Daily Thrifty Tips - August 20, 2008

Having an organized house can go a long way to help ease the tranistion from summer vacation to school starting. Do you have any organizing tips to share with ThriftyFun readers. Feel free to submit them here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_contest.ldml

Thanks for reading,

Susan

• Send to a Friend!
• Share a Tip (You could win $25!)
• Share a Photo (You could win $25!)
• Have a Question? Submit a request...
• Link to ThriftyFun.com
• View Active Topics!

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

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

Reusing Racks and Bins from Refrigerators

Great re-use idea! A friend was discarding an expensive, but old refrigerator. I asked for the bins which I use to wash things outside, and I asked for the wire shelves.

I immediately used them to keep squirrels from digging up morning glory seedlings, which they do every year. The sun and water can get through until the vines are big enough to hold on for themselves. I used to tie on screening, but that was a pain. This is so easy!

By OhioGirl from Cleveland Ohio

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf35721732.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Sunshine (Boxer)

Sunshine is 11 months old and is a Boxer. We saw a sign advertising Boxer puppies on our way home from warehouse club shopping last November. Sunshine was part of an unwanted litter.

She likes to play frisbee and ball, sleep, tear the fringe off her taggie blanket.

Boxers are a wonderful breed. Aside from how beautiful they are, they're a lot of fun to play with and kind. Proper training is a necessary part of having a Boxer as they're strong and high energy. Sunshine's our pal and our kids get a kick out of her.

By cerealwife from Minneapolis, MN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf82039047.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

• Tip Contest
  Submit a Tip or Recipe!

• Photo Contest
  Submit a tip with photo!

These contests are weekly. We pick 2 tip winners and 1 photo winner at the end of each week. Each winner will win $25!

• My Frugal Life
  Submit a My Frugal Life Essay!

Organizing: Find A Place For Everything

The best tip is one you have heard a million times ... A place for everything, and everything in it's place.

This really works if you make sure you find a spot in your home for anything and everything you will not have clutter - that is if you put it away. Typically I repeat this in my head like a mantra as I put things away. When I move somewhere new, I have made this my purpose while unpacking this way I start fresh. I then will redo things hundreds of times over the years to make it suit new things. Seems simple and normal but if you live by it, it works!

By Gina from Collegeville, POA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf71390780.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Organizing Your Bathroom For Busy Mornings

I have an open wicker bookcase that is oval shaped with three shelves in my bathroom. It has three shelves that are deep and will hold tall items. The shelves have large scarf doilies on them to prevent items from falling through to the floor. On one shelf I store my earrings in trinket boxes (the jewelry is separated by color and size); bracelets in an antique bath powder box, ankle bracelets in a small decorative tin box.). I use a wooden mug holder to hold my large necklaces. I attached large paper clips to the openings in the wicker and hang necklaces according to the chain length either on the inside of the shelves or the longer chain necklaces on the side of the large shelf; I can't quickly locate an accessory for my outfits.

There is a shelf that holds my hair products that are in a basket, a pretty flower pot holds brushes, combs. A decorative box holds make-up. Lotions, moisturizers, etc. are contained in flat baskets at the back of the the shelf.

The bottom shelf stores bath towels/hand towels which are rolled up in a tight roll.

My hair dryer/curling iron hang on a shelf designed for them; instead of wrapping the cords around the shelf, I keep a wicker plant basket underneath the shelf on the floor, the cords can fall into the open basket and stay neat.

My vanity is next to the wicker shelf so I have everything I need available to prepare for the day at my fingertips. The top of the vanity holds a tray with my deodorant, eye glass cleaner, standing eyeglass holder, a small glass tray with medications for the day, a decorative pitcher that holds dental care items and a pretty juice glass for water. I have a large walk-in closet in the bathroom; I organize my clothes on a hook on the back of the closet door including shoes underneath the outfit; the accessories are on the wicker shelf nearby; I keep my purse on a hook hanging in the closet.

I keep an early morning schedule to arrive at work so I have to be organized to be ready for the day by 5:30 a.m.!

By JOSE from TENNESSEE

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf23655579.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Cornstarch Window Cleaner

I have always had trouble with cleaning windows. I always get streaks. I saw in an old book to use a handful of cornstarch in a bucket of lukewarm water. I add also a little vinegar about 1/4 - 1/2 depending on the size of the bucket. Mix. Use a wash cloth to wash window, then I use a hand towel to dry the window and a final towel to get it all dry. I have 18 windows in my house and 3 entry doors. I can wash them all on the outside with 1 bucket of water, 1 wash cloth and 3 - 4 hand towels (when the final towel gets too wet I replace it with another). Then I get a fresh bucket and do the inside. If your towels are limited, you can dry them on the close line and do the inside/outside the next day.

By Beth from Bloomfield, IN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf143015.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Warm Tortillas on Top of Your Splatter Cover

I found a simple way to warm tortillas while you cook what is going into them. I use to flop them one by one directly on the burner, but discovered a easier method. What you are cooking in the skillet, put a wire mesh grease splatter cover over the skillet and lay the tortilla on there, flip it around when the first side is warm. I suppose you can do more than one by doing a rotation.

By Linda from Bellevue, N.E

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf57795572.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Store Your Celery In Aluminum Foil

I have learned that if you fully wrap your bunch of celery (unwashed and uncut with the twist tie removed) in foil and store it in the fridge it will last longer. I just used the last of some I stored a little over 4 weeks ago! I like to keep it on hand but used to end up throwing out about half as I did not get it used up before it started going bad. I know you can freeze it for cooking but I love having it fresh also.

By Mumsey from San Antonio, TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf58104801.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Eating BBQ With a Coffee Filter

Who would have ever thought you needed a coffee filter to eat BBQ? Well, the last time I was eating BBQ I got so fed up with my paper napkin sticking to my fingers I decided to go to war with the sticky BBQ sauce and found that using a paper coffee filter worked great to use as a BBQ Rib/Bone HOLDER while I ate. I didn't use it like a napkin but as a holder.

By Julie from Trout Valley, IL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf50376672.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Quick Dinner: Salmon Patties

Salmon patties are a quick and easy dinner I can throw together when I get home late from work, and don't want to spend all evening in the kitchen. The other day, I had about 1 cup of left-over mashed potatoes from dinner the night before, and I usually make potato pancakes out of them, but I put the leftover mashed potatoes in my salmon patties, Gave them a wonder flavor and a smooth texture. I used 1 can of salmon.

By Joyce from Evansville, Indiana

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf50380615.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Use A Marble For The Very Last Of A Spray Bottle

When using a spray bottle and getting down to the bottom and you cant get the remaining product out. Just drop a marble in the bottle. You will be able to get out every last drop of the product through the sprayer.

By Janette from Parkersburg,WV

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf27870903.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Score Your Car Tags To Avoid Theft

To keep your car tag registration sticker from being stolen. Clean the area where it goes well. Window cleaner works best because of the alcohol. After adhering the new one well, score (cut) it several times with a razor blade. Someone trying to steal it only gets bits and pieces instead of it coming off in one piece.

Source: a hint I learned years ago when I was an auto inspector in FL.

By Keeper60 from NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf64059073.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Store Cilantro In Water To Keep Longer

To keep cilantro from wilting after you bring it home from the store, stand the bunch in a glass of water and stick it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for a week+. The same holds true for parsley.

By Anne from Green Bay, WI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf67986343.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

"Time Of Use" Electricity Plan

We are on a "Time-of-Use" plan for the electricity we use in our home. Our provider is Wisconsin Public Service. From 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. and 24 hours/day on Saturdays,Sundays, and holidays, we are charged $.0549/KWH. During peak time, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., the rate is $.2073/KWH. It can amount to a nice savings if one learns to use her electric stove, dishwasher, dehumidifier, clothes dryer, and other appliances during those off-peak hours. It is a habit that we found quite easy to adapt to. Contact your utility company to see if they offer this plan.

By Anne from Green Bay, WI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf80151915.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Chihuahua Pooping on Carpet

I have a 3 year old chihuahua that someone gave me. She was house broken but since I have had her she has been pooping in the house and usually only in my computer room or my bedroom where there is carpet. She occasionally goes on the hardwood floors in the living room also. We have put her outside for a few minutes every couple of hours and have cut back on her food, what else can I do? I hate yelling at her, she is already so skittish all the time. Any advice will be appreciated.

Allie from Excelsior Springs, MO

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf40073194.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Removing Mothball Smell From Clothing

How do you remove the Moth Ball smell from clothing? I have just purchased some nice second hand clothing, which have been stored in moth balls. I have washed them in washing powder and Eucalyptus Oil but the smell is still there.

Jackie Y from Adelaide, Australia

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf727097.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Borax for Fleas

I have had my boxers on Frontline PLUS but it doesn't seem to be working. My female boxer just had 2 pups which are two weeks old. Fleas are all over them. The Vet said wash them in Dawn detergent and put Borax down. I have done this. Can I wash the mom and dad boxers in the Borax as well?
Cubby from Lancaster, SC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf747531.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Colorful Perennials In Northern Texas

I live in North, TX (DFW) and was wondering if there are any colorful fall/winter perennials that I can plant in my flower garden?

Hardiness Zone: 8a


Samantha from Dallas, TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf56451079.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Peek-a-Boo Dolls?

I'm trying to find out what the dolls are called that are homemade and are about the size when finished as a 2 year old toddler standing up. But the main idea of the Boy or Girl Doll is for their faces to be hidden while they are bent over hiding there face against their arms. I have seen these on front porches, mostly outside dolls.

They usually have overalls on and you only see there body, arms, back of head and neck wearing hats the majority of the time. I guess they are stuffed in some way. I would like to know what they Are called? How they are made? I thought they might be called Peek-a-Boo Dolls but not sure. They look like they are playing hide and seek and counting. And if anyone has a picture to share that would be great! Thanks in advance.

Julie

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54229724.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Leaves Turning Brown On Dogwood Tree

I have planted a dogwood tree and it was doing splendidly but now the leaves have all turned brown and I believe it is dying. This is the second tree that has done this. Any suggestion?

Hardiness Zone: 5b


az2010 from East Hampton, MA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf26058856.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Neglected Clear Glass Shower Enclosure

What cleaning products will bring back a 20 year neglected clear glass shower enclosure with beige tile walls and floors with grout?

Diane from Gig Harbor, WA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf91026279.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Crocheting A Purse Using Pop Top Tabs

I am looking for instructions for a purse crocheted out of pop tabs. Where can I find instructions for "manicuring" the tabs to smooth them for craft work? Can you help me? Thank you.

Mariposa

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf39004342.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Tim Horton's Apple Fritter Recipe

How do they make Apple Fritters at Tim Horton's?

Phyllis

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55029854.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Rainbow Tea Party Ideas

My church is planning a rainbow tea and I am chairperson on organizing and getting things together. Where do I start? I need ideals on getting people involved, entertainment, food, etc.

Darlene from Stony Point, NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf21559500.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

My Dog Won't Stop Barking

My chi pin barks at everyone. How do I curb her barking? She is 8 months old. Thanks.

Orab from Hollywood, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf675671.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Craft Ideas for Someone That Lives in a Nursing Home

I work at a nursing home as an activities director. I need ideas for new and exciting things I can do with them. Please keep in mind, that not many of them can do anything. Many only have the use of one hand.

I would also like to beg you to get involved in your local home. Many of them don't get visitors and could use friends. If you call ahead, most places will have someone able and ready to go for an ice cream or even church on Sundays. You can help simply by grabbing your pet and/or a book (I like the Chicken Soup books) and just go read to them, or hold a hand, you won't be sorry.

April from Buffalo, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf889789.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

White Heat Marks on Wood Table

I have a light colored wooden Ash dining table with white spots. I tried Mayo, cigarette ash, and a steam iron but nothing works. There is a finish on the table.

Joe from Boston, MA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf480173.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Ideas For Arabian Themed Party Decorations

I am looking for tips for an Arabian themed room for a party. Pictures of the room decorations and costumes will be helpful.

Nancy

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf18978559.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Homemade Dog Toys

I have a dog and I am getting a puppy. I need to make some toys for them and I need ideas.

Paige from Delray, Florida

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf488316.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Homemade Dog Food Recipes

I am looking for yummy recipes for my dog who has little interest in food right now. She's been put on Prozac recently and she's underweight already. She's always been picky and prefers homemade food. I've chosen to make the switch.

Pam from Montesano, WA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf877190.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

My Computer "Freezes" All The Time

My computer freezes up no matter what I am doing on it. I have tried everything and it still freezes. Help.

LaVerne from Louisville, KY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf99431983.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Faded Leather Couch

Leather couch arm has faded spots from someone using a towel with Oxy Clean on it. Turned a dark brown leather to light brown. Small area needs to be darken.

KG from Gulf Coast, MS

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54607347.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Swollen Feet and Ankles

When the weather gets hot my feet and ankles swell. Has anyone come across anything that works. I've tried diuretics - didn't help much. Thanks.

Gloria from Saslatcjewam

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf184748.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Growing a Mango Tree

I am planning to grow a Mango tree in Athens, Greece. I have carefully read the instructions that you gave to other people regarding planting the seed. I would like to ask you two questions:

1. If I eat the mango fruit, take the seed and plant it after 5-7 days is it ok? or should I plant right after consuming it?

2. In Greece we have a relative warm climate. Sometimes during winter may be for one month is relatively cold below 10 degrees Celsius. I would like to ask you. Do you think is a good idea to plant it in a big pot and keep it their until next spring that might be strong enough and to replant it to my garden?

Konstantina

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf37326025.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Orange Rainbow Tea Ideas

I having my first rainbow tea and my color is orange. Can anyone give me any decorating tips or order of service for program? thanks in advance.

Pam from Lumberton, NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf79826002.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Keeping Ants Out Your Pet's Bowl

A few days ago, we had to move our dryer to another room - thus, we had to drill a hole in the outside wall for the vent. Our cat has his food and litter box in that room and now ants are swarming in his food bowl.

My husband and I are students and we can't afford to buy ant spray or traps for two more weeks. Does anyone have an idea about how to keep the ants out with something I might already have, like vinegar, baking soda, baby powder, or anything else? Help!

Marie from Idaho Falls, Idaho

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf409599.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

Lawnmower Woes: Starter Cord Won't Pull

I put my new Tubobilt Lawnmower together. It started the first time I pulled the rope. Then, it stopped and the rope will not come back out.

Jorgette

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf274890.tip.html

Email to a Friend | Get Responses | Bookmark | Link | Rate It: | Print

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