Daily Thrifty Tips - October 8, 2007

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! We have lots of recent recalls in the More Reading section. Be sure to check them out.

This Friday's Saving Money On... will be about Saving Money on Drapes, Blinds and Window Treatments. Do you any tips to share? Please submit them here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf39019289.tip.html

Also, if you have any Halloween tips, deocorations or costume ideas, feel free to submit them on one of the contest pages.

Here are the contest winners for the week before last...

Photo Contest Winner

Coffee Can Bird Feeder
By Craftingblues from Havre, MT

Tip Contest Winners

Make Up A Loaf Of French Toast For Later
By Veronica from Sedalia, Missouri

Old Clothesline as a Garden Trellis
By Marie from West Dundee, IL

Thanks for reading,

Susan

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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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Craft: Creepy Spiders

Here are some spiders made from different things, pom poms or mini pumpkins, pipe cleaners and paint.

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Christmas CD Poinsettias

Christmas wall, window and tree decor. Drill a hole on an old CD and tie a ribbon or a yarn through the hole. Hot glue a poinsettia/leaves or any Christmas symbol on the CD. Make a bowtie and glue just above the the flower.

By Lourna from Ronneby, Sweden

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White Dog At One Year (American Bulldog)

White Dog is an American Bulldog and is 1 year old. I got him from the pound about 9 months ago. He likes to play crazy dog and he likes to run with me and race me on my bike ball mostly he like to cuddle

He is a life saver and I am going to have him take that test for visiting sick or elderly. He saves my life every day so I know that he would love helping others too

By faith from tempe

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Halloween: Mr. Pumpkin Ate The Cake

Here's an idea that never fails to amuse the kids at Halloween: Make any kind of cake that you like. Remove a slice (eat it or hide it where the kids won't find it). Put a little plastic jack-o-lantern on top of the cake. Smear some icing on the pumpkin's mouth and tell the kids Mr. Pumpkin ate the cake. Kids love it and the little one really believe it!

Joan from Chesapeake, VA

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Make Postcards Out of Old Christmas Cards

It 's not too early to be thinking about Christmas. This year, send postcards or letters instead of Christmas cards. You can even cut your old Christmas cards, from last year, in half and send the pretty side as a postcard. You're being "earth friendly" by keeping new cards out of the garbage dumps. If you send postcards, whether purchased or homemade, remember they require less postage than a regular card! Old Christmas cards make great gift tags too!

By Momof1 from Wilkesboro, NC

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Use Wine To Drown Fruit Flies

I found a great way to get rid of fruit flies. Just put a glass of wine on the counter overnight. In the morning it will be full of dead fruit flies. You may never have them again.

By Jule from MA

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Homemade Foot Softener

Would you like softer feet? I found out a way to do so. I sell Avon and I got a sample of some stuff to soften feet, but it felt like petroleum jelly with some nice mint in it. So I figured the way to really save money was to make my own feet softener.

First, I put a good lotion or cream on my feet and rub in. Then I take petroleum jelly and put a light coat it over top. Usually I just put it on before bed and put cotton socks on, but you can put your feet into plastic grocery bags first then into socks for a deep treatment. When you put your feet into bags first, it helps hold moisture in and creates heat. That will make your feet feel and look softer. But you can put your lotion and jelly on before bed and put socks on, and get really good results.

How often? I'd say just a few days a week is fine. That's what I do and I have very dry feet and skin. I hope this helps someone out!

By Misty from Wooster, OH

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Divide Large Canned Goods Into Smaller Servings

As expensive as canned vegetables have gotten, I find it better to buy one super large can and divide portions into small size zip bags for freezing. I then am very happy with the ease of bag boiling my veggie (I have only done this with corn so far) and even better, I can pack it in whatever size portion I need!

By Veronica from Sedalia, Missouri

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Pegboard for Organizing the Craft Room

When organizing my craft room, I took pegboard, I made mine longer and skinny.I bought nails (took a spool with me to hardware store) poked the nails in from behind and organized my thread. At the bottom, I put "S" hooks and hung my "cloth/sewing" only scissors.

By Keeper from Morganton, NC

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Reusing Square Kleenex Boxes

I have kleenex (facial tissue) all over the house, almost every room. Instead of constantly buying the small square box that fits in the common decorative kleenex holder, I keep reusing the first box, open one of the side flaps, grab a 2 inch stack from the cheaper box, fold over the kleenex and put inside the old empty square box, close the flaps and slip it back in the decorative holder. The small square boxes are more expensive and there is no need to keep buying them. The original is easy to refill and use so the kleenex keeps its shape in the holder.

By Laura from Camano Island, WA

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Walmart and Publix Have Deals On Prescriptions

I'd like to remind everyone that WalMart pharmacies are offering $4.00 generic drugs. You can find the list on the WalMart website - www.walmart.com. Just look at the pharmacy section.

Also, some Publix Supermarkets are offering select oral antibiotics for FREE! This list and participating store locations can also be found on the Publix website - www.publix.com. Just look at the pharmacy section.

My 22 year old daughter just went to Publix and got her antibiotic prescription for FREE.

By tneisess from Anderson, SC

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Limit Your Grocery Money

Before heading out to shop, make a list. Put a list of items you want, plus the sale price and any coupons you have. Total the costs before leaving the house and only bring that much money. You will limit impulse spending that way.

By Laurie from Arizona

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Use Cereal Boxes For Mailing

I have been selling some of my daughter's outgrown clothing on ebay. To ship the items, I save and use empty cereal boxes and wrap them in inexpensive brown craft paper (about $1.17 per roll at Wal-Mart - it goes a long way). The boxes are much lighter than corrugated boxes and they're free.

By MomOf1 from Wilkesboro, NC

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Cheerleader Banquet Centerpieces and Favors

I am responsible for a High School Cheerleader Awards banquet and need ideas for centerpieces and favors. Does anyone have ideas? Thanks.

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Cleaning a Wood Table That Was Left Outside

I have a wood kitchen table that I placed in my covered porch because of lack of space. During its time outside, the table became covered in dirt. I am unsure as to how to clean this before I give it away. Does anyone have any tips?

Jennifer from Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Cleaning a Lacquer Piano

What can I use to clean a lacquer piano?

Leah from NY

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Re-glazing Sink or Bathtub

Has anyone had a bathtub or sink re-glazed? I can't decide what to do re-glaze or replace my bathtub and kitchen sink, both are in good condition but the shine is gone. Does anyone know what the cost to re-glaze would be compared to buying new?

Susie from Maryland

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Looking For Clearance Items From Target

Please help me with finding some items that were on clearance at Target that I cannot locate anywhere. A television Armoire that was a part of their Classic Glamour Furniture Collection, I purchased two end tables from this collection and went back to get the armoire and it was gone, please help.

Jeslyn from Tallahassee

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How to Talk to Mother About Shaving Legs

I am afraid to ask my mom to shave but i hate my legs I have tried to bring up the subject but I keep chickening out. Please help me.

Whitney

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10 Month Old Shitzu With Skin Problem

Our 10 Mo. old shitzu dog has a very bad skin problem around her mouth and between her eyes and nose. It is in the form of knots on her skin. What can be done, without expensive Vet. bills?

Arlena from Leakesville, MS

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Old Hem Line Showing on Altered Drapes

This is my first time on here, and I really hope someone can help. I'm altering a pair of drapes, and the old hem line is now showing, but I can't get the old ironed line mark out.

Look forward to any replies.

Leanne from Melb, Vic

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Cleaning a House with a Long Haired Cat

I have a question about housecleaning. I have a small housecleaning business and I have a question about a particular house. This house is a large, two-story home owned by a retired lady in her late 70's. She and her long haired white calico cat are the only ones living there.

The house has become a terrible problem to clean because of the cat! She got the cat as a kitten a little over a year ago and since then it has been hair, hair, hair! She won't hear of me coming to clean more than every 3 weeks. I charge her $40 just to do the main level of the house. When I do the second story, which is not very often at all, I charge an extra $25.

There is so much cat hair that I have to change dusting rags 3 or 4 times just working downstairs! I know I'm not getting all of it. You never do with a pet like that. Also, today when I got there, she said that when she had her furnace serviced for the winter recently, the furnace man had a fit about how dirty her furnace filter was and I got the blame for that because apparently I'm not keeping things clean enough. UGH!

How would some of you handle this? This woman has lots of odds and ends that always have to be moved. The main level is much more work that the upper, that is until the cat came to live in the house. The cat gets the run of the house and the upstairs I noticed today is covered in white cat hair. She didn't want the upstairs cleaned today so it will really be a mess by the time she wants it done again. I hope this isn't too rambling, but I could really use some suggestions as I am getting very frustrated! Thanks ahead of time for any feedback!

Robin from Washington, Ia

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Who is Responsible For Parents Debt When They Pass Away?

I would like to know who is responsible for paying parents debts when they pass away? These parents have no money, no estate, no assets. Are the debts just forgiven? Do they go after the family? Who pays the bills? Who pays for the funeral? The car and house is in the children's name. Can they take these items? I am asking this for someone who needs to know. They asked me and I have no idea how this works, but I know someone here will. Thanks. By the way, if the law matters, this would be in Michigan.

Ariela from Jax

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Looking For German Torte Recipe

I would like to find a German Torte recipe for a dessert I had in a restaurant lately. It was in a cupcake liner, was tasty like a cheesecake with a gel topping, sliced kiwi and strawberries in the topping. Hope you can help.

Rita from Whitemouth, Man. Canada

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Removing White Heat Stain From Cherry Table Top

How do I remove a white heat stain from a cherry table top?

Bart from Wilmington, NC

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Removing Red Sharpie From Bedspread

I was writing a philosophy paper on my bed, and was using a red sharpie highlighter to highlight my quotes. Without realizing it I misplaced the marker and it sat on my brand new bed spread for a good amount of time. The bed spread is black and white so I can't bleach it, and the stain can't be hidden by turning the bed spread. I already tried a damp cloth which picked up some ink, but spread it out more too. I also tried Barbasol shave cream which helped a little more. I'm afraid to use nail polish remover because it might take the black out of the fabric. Please help!

Hilary Smith from Livonia, MI

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Making Outdoor Decorative Flags For Christmas

Could anyone tell me if they have ever made those Outdoor Decorative Flags (28 inches x 40 inches)? Is there a kit, or where can you buy them cheap? I am looking for some for the upcoming holidays. Our craft stores don't carry the holiday ones. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Liz from Montana

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How Long is Frozen Chicken Good After Defrosting?

How long is chicken good for in the fridge after defrosting?

Stacie from Simpsonville, SC

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Looking For Items For Elementary School Fun Fair

Looking for items for a elementary school fun fair in late October:

stuffed animals
children's books/videos/dvds
wrapped candy
baby food jars

Virginia from Chester Gap, VA

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Buffet Foods For Backyard Wedding

PLEASE HELP! I am having a backyard wedding on Oct. 28,2007. We are on a very tight budget. Anyone have any ideas/ recipes for buffet style foods that are quick easy and CHEAP to make. Fruit and cheese etc. trays are expensive to buy. We are having 28 guest max.

Heather from Ellenwood, GA

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How to Distress Oak Butcher Block Table

I am going to distress an oak butcher block table, It is solid and strong. I don't want to buy a book to learn how. Can anyone give me advice? Thanks

Barbara from Hopewell, NY

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Simple Beauty Advice Using Products Available in Pakistan

Please tell the simplest and easiest way of beauty. I mean with the things which are available for us, please reply.

Komal from Pakistan

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Patching Hole Left From Removal of Ceiling Light

We moved a ceiling light in our Dining room because it was off centered. How do I patch the existing hole in the ceiling.


Jane F. from Statesville, NC

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Black Things in Cat's Ears

My cat has black things in his ears. Are these ear mites?

Linda from New York

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Uses for Liquid Laundry Detergent Caps

The question this morning about laundry powder scoops got me to thinking about the amount of plastic in my house. I use a lot of liquid laundry detergent and dishwasher soap. Can someone tell me a good way to reuse these bottles and caps? I reuse buckets and bowls for storage of small things.

Marty from Houston, TX

Editors Note: Here is a link to what you can do with the bottles: Reusing Plastic Laundry Detergent Bottles

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Dog Itching

How do I stop dog itching?

She looks like she's got some sort of mange or just really bad fleas.

Ken from Houston Texas

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Uses for Laundry Soap Scoops?

Looking for ideas to use those plastic laundry scoops from powered detergent. Any ideas?

hben4me from Dalton, Ga

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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.

More Information:
Click Here: http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_craft.ldml

Kraft Foods Recalls Baker's Premium White Chocolate Baking Squares Because of Possible Health Risk

Kraft Foods has issued a recall in the U.S. for Baker’s Premium White Chocolate Baking Squares (6 oz.) with a UPC Code 0043000252200 and four best when used by dates:

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Campbell Voluntarily Recalls Campbell's Chunky Baked Potato With Cheddar & Bacon Bits

Camden, NJ -- October 4, 2007 -- Campbell Soup Company is voluntarily recalling a limited quantity of 18.8 ounce cans of "Campbell's Chunky" Baked Potato with Cheddar & Bacon Bits because they may contain pieces of hard plastic that present a choking hazard and may cause injury if swallowed.

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Sports Authority Recalls Aluminum Water Bottles Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

          

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Antioch Publishing Recalls Bookmarks and Journals Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Journal

Cool Clip

Bookmark/Bracelet

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Key Chains Recalled by Dollar General Due to Risk of Lead Exposure

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

     

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Kids II Recalls Baby Einstein Color Blocks Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

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CKI Recalls Children's Decorating Sets Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard; Sold Exclusively at Toys "R" Us

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

     

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Dollar General Recalls Tumblers Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

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Eveready Battery Co. Recalls Toy Flashlights Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

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October's Garden To-Do List
By Ellen Brown

Fall is officially here and with it comes a list of important seasonal chores to keep gardeners busy. No matter what zone you garden in, getting fall chores done can depend a lot on the weather. Some zones will get hit hard with rain and other zones will dry out. Just about all zones will end up with cooler temperatures and (hopefully) calmer weather as we transition into November. For those of you in cooler zones, here's wishing you an Indian Summer!

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Crafts Using Neck Ties

Craft tips using old neck ties from the ThriftyFun community.

Watch Washing Instructions And Other Tips

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