topics

Over 80,000 tips, recipes, questions & crafts.

Ask a Question

Submit a question to the TF community.

Subscribe to ThriftyFun Newsletters!

Email: