Daily Thrifty Tips - August 1, 2007

I hope everyone is having a great week. This Friday's Saving Money on Newsletter is about Saving Money on Packed Lunches. Do you have any tip to share? Submit them here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf353101.tip.html

Thanks for reading,

Susan

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Crafting for Fun and Money!

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Giant Zucchini

I just wanted to show everyone the giant zucchini I grew this year. This is the first year I have grown them and this is a whopper. It is 14 1/2 inches long. I'm sure it probably would have gotten bigger but my dear husband pulled it off first.

By Sandy from Bluff City, TN

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Egg On His Face But He's Happy

Gregory da Silva, A Symbol of African Unity

Who is that Guy with all the Eggs on his head that you see at all the bestest Festivals in South Africa? His name is Gregory da Silva - An Artist Comedian, Storyteller, dancer from Benin West Africa. Gregory da Silva ( Egg Man ) was born in Benin West Africa, Voodoo Country. He speaks French and English and is staying in Cape Town South Africa. Gregory da Silva has appeared at many Festivals in Africa and is presently staying in Cape Town South Africa.

"Everything must be life,
everything must shine, and be positive"

By Gregory da Silva - Eggman from Cape Town South Africa

http://www.eggman.blog.com

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Woodpecker

This little woodpecker lives in our tree that sits in our front yard. He can sure make a racket sometimes, but isn't he cute?

By Robin from Washington, IA

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Freddie (Siberian Hamster)

Freddie is a 1 1/2 year old Siberian Hamster. We adopted Freddie from the Raleigh Rodent Rescue organization last summer (2006).

Freddie LOVES some treats, and he also loves being held and just hanging out in his hamster cage. He loves cleaning himself in his little bathtub using hamster litter pellets as his bath! It's very funny! He also loves playing in a tissue box.

Freddie is one of the tamest hamsters we have ever had! He is very sweet and loves just sitting in our hand. We hope he will have a VERY long hamster life. He's the best!

By Carrie from Stantonsburg, NC

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Use Nail Trimmers For Candle Wick Trimming

A tip for anyone who is an avid candle burner. An easy way to trim your wick before lighting your candle is to use nail clippers. I found they reach perfectly into jar candles, and makes them burn more evenly.

By Caroline from Ocean County N.J.

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Share Your Gardening Abundance

Yesterday, while at the church helping with Vacation Bible School, a fellow church pal made a surprise visit and brought in several bags of produce from her garden to share. Lots were able to benefit off her over abundance and generosity of her savvy gardening skills. A nice and so welcomed gesture!

By Terri from NV

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Grocery Shop At Dollar Stores First

Shop at your local .99 Cent stores or Dollar stores first before your regular grocery stores. Sometimes you can find items like canned crabmeat at the dollar store, where as in the regular grocery store it might have a costly price tag of $6.00 a can! Plan your weekly shopping trip, keep a list while shopping. Know what stores you can get the best prices at.

By Terri H. from NV

Editor's Note: There is a massive recall of Castleberry canned products due to Botulism, which can be deadly. Some of the smaller stores, including Dollar stores, have been found to still have these products on their shelves. Here is the recall article.

• FDA Expands Its Nationwide Warning About the Risk of Botulism Poisoning From Certain Castleberry's Food Products and Dog Food

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School Bus Safety

More students are killed or injured getting on and off a school bus than while they're inside the bus. Make sure your students know how to get on and off the bus safely. Here's the general procedure:

• There is a 10-foot danger zone around the bus where children are especially vulnerable.
• Before the students get off at their stop, the driver will call them to the front of the bus. She will tell the students who are not crossing the street after unloading to go directly to their house and not to return to the bus. The students who are crossing the street after unloading must walk several feet forward to stand by the bus crossing gate and then look to the driver. When she sees that it is safe for them to cross the street, she will wave them across. If she sees any sudden danger, she will honk her horn and that means they must stop immediately and look to her for instruction. The driver will count the students as they exit the bus, and then count them again when they are outside and when crossing the street. When they are all safe, the bus driver will then check traffic and drive away.
• Loading is the reverse. The bus will stop about 10 feet from them. They will wait for the driver to wave them forward to the bus, and then they enter the bus single file. She will count them when they are standing outside and then again as they file in. They should sit in a seat and keep their belongings out of the aisles, securing them so they do not fly around in case of an accident.
• At a railroad crossing, the driver will tell the students to be quiet so she can check for approaching trains.
• In case of an accident, 2 older students will be trained to help evacuate the bus and help the driver and the other students.

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Save Up School Supplies Through The Years

When each of my grandchildren were born, I started a tub where I purchase school supplies for them every year. I wait until school starts and Walmart and the other stores discount everything and I stock up. If I see something at a thrift store, I buy it: like rulers, pencils, folders, book covers, etc. When the child starts kindergarten, then I give it to the parents as a gift. It saves them tons of money and it's a great starter gift. I usually get a backpack to put stuff in for each child to present to them. I know it's not an immediate solution but if you're still having babies, do it now! Even pencils which were 1 penny when I was little are crazy to buy! Most items stay fresh, even glue, over time if not opened and kept in a cool even temperature place! The kids love it and the parents thank me over and over!

By Lynne from Wisconsin

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Ziplock Zip 'n Steam For Microwave Cooking

There's been discussion on this board (and other boards) regarding the unsafe practice of boiling and/or microwaving in Ziploc bags.

Ziploc has come out with a product called Zip 'n Steam for cooking in the microwave:

• http://www.ziploc.com/?p=b13

By Maryeileen from Brooklyn, OH

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The Gift Of Tea

One of the best gifts we ever received from a friend was a huge bag of individually wrapped name brand teabags (all different varieties and flavors). It was from a coworker, whose sister worked at a brand name tea factory and got factory discounts. With drinking tea everyday, that huge bag kept us supplied in tea for 2-3 years!

By Terri H. from NV

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Use Sample Sizes For Traveling

Now that summer vacation is here, it's a good time to break out your collection of shampoo/lotion and other personal care samples to take with you on your trips. So much easier to pack! Think about putting together a collection as a "Bon Voyage" gift for your friends who don't think of stocking up. Believe it or not, you can pay a lot for packages of those sample sizes at a travel store!)

By pamphyila from Los Angeles

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Cleaning Tip For Before Your Shower

To keep your shower sparkling clean, keep a spray bottle of vinegar on the tub rim. 15 minutes before you take a shower, spray down the tub, showerhead, and shower curtain liner, then before you shower, use a scrubbie and any brand cheap powdered detergent to scrub down surfaces (soap and detergent destroy each other). Keep an old toothbrush handy for small spaces, and you are done! We have horrible hard water, rusty and black mildew here, and it conquers all.

By Lou from Pasadena, TX

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Permanent Marker Stain on Carpet

My granddaughter got dark blue magic marker on my carpet tracing around a sheet of paper. I took Purell hand sanitizer and rubbed on the marks and took a rag and the blue marker came up very easily off my light green carpet.

By Karen from Whiteville, NC

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How can I clean a cat?

Could someone please advise me how to clean my cat? I adopted Beffie some time ago from a shelter. The hair on his back is very dirty and hard, but there is no way I will be able to bath him, as he HATES being held. Could I dust him with baby powder/Maizena and then brush him?

Thank you!

Kind regards,
Carol from Republic of South Africa

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How do you upholster the back of dining room chair?

How do you upholster the back of dining room chair?

Linda from Evansville, IN

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California Beauty Pageants

Where can I find beauty pageants in California for my two year old son?

Domonique from Oceanside, CA

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Couch Cushions Keep Moving

I have a couch that has six cushions, 3 for the back and 3 for the seat. Every time you sit they move! How can I secure them?

Sheri from Harrisburg, PA

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Removing Ceramic Wall Tiles

How do I remove old ceramic wall tiles in my kitchen? They are chipped and some are cracked. Also, how do I treat the wall when they have come off? So I have to plaster the wall?

Susan from Durban, South Africa

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Dull Hardwood Floors

I have hardwood floors which I have washed for 3 years with Murphy's oil soap. Now my floors are dull. So I just used vinegar and water and now they are sticky and dull. How do I fix this?

Annie from Detroit

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Cleaning Wired Glass On A China Cabinet

How would you clean the glass on a china cabinet that is crisscrossed with wire? Is there a way to remove the wire?

Marie from FL

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Ironed Polyester Residue On White Shirt

The iron setting was too hot when it was placed on a pair of polyester gym pants. The iron, of course, melted a little bit of the pants and left some of the polyester on the iron. When my daughter used the iron on a white shirt, what was left of the black residue melted on to the shirt. How do we get that off?

Rachel from KY

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Blue Rainbow Tea Ideas

I'm looking for blue rainbow tea ideas.

Dorothy

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How Do I Keep Dish Cloths Looking New?

How can I keep my dish cloths that I use for drying dishes looking as great as they were when I first bought them? After I use them a few times and wash them in the machine. They come out smelling and looking like rags.

Roberta from Toronto, Ontario

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What Is This Plant?

I'm trying to find out what type of plant this is, so I may better care for it (as it seems to be struggling to survive). I really enjoy this plant because each leaf is uniquely colored with green & white. I appreciate all help/responses. Thanks!

Hardiness Zone: 6b

Patrick from Saddle Brook, NJ

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How Far Apart Should Your Well Be From Your Septic Tank?

How far apart should your well be from your septic tank?

Brian from Dundurn, SK

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Rescued Dog Won't Go Potty

Two days ago we began fostering a 3 year old Shih Tzu who was abandoned with a serious injury. He had a skin infection on his hind leg. His leg is healing well and his appetite is great. But, he has only peed twice; once out of fear on my bed and once on the floor. He has yet to poo. We've taken him outside regularly first thing in the morning, after eating and before bed. Also whenever we suspected he needed to go but nothing! Any suggestions? The vets at the shelter indicated that he had no problem going there.

Banjo from Brooklyn, New York

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Removing Chewing Gum From Carpet

I tried ice cubes on chewing gum that is on the carpet but it still has left some pink patches.

Can anyone help me, please?

Paris from West Midlands

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Odor From Front Loading Washing Machine

I made a large batch of liquid laundry detergent. I have a front loading washing machine (which I love). My problem is when I go to remove the clothes, if it isn't the second it stops, they begin to get a foul odor. I can't say it's the musty smell if you leave the clothes in overnight either. Has anyone else had this problem?

Thanks!

Kim from Sutton, New Hampshire

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Cleaning White Glue Off A Car

Some jerk threw a large amount of white glue (you know the Elmer's school glue) onto my car. Does anyone know how to remove dried white glue from a car without destroying the paint.

I've tried car washes and soaking it but it's very stubborn.

PsyckoSama from Philadelphia PA

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File Sharing Site Advice

I use limewire already but what is another good site for file sharing without all the spam and ads

Donnarae from Elmira, NY

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Keeping Cats From Eating Houseplants

My elderly mother lives with me and the two joys in her life are playing bingo and her cat. My problem is how do I stop her cat from eating my indoor plants without harming them? Eating them doesn't seem to harm the cat and I have spider plants, crotons, palms, etc. Has anyone any ideas before my beloved plants are all ruined?

Cettina from Malta, Europe

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Food For Small Wedding Reception

What should I serve at my wedding reception for only 60 people?

Kayleigh from South Seaville, NJ

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Green Goddess Mushroom Filling

I'm looking for green goddess filling for mushrooms, used in fondue.

Rick from Charleston, SC

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Tips For An Abundance Of Squash

What can I do with an abundance of squash that has gotten big (maybe too ripe)?

Kathy from Coatesville, PA

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Cleaning Terry Cloth Bar Towels

I work at a small ice cream store in the evenings. We use regular terry cloth bar towels to mop up spills and wipe down counters. I work with all teenagers so asking them to rinse out the towels does not work. I take the towels home every weekend to launder. I first put them through a rinse cycle (warm water) to remove some of the ice cream and anything else on the towels. Next, I refill the washer with HOT water 1 cup of bleach, 1 cap full of Oxyclean and 1 cap full of liquid detergent and then let it soak for at least 12 hours if not more. Then I run it through the pre-wash cycle. I then run the load through a full heavy duty wash with the bleach, Oxyclean, and soap again. I still don't get all the stains out but the towels were starting to look a little better, then I was off for a week and I'm back to square one. The towels look like they've been cleaning the floor with them again. Any suggestions?

Donna from Eastlake, Ohio

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Tomato Puree vs. Tomato Sauce

I am going to make spaghetti sauce. I use tomato paste, and crushed tomatoes. I want to also add either a can of tomato puree, or a can of tomato sauce. What do you think might result in a better tasting sauce? I will also add my normal seasonings.
P.S. Can you tell me also, why you would choose one over the other?

Thanks,
P.J. from DELAWARE

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Masquerade Ball Prom Theme

We are going to have a masquerade prom and I wanted to know if any one had ideas for the food, decorations, and colors. I'm not sure how many people will be there yet.

Amber

Editor's Note: Here are some other posts on ThriftyFun that may be helpful for your Masquerade Prom:

• Planning a Masquerade Ball
• Decorating Ideas for a Masquerade Ball

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Pecan Trees With Rotten Pecans

I have native pecan trees and have lost all my pecan. The pecans that have fell off look like they have a white mold on them and they are soft. We have had an above amount of rain this summer. All 3 of my trees lost there pecans but my next door neighbor is fine. The leaves on the tree look great. I don't want this to happen next year. Help

Hardiness Zone: 8b

Robbin from Central Texas

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Repairing Dry Wall After Wallpaper Removal

I took down old wallpaper and exposed sheetrock down to brown paper. It was suggested to use heavy duty wall liner and paint over that. I do not want textured walls or wallpaper. If I use the wall liner only: Do I still need to repair the walls and primer them before adding paper? Also, is wall liner a good option instead of textured walls and wallpaper?

Momofboys from Chattanooga, TN

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Ink on Clothes that Have Dried

I had washed some clothes and after they were put in the dryer and were dried, I noticed that a pen was in the dryer. Now my whites have ink stains set in. Is there anything that I can do to get the ink out?

Misty from Ohio

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Saving Money on Packed Lunches

With kids going back to school soon, it's a good time to start looking for ways to save money on packed lunches. Do you have any tips to share? Please post them below.

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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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Essentials for Baby
By Debra Frick

With so many new mothers facing hard times these days and with all the new gadgets and gear out there, I thought I would give a basic list as to what is really needed for your new baby and what is just plain fluff that you probably won't use. Now if you want the latest in baby gear, this article is not for you. But if this latest bundle of joy was unexpected or you are having hard times, here is a rock bottom list of things you will need to get by. I am not saying that having some of the fun stuff is wrong but leave that kind of stuff for gifts for your baby shower.

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