Daily Thrifty Tips
Volume Four, Number 191 August 8 2005
http://www.ThriftyFun.com
Hello,
We had a great response to our call for Photo Contest Entries last week. We are donating $2 for every photo contest entry that was
submitted before Sunday at midnight. We received 32 contest entries for a total of $64. We went ahead and rounded that total up and made a $100 donation today. Every little bit helps. Thank you to everyone that participated.
Thanks for reading,
Susan
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Today's newsletter contains:
Today's Photos:
Today's Tips:
New Requests:
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Today's Photos
Plastic Bag Dispenser
By Rela Ann Ever figure out where to put those tons of plastic bags you get when you go to the groceries? Here's a cheap way to do it while teaching your young ones the value of recycling!
View Project: Click Here
Cokeyo at the Pond (Chocolate Toy Poodle)
More . . . Cokeyo (Chocolate Toy Poodle)
This picture we accidently left out of Saturday's entry.
See the other pictures of Cokeyo at:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf537803.tip.html
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Tissue Paper is the Best Toy
Kylie pictured at the top and Abigail at the bottom have the best present, tissue paper. So my tip is give them what they really want paper!
By Kelly
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Ravenel Bridge - The New Bridge Meets the Old Bridge
The New Arthur Ravenel Bridge (replaces the Cooper River Bridges in Charleston, SC)
This is our New Bridge which opened last week in Charleston, SC. It replaces The Cooper River Bridges which were built in 1928. (Very tired old bridges it replaces.) We had a week long celebrations and walked the bridge the first day it opened to walkers then had fireworks then the first day to traffic was July 16th and we were one of the first cars to cross it that day. A HUGE deal here in Charleston and in South Carolina. Thanks for looking at our proud treasure!
2nd pic, while on top of the New Ravenel Bridge, I take pictures of the Old Cooper River Bridges.
My daughter is running with her best friend on the New Bridge in one pic and pics of the new bridge also follow.
By Karen Calvert
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Beaded Bookmark
By Kelli Mahoney These are simple and fun gifts to give for all kinds of occasions. They are easy enough for a child to complete, or you can make them more embellished for your personal use.
View Project: Click Here
Today's Tips
Out of Pizza Dough?
I have used biscuits and pressed them down and added sauce, pepperoni, peppers etc. Bake until the crust and cheese is browned.
By Sandi G (s222)
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Tulle Scrubbies - Crocheting a Pot Scrubber
Someone asked for instructions on how to make a pot scrubber. The website at http://www.knitting-crochet.com/crochet/nylpot.html will teach you how. They also have instructions on how to make baby blankets, pony tail scrunchies, perky snood. It's a very useful site.
By jean
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Saving Money on Toys
Tips for saving money on toys. Post your ideas.
Saving While Shopping for Toys
The best money saving tip I have is - don't bring your kids to the toy store with you.
By Samantha Dicicco
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Polishing Chrome
A little white flour sprinkled on a dry rag makes a nice chrome polish. Excellent when you have that little bit left in the bottom of the bag. All your bathroom fixtures will shine, along with car parts.
By kittyhassparkle
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Tips For Making That First Day Of School Transition
By Sharon Shearer Children who are used to being home often have a stressful time adjusting to the transition of leaving MOM for school. This is a period of my life that I will never forget. I was mom's baby -- the last of six kids. In my little mind MOM was the one being PUNISHED. I'd lay my head on my desk and cry. I didn't know how she'd make it without me. (Little did I realize she probably LOVED the quiet time!!)
For several years I worked with children in Head Start and observed many breaking away situations, and I'd like to pass along a few tips to Moms to help their new student through this transition.
1. Be a Real Encourager
Don't let them see you cry. Then go home and bawl your eyes out! If your school allows, and they must ride a bus, let them ride and meet the bus at the school. Whether you are happy or not with their new teacher, don't let the child know. Do everything in your power to make this an exciting experience. Excitement is contagious!
2. For the Child's Sake and the Teacher's . . .
Don't linger any longer than you must. This only adds to the misery. One crying child can set off half a classroom of bawling children.
3. Assure Them That This Will Be Fun
They'll meet LOTS of new friends and YOU WILL be there when they come home, and you want to hear ALL ABOUT this first day!
4. AS PROMISED -- Put Everything Else Aside and LISTEN.
Children talk if we listen. They'll let you know their likes and dislikes and by being observant you can sense their worries and frustrations and make your plans for helping them work for them.
5. Determine To Be An Active Participant In Their Activities.
Trust me -- there will come a day when they don't WANT mom to be there, but for now, YOU'RE A TEAM. And your goal is to make this strange new phase of life FUN and exciting!
To wrap up my childhood crying story, do we ever quit crying? I cried with all three of mine, but I never let 'em see me. And as I get older I realize that moms really do feel like they're being punished when they turn over their BABY to a school system. That is until the newness wears off and they get a taste of "Quiet Time."
Sharon,Ky
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"THE TEACHER" Poem
I have this sweet poem in my family scrapbook, and thought I'd like to share it:
The Teacher
When meeting someone at the first,
They often ask me what I do.
I smile and think of how I taught
My little boy to tie his shoe,
And how to sing and how to pray
And how to tell the time of day.
Why the rainbow's in the sky,
Why birdies can, but cow's can't fly.
Why sky is blue and grass is green
And unicorns are never seen.
How to think of others first
And deal with life's little hurts.
To say "Thank You" and "You're welcome"
Say "Please for food, don't reach."
When someone asks me what I do,
I simply smile and say, "I TEACH."
Author - Drewe Llyn Jeffcoat
Shared by Sharon,KY
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Painting Over Wallpaper
When painting over wallpaper is unavoidable, use an oil-based primer first and the paper will not buckle beneath the paint.
By Patricia
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Lavender Dryer Sheets
While shopping in California at Trader Joe's I found the most wonderful lavender dryer sheets. Upon returning to Florida I found no Trader Joe's and I went on a desperate search on the Internet. Following is what I found! I am soooo excited and hope you will be too!
http://www.kitchenherbalist.com/recipes/homecare/recipe-9.html
Base essential oil blend:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 part lavender essential oil
- 1/2 part benzoin essential oil * (absolute resin)
- small dropper bottle
- Unscented dryer sheets (I use Bounce Free but any good quality brand will do).
- Airtight container to store scented dryer sheets.
* Benzoin with the lavender will help "hold" the scent in the fabric for it is a fixative.
Method:
Make base essential oil by mixing the two oils in equal amounts into a small dropper bottle. Shake well. Label.
Take 10 - 15 dryer sheets out of the box and put 4 5 drops of essential oil base on each one. Put into an airtight container that you can easily get your hand into to take one out at a time as needed for the dryer.
To Use:
Use as you would a normal dryer sheet. The airtight container will help hold the scent in the dryer sheets instead of just dissipating out into the room and leaving the dryer sheet less scented. Leave the additional essential oil base that you have left with the unscented dryer sheets to easily make more are you need them.
Mitzi
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Fixing Squeaky Floors
Tips for fixing a squeaky floor. Post your ideas.
Squeaky Floor Boards
Use talcum powder or baby powder, around the area of a squeaky floor board and sweep it into the cracks. Do not vacuum but do wipe up any extra with a wet cloth so no one slips on it. No more squeaks.
By kittyhassparkle
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Teacher Discounts
We all know to ask for Senior discounts, military discounts, AARP discounts, children's discounts when applicable. The other day I read somewhere if you're a teacher to ask if there are discounts available for you, especially in educational areas, such as museums, movies, etc. We work hard for our money, so might as well stretch it in any way we can.
By Terri
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New Contest - More Prizes
We are giving away 16 $25 prizes in a variety of categories.
Tip Contest!
To enter, visit:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/contest.ldml
Photo Contest!
To enter, visit:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/photo_contest.ldml
Contest ends August 31, 2005
Syndication Spotlight:
Here are some publishers that have chosen to publish our tips this week!
Dear Webby's Humor Letter
Webby publishes our tips daily! A very funny newsletter.
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New Requests
Hummingbird Vine Pod
On some of the flowers on my hummingbird vine there is a long green pod. Is this a seed pod?
Annette
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Vinegar Rinse for Dogs
My vet directed me to give my cocker spaniel vinegar rinses, 10% vinegar and the rest water. But I am uncertain if he meant to leave it on her or rinse it off? She has had terrible skin allergies for 11 years now. I have given her allergy shots, benedryl, and other remedies for it throughout her life. I have found bathing her more often has made a little difference, she doesn't break out as much. But I am still in question about the rinse method?
Ellen
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Curling Tomato Leaves
This is my first year vegetable gardening in 12 years. My tomato plants (Big Girl) have just recently developed some branches whose leaves have started to curl. I cut back on watering recently because I've heard that daily watering produces lots of leaves but fewer fruits. Is this my problem?
Also, I just bought some seed packets for 10/$1.00. Will these be good next spring?
Jean from Connecticut
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Indoor Plants That Don't Require Too Much Sunshine
I am looking for a rather tall indoor plant that requires very little sunshine. Also, what are small indoor plants that do not require too much special treatment?
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Device To Keep a Running Total While Shopping
I am looking for a device other that a calculator that will keep a running total of what I'm putting in my shopping cart. I am just starting a new budget and would like to keep on track as much as possible.
Thanks,
Shannon from Indiana
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Gift Ideas For a Business Partner
I have a good business partner, and his birthday is coming in 2 months. I want to get him a great, unusual gift, but I couldn't find anyone who can help me with it. The problem is that I'm busy, and do not have enough time to think about it. I'm ready to pay some money for a good ideas. Do you know any creative agencies or companies who can help me?
Derek
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Dandruff Problem
I am having a dandruff problem. Does anyone know any conventional treatment? I tried all kinds of shampoo, both medicated and commercialized. I also tried using cream with cortisone but it did not help at all.
Sara of Mississauga
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Grandmother's 70th Birthday
My grandmother's turning 70 in november. I want to plan a surprise party. Any ideas for a theme, favors, or entertainment?
jenn
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Converting a Baby Stroller Into a Pet Stroller
I have been looking at the new pet strollers. They are all so expensive. I think I may try to convert a baby stroller. All I have to do is figure out how to enclose it so my cat doesn't get out. I can buy a baby stroller used at the childrens' consignment shop for about $25.00. I have spent hours searching the internet and I cannot believe that I can't find any information on this.
Has anyone else done something like this so you could take your cat for a walk?
Thanks.
Karen
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Is Clay Litter Bad For Cats?
I've vaguely heard that regular clay scoopable litter is bad for kitties. The cat licks her feet and gets litter in her GI tract. The caking agent used expands 15 times its original size so even very small amounts can get to be a lot in a kitty's GI tract. It doesn't get eliminated from the body.
Has anyone heard this? Does anyone have information or links about this problem? Any vets out there to confirm or refute this claim?
Thanks in advance.
coolchinchilla
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Recipe for Liquid Dish Soap
If anyone has a recipe for homemade dish liquid I'd love to make my own. I use to use dawn dish liquid but have developed allergies to commercial cleaners. I have been making my own dishwasher and laundry detergent and others for a while now and it has helped a lot. Now my dish liquid and shampoo is bothering me so any suggestions will be tried and appreciated.
Thanks,
Chas
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Windmill Made Out Of Soda Cans
I would like to find a pattern for making a windmill out of soda cans.
Erin
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Which Type Freezer Should I Buy?
I am going to purchase a freezer. Which type is better -- chest or upright and why? Also, I was told to buy a manual defrost freezer not a frost free. Is a frost free freezer for short term freezing? I would appreciate any feedback?
Thanks.
"Mike"
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Removing Sap From Nylon Pants
How do I get sap off a pair of hiking pants made of 100% nylon material? There is alot, as I sat in it!
Pattie
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Plastic tub in mobile home has yellowed?
Can anyone tell me what in the world will make these plastic tubs in a newer mobile home white again? We bought this one after it sat empty 2 years and I have tried everything, even clorox to get these tubs white!
I would appreciate any suggestions.
Thanks.
Sandee from Alabama
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My dog started messing in the house.
My 4 year old Husky, Leea, started messing in the house when I leave. She started doing this a few months ago. We have had her about 2 years now. She was abused and abandoned. Now she is a very loved baby girl. My boyfriend is not to happy with this new behavior. Help,
Lisa of Michigan
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Cleaning and Organizing My Room
Please help me find a way to clean my room. There's soo much stuff and my sister is now moving into my room and I can't find a way to organize it and keep it like that! It's all messy and there's all this junk all over the floor!
Turning Insane from Utah
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What Are Your Favorite Links?
I would like to know of some other good and helpful websites that other ThriftyFun readers enjoy. I really like thriftyfun.com. i share it with many people.
Tthank you in advance. Have a great day
Sandy
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Growing Mixed Balloon Flowers
I am growing mixed balloon flowers for the first time, I'm suprised at their height and the way some of them droop. Is it necessary to make supports for them, and at what time in their growth should I do that? What could I used to create the supports with items I have at home already? Would stakes and string be ok, or should each have it's own support?
Thanks,
Joan in CT
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How Much Sunshine Should Container Tomato Plants Have
How many hours of full sunshine should container tomato plants have? Mine have all day sun and they're producing but getting spindly. I can't fertilize in this heat if that is the problem?
Thanks,
Poopsey
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Strawberry Plants Not Producing
I purchased and planted a dozen strawberry plants for my 5-year-old son, thinking that he would have fun watching his favorite fruit grow. So far, none of them have produced any viable frut. I've seen a few that started out OK, but they always shirvel up and turn brown before they ripen. I keep them reasonably watered, and they're growing in raised beds. Can you help? Are strawberries temperature sensitive? Maybe the summer heat wave here in NM has prevented fruit production?
Thanks!
Lynne
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Pruning a Hibiscus
Can anyone tell me how far back I need to prune my hibiscus. it has been inside this summer. I have a few leggy limbs with new growth, so I would like to keep them. it's sister looks great. They are the twisted branch type.
Thanks,
Lynn in Georgia
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Problems Growing Zucchini
Am I the only gardener in the US who doesn't have enough zucchini squash? :-) I planted four zucchini plants in my raised-bed garden, thinking that they would produce plenty for my small family. The plants have grown well and are quite large, but have so far only produced about 10 squashes this whole summer (this is a total count, not 10 from each plant).
Most of the flowers seem to fall off before they get pollinated. Any suggestions? I live in Albuquerque, New Mexico so the plants get plenty of sun, and I water them regularly.
Lynne
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Make Your Own Ottoman
Does anyone have simple plans for building the frame for an ottoman, especially a round storage one, which I can upholster?
Lea
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