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Hello,
We still haven't come up with a topic for Friday's TF News. If we don't think of anything before Friday we will just make it a recipe issue, we are a bit behind on publishing recipes right now. If anyone has a topic idea, feel free to suggest it. For those unfamilar with the TF News, it is our weekly newsletter that addresses a different topic in each issue. Our last issue was about Quilting, which turned out great, you can read it online here:
Quilting Tips:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf748325.tip.html
Thanks for reading,
Susan
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Today's newsletter contains:
Today's Photo Tips:
Today's Tips:
New Requests:
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Today's Photo Contest Entries
Recipe for Chili - Cook While You Work
The only ingredient not pictured is green onion. The medium hot salsa gave it a nice flavor. I like dumping the ingredients in the crock pot before heading to work, setting the heat to low, adding chopped Kielbasa and onion when I get home, giving it another hour or so to heat, then enjoying my "home made" chili with crackers and a beer.
By Dineen
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Miko (German Shephard/Husky) Dog with 9 Lives
Hi All,
This is my dog Miko and you heard of a cat with 9 lives I believe she also has 9 lives.
We got her when she was 6 months old we have had a lot of ups and downs. About 4 of years ago she was hit on a busy road and her bandana got stuck on the ladies licence plate and she was dragged for a block, took her to the vet, she had some road rash, and shock, but other then that she was very lucky.
Then a couple years ago we were dogsitting for my mother and father-in-law and she just loves it out there, all kinds of fields just to run run run....but that weekend I think she ran a little to far and it started to storm, I think she lost her scent back, she was gone for a long time, we went everywhere looking for her but had no luck, 3 days went by and I was crushed, searching for her everyday I thought we had lost her, then the very next day she was on there porch, very tired and sore but as good as new.
Not long after that she seemed to get sick, she was starting to take seizures and doubled in her weight and just wanted to sleep all the time and seem to be in pain.
We took her to the vet and they put her on a medication for her seizures, well they had stopped but nothing else had changed, I went on a website similar to this one and they told me to get her tested for a thyroid, so I did and Miko also had a over active thyroid which also is on medication for now, but today she is back to herself, lot's of energy, back to a good weight, and happy as can be.
I'm so grateful for sites like this, I just thought I would share my story of my amazing German Shepard/husky named Miko.
Thanks Penny from Ontario
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Cut 2 heart shaped designs from a desired fabric. You can use white satin or if you want a little color showing, use colored fabric and cut a lace overlay so that the color shows through the lace. I cut mine about 8 inches around.
Sew the fabric pieces together, leaving a small hole in which to insert the stuffing. Stuff and sew the small hold close by hand. To decorate, use pre gathered lace and sew it around the edges of the pillow. Decorate the top using a small satin bow with tails long enough to hang over the sides. You may want to add a couple of extra tails and tie the ends with LOVE KNOTS.
Decorate with 2-3 small flowers and babys breath. These are simple to make and a lot less expensive than store bought.
By Sharon,Ky
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Submit a tip with a photo or a pet description with a photo and you could win a Digital Camera! You can enter the photo contest here:
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Today's Tips
To save money on furnishings, get furniture kits instead of furniture that is already built. Building from a kit comes out just as well as ready built. It just requires a little effort and generally it is not that hard to follow instructions. Build it yourself. A little elbow grease can save a ton of cash.
By Jenssequa
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If you have a well made cook book that is no longer practical for your lifestyle, don't throw it away, use it for a scrap book for recipes, your favorite tips for living cheaper (those you like clipping from the paper). Tape the articles to the pages or use recipe cards that you have written down your favorite recipes, tips etc. Use the tabs to label your sections.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Don't you wish you had a housekeeper? It's not financially impossible. I used to be in the business before I retired. My most frugal client hired me to come in once a week to simply vacuum the carpets and clean the bathrooms, that's it. It made her life so much easier because those are the two chores that take the most time, but it only took me two hours. This was great for both of us, because it only cost her $20 for two hours, and I still had time to do an extra job that day.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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About Volunteering - Find Something You Enjoy
Volunteering isn't so bad after all. Did you know that you can choose what you like to do the best? Check with your Chamber of Commerce, Hospital, the local police department, School including the local college. Pick something you would enjoy. Someone out there needs your help, but you should pick something you enjoy and don't feel guilty about it. It could lead to a secure job you never dreamed you could land.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Storing items under your bed doesn't require those expensive boxes for storage. Use the large garbage bags, use your vacuum cleaner to suck out the air. Works like a charm for Christmas decorations, and purses, winter clothes or whatever you like.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Materials:
1 - Put lint and water in a large saucepan. Stir to dampen all of the lint.
2 - Add flour and stir to prevent lumps.
3 - Add oil of cloves.
4 - Cook over low heat while stirring constantly, until mixture holds together and forms peaks.
5 - Pour out and cool on several thickness of newspaper.
Makes about 8 cups of modeling clay. You may shape over objects or press into a mold or use the same as you would use paper-maché pulp. It takes 3 to 5 days to dry to a very hard surface.
When wet, it is easily worked. Store unused portion in an airtight container. It will keep for several days.
By Kathleen Jarman
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If your water tastes a little yucky, nobody really wants to drink it. No need to buy water. Get out your largest pot, bring your water to a boil on high heat, then turn it down and continue to boil for about 35 minutes. It tastes just like bottled water and you won't destroy the minerals. It saves so much money on filters and bottled water.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Here are some ideas to help you deal with spam. Post your ideas.
Get Spam Advice From Your ISP
For a free spam remover, ask your ISP (internet service provider) to suggest one. They know the best ones that are free. If you love it, you can buy it, but it's usually not necessary. Most ISP's are very helpful with little tips that make your relationship with your computer much smoother. If nothing works, buy those sponge bricks, and you know what to do from there.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Keeping Spiders Out Of Your Home
Tips to help you keep spiders out of your home. Post your ideas.
Keeping Spiders Down
To keep the spiders down in the house, start by spraying the outside of the house every two weeks with your hose. Use the best spray nozzle you have. Spray every nook and cranny. You'll be surprised how many spider nests you didn't know were there.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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Tips for baking cakes. Post your ideas.
Cake Mix Tip
With every box cake I add a heaping spoonful of mayo instead of one egg to give the cake more moisture! It makes the cake better!
By Ellen
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Don't Dry Your Favorite Outfit in the Dryer
If you really love that new washable outfit, or any clothing that doesn't require a dryer, don't use the dryer. The dryer is what will wear out your clothes faster than wearing them. Always check for spots than need pre-treatment, and don't use the dryer.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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By testing your soil in your lawn every 3-4 years, you can keep on track if your lawn needs to have nitrogen added or not. Nitrogen is the key nutrient needed for a thick, green lawn.
By Terri H.
Editor's Note: Does anyone know how to test your soil? If you have any ideas, please post them at the url below.
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Tips to help you sell your home. Post your ideas.
When trying to sell your home and property, make it as appealing to the buyer as possible. My brother in law and his wife were trying to sell their home and couldn't. The very day, they bought colorful flowers to plant in the front yard, the house got sold!
By Terri H.
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Tips for cleaning paved driveways. Post your ideas.
Have you gotten motor oils and/or other fluids spilled in your paved driveways? Use a scrub brush, liquid dish soap in water to remove them.
By Terri H.
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Tips for coloring your hair, or having your hair colored. Post your ideas.
Ring of Color After Going to the Salon
When coming home from the salon, if you still have that bad ring of color on your forehead, try facial toner or ashes!
By Sandy
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Tips and strategies for keeping your house clean. Post your ideas.
Keeping the House Clean
The easiest and only way to really keep the house clean is to FIRST pick up the clutter and put it in it's place. You can't get to the dust unless you can reach it. Soooo,
A. Tidy up first
B. Dust with a vacuum as much as you can if there is someone sensitive lungs.
C. Do cob webs with a duster or a broom
D. Make the bathroom and the kitchen top priorities. Use cleaners that are meant for the kind of cleaning your doing. A spray bottle with a few teaspoons of bleach will kill the germs on counter tops.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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If you drink a lot of coffee, you probably have a lot of coffee grounds. Here are some uses for those coffee grounds. Post your ideas.
Fridge Deodorizer
Used coffee grounds are good as fridge deodorizers. Just place in an unopened container (like an old cottage cheese tub) and place in back of fridge. Once they are all dried out, dump into your compost.
By Marvel
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Tips for removing blood stains from clothing and other fabric. Post your ideas.
Getting blood out of clothing, even if it's dried requires hydrogen peroxide. Soak for as long as it takes. It works in a few minutes. A cold water soak can work, too. You may even try that first. But the hydrogen peroxide will take ALL the blood out even if it is dried on.
By Ardis Ilene Barnes
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I have a recipe that is a fast great meal. It is called five decker meal. You great a big 2 quart pot. ON the bottom of the pot you layer good quality bacon, then on the next layer you put a layer of seasoned meatballs, the next layer you put cut up and peeled potatoes, and then a layer of cut up onions. Cut up like the onion rings, and a layer of rings of bell pepper. Last layer is a layer of french style green beans. You put a lid on the pot, cook on low for one hour, and then when the potatoes are done--the meal is done. It is delicious and easy.
By Danielle
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Tips for Shipping Baked Goods Overseas
No butter, margarine, peanut butter or nuts should be used. These fats go rancid too fast in high heat. Butter flavored shortening however can be used.
No brown sugar,corn sugar,honey or molasses should be used. The baked goods with these products will be too soft and possibly become moldy. Only white table sugar should be used.
Chocolate and butterscotch can be used in baked goods. Once chocolate has been baked into the product and has the chance to take up moisture from the batter, the chocolate should stay firm.
Bar cookies and brownies are the best bet for safe packing and are quickest for baking large quantities.
Baked goods should be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil which provides the best barrier against humidity.
Pack goods in sturdy boxes and surround them with foam packing such as styrofoam peanuts. I also use my food saver after wrapping them in foil to keep the air out.
By imaqt1962
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Velcro a placemat behind your trash can for easy clean up when your kids miss the basket.
By ratattatat1
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Ingredients:
Directions:
Cream the sugar and cream cheese together. Add the rest of the ingredients.. Put in 8x11 inch pan and freeze. Set out 1 hour before serving.
By Robin
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Ingredients:
Directions:
Use 9x13 inch pan. Break mincemeat into small pieces and cover with 1 cup water. Place over medium heat. Boil 1 minute; cool. Prepare gelatin, using 3 cup water. When gelatin is slightly thickened, add mincemeat mixture and nuts and celery. Return to refrigerator until set. Serves 12-15
By Robin
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Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients:
Directions:
Combine sugars, pumpkin, oil, and eggs. Beat until well blended. Sift together flour, soda, and spices; add and mix well. Stir in raisins, nuts, and water. Spoon into well oiled 9x5x3 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 65-75 minutes. Turn out on rack to cool thoroughly. Frost if desired. Makes 2 loves when using 2 small loaf pans.
By Robin
Pumpkin Bread II
Ingredients:
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift together 1st six ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin, sugar, milk and eggs. Add dry ingredients and butter, mixing until just moistened. Stir in nuts. Spoon into well greased 9"x 5" loaf pan. Bake for 65 minutes or until bread tests done. Cool 10 minutes before removing from baking pan. Makes 1 loaf. (to make 2 loaves use 1 lb. of canned pumpkin and double rest of ingredients.
By Terri
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Peanut Brittle and Pumpkin Parfaits
Ingredients:
Directions:
In a saucepan, combine pudding mix, sugar and spices. Add milk, bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; mix in pumpkin. Cover and chill. Spoon into 4 parfait cups or all tall, narrow glasses, alternating with Cool Whip and peanut brittle. Serves: 4
By Terri
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Ingredients:
Directions:
In a saucepan, combine pudding mix, sugar and spices. Add milk; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add pumpkin and mix well. Chill, placing plastic wrap or waxed paper over the surface of pudding. Serve pudding topped with whipped cream or Cool Whip. Garnish as you please. Serves: 4
By Terri
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Ingredients:
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, cm 1/2 cup margarine, 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 tsp. vanilla. Add 1 cup flour; mix well. Press dough into bottom of 13"x 9" baking dish. Bake for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees and removed baking dish with crust. Combine 1/3 cup flour, baking powder and salt; mix well. Combine eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin and 1/2 tsp. vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients and nuts. Spread over partially baked crust. Combine remaining 1 cup flour and 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Cut in 1/4 cup margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over pumpkin layer. Continue baking 25 to 30 minutes. Cool completely. Cut into bars or squares. Yields: 2 dozen 1 1/2" squares.
By Terri
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Ingredients:
Directions:
In a large heavy saucepan, combine every ingredient, Except nuts; mix well. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, about every 15 to 20 minutes. Candy is done when it becomes very thick and leaves the side of the pan, forming a ball in the center when stirred. Turn mixture onto a buttered baking sheet; cover loosely with foil or plastic wrap. Cool completely. Lightly butter hands and shape candy into balls; roll in chopped nuts. Top each with a walnut or candied cherry half, if desired. Cover and store in refrigerator. Yields about 2 1/2 dozen candies.
For a crunchier candy, stir in 1 cup crushed granola into cooked candy before cooling and shaping.
By Terri
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Tip Contest
Submit a tip and you could win:
New Contest Prize! Now a 2 $25.00 Gift Cards
In our contest we are giving away two $25.00 Gift Cards (we will
select to winners at random) at one of the following stores: Home
Depot, Jo-Ann's Crafts or Amazon.com. If you are the winner, you
get to choose which gift card! This contest ends on May 31st,
2005.
Syndication Spotlight:
Here are some publishers that have chosen to publish our tips this week!
Dear Webby's Humor Letter
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New Requests:
Dog with Chronic Ear Infection
I have a 12 year old boxer who is healthy except for chronic ear infections. It is an inner ear infection, and she has been to the vet countless times. She is on Zenquin 10 days a month, and off 20. She is also on Remedyl (pain medication) and now takes Antihistamines twice daily. Her eardrums have ruptured more than once.
As of the last month she has a terrible balance problem and I have to help her (by holding on to her harness) up or down any stairs, and sometimes when she first tries to get up. As a rule, after she is up for a few minutes, it is better. She is miserable some days and just hangs her head.
It does not seem anything the vet does helps much, and i really have no idea what to do. I have tried in the last few days putting a drop of alcohol in each ear. I have also been making all her food from scratch to possibly alleviate the problem if it is from canned dog food. If anyone has any ideas I am all ears.
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Keeping Wasps Away From Your Home
Hello,
Can anyone help? I have a friend who is absolutely terrified of Wasps. I mean - PETRIFIED. She will close all windows in summer- just in case, she won't go out either until the colder months. This phobia is practically disabling this poor lady's life.
Does anyone have any suggestions to at least keep them away from her home? (This lady lives in a small bungalow on the edge of a small wood.)
Thank you in advance if you post a response :D
Monique x
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What to moles feast on for their food. Not that I want to keep them in my garden... but I'd like them to stop. I do not have any trees just those fragerant gardenias, jasmine, and azaleas.
Moled Jean
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Ingredients:
Directions:
In a large heavy saucepan, combine every ingredient, Except nuts; mix well. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, about every 15 to 20 minutes. Candy is done when it becomes very thick and leaves the side of the pan, forming a ball in the center when stirred. Turn mixture onto a buttered baking sheet; cover loosely with foil or plastic wrap. Cool completely. Lightly butter hands and shape candy into balls; roll in chopped nuts. Top each with a walnut or candied cherry half, if desired. Cover and store in refrigerator. Yields about 2 1/2 dozen candies.
For a crunchier candy, stir in 1 cup crushed granola into cooked candy before cooling and shaping.
By Terri
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I bought 30 white tablecloths for my daughter's wedding. Now that the event is over, I would like to store the tablecloths for later (she has a twin sister). The tablecloths have some barbeque sauce stains and stains from red candles. How can I remove these stains?
Vickie from Ok.
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I bought a piece of material at WalMart that has the 23rd Psalm on it. The piece measures 33" wide by 42" long. I want to make a wall hanging out of it but I am not sure how. What I would really like to do is to stretch it across and tack it to the frame so it is tight and the words and the picture stand out. I know that if I could do this it would make a beautiful, but inexpensive wall hanging. Has anybody out there ever done this? Would you share your method with me?
Thank you.
Louise from FL
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I am having a luau party, but the only problem with it is that it is scheduled to rain on the day that i am going to have it which is Friday! And i need some ideas to have an indoor party! I have never had a real party in my life and this party means so much to me because it will be my first. Please respond back quickly!
Ashley From Texas
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Getting Rid Of Wet Carpet Smell
The church I clean had a toilet overflow on Sunday night in the basement restroom. It was discovered Monday morning with about 2 inches of water standing in the carpeted floor. A wet vac has gotten the water up and I ran a fan on it but what is left is a WET CARPET smell! Does ANYONE know of a product that will help? I am desperate.
Sharon,Ky
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I have a 6 1/2 month old pit bull (male) and a 3 year old German Shepherd (female). The problem is that whenever she (the Shepherd) comes around us the pit snarls and growls and they begin to fight! At first we thought it was the bones we were giving him, because she would come around and do the do the same thing. But now I don't know if it's jealousy, trying to be dominate or what!
Please, if you have any experience with pits or with the same problem and have pointers or advice what to do, please let me know. Other than that, he's a really good dog.
Mike
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I am turning 13 soon, and i want to have an arabian nights b-day party. My mom doesn't want anything too expesive, but i want ideas for decorations, and ideas for activities. Someone please help me.
Sophie from Maryland
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How to Make Your Own Soap Favors for Weddings and Baby Showers
By Criss White
Want to make soap as a gift for your party guests? Here are some simple tips for making soap gifts and favors:
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