September 29, 2008

Daily Thrifty Tips - September 29, 2008


Vol. 7, Num. 189, September 29, 2008 (Read It Online)

I hope everyone had a nice weekend.

We have three new Saving Money On... topics for this week. Do you have any advice to share?

Saving Money on Halloween Costumes
Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf630552.tip.html

Saving Money on Cold Medicine
Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf86966319.tip.html

Saving Money on Makeup
Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55714624.tip.html

Thanks for reading,

Susan

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Today's newsletter contains:

Today's Photos:

Today's Tips:

Joke of the Day

New Requests:

More Reading:

Today's Sponsor:

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

Today's Photos:

Craft Tip: Homemade Chipboard

I use magazine inserts to give some of my craft projects stability

Craft Tip: Homemade Chipboard

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Scenery: Raindrop

My daughter borrowed my camera one rainy day, and managed to snap this picture just as a raindrop hit a puddle of water.

By Carole from Locust Fork, Alabama

Raindrop

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Craft: Recycled Paper Pyramid

I opened a pen package today and was going to save the white board inside for signs, then realized they had little folds in the ends and the middle. Curiosity took over and I folded them, to find that they make a perfect little pyramid!

So, here are some possible uses that I thought of, and you can all get those wheels spinning and go from there...

Before you fold and tape it, use a darning needle and string some string through the very center of the middle line, tying a knot at the end. Then, turn it over and put stickers of whatever you like, or photos of celebrities, kids, friends, dogs, cats, etc on the middle two sections. Fold it and tape it and hang it from a lamp edge or some place high. If you get several, or make a pattern out of the original and make a bunch out of poster board, you can have a neat mobile!

It's also cool for sitting on your computer top with photos on it.

Use it to hold up a recipe card on top of the box.

Use it for a temporary business card holder at a show or bazaar.

Cut it in half length wise and decorate each one as a bell for ornaments.

Enjoy!!

By Sandra from Salem OR

Recycled Paper Pyramid

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Craft: Crackled Cupboard

This old cupboard was in the basement when I bought my house. I thought it had charm because it was made of car siding which happens to be pretty much in vogue. It was a dull brown so I set to revamping it. I decided to crackle it, using hide glue. (Crackling in this manner is an inexact way so you might like to use a kit or crackle medium instead of the glue) It now it has a place in my kitchen by my dining set. I love it now!

By Elaine from Iowa

Refurbished Cupboard

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Honey (Poodle Mix)

Honey is almost 2 years old. He is a Poodle and mix of shihtzu or...? I got him free from someone selling pups for $900.00. He was free because he was 8 weeks old and had been abused. He was missing a tooth (had been kicked).

He loves to charm the neighbors. He has one who buys him bananas which he LOVES. He plays endlessly with his squeaky ape whose tongue rolls out. Honey can make the ape squeak by nosing its bottom! He walks like he is in a parade.

He was my mom's dog and she loved him and was really gentle with him so he thinks he is a big baby. He was so pitiful when she died (as I) and cheered up when he met Joann our wonderful neighbor and friend. He learned to love veggies, soft carrots and green beans, with his food. I buy canned carrots with no sugar for his treats and bananas.

By Annie from Columbia, MO

Honey (Poodle Mix)

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Contests:

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

Today's Tips:

Finding Your Luggage When Traveling

Making your luggage easy to identify quickly saves time at the airline baggage carousel. I use a brightly coloured tape available at art or office supply stores, and create an 8 inch tall initial and stick it to my luggage. Easy to pick out, even from a distance.

We did this on our last trip. A time saver.

Source: My friend.

By Raymonde from North Bay, Ontario

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Using Cocoa Butter as a Makeup Remover

I use a simple routine for washing my face that has saved me a fortune in costly creams or soaps. I buy an inexpensive large cocoa butter lotion from the chain store to remove all of my makeup. I pull back my hair, smooth it all over in circular motions and always use the soft baby washcloths to remove and rinse. I love the way it makes my skin so soft and it does a wonderful job removing makeup and mascara.

By Pattie from Bridgton, ME

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Holiday Shopping: One Gift at a Time

It gets so hectic during the holidays with shopping, cooking, and avoiding the flu like the plague, so during the year I shop one gift at a time. My 3 children help wrap and we put a homemade tag or handcrafted card on the package and we stow it away until Christmas. We shop at the dollar store, thrift stores, and recycle websites. We put little gift baskets together for families instead of individuals. It has saved us hundreds of dollars, and we have more time to participate at church, and free holiday happenings in our community.

By Seneka from Redondo Beach

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Homemade Yarn Canister

I have always had a problem with yarn staying put when I am knitting and crocheting. I thought it was silly to purchase the already made yarn canisters with the hole in the top, so I made my own with a large potato salad container.

First, I put a hole in the top so that the yarn would easily slide through it. Then I decorated mine with yarn. I wrapped the yarn from the bottom to the top and secured it with a touch of hot glue. Then I decorated the lid with the same yarn in spirals. Now I have my very own frugal yarn canister and it only cost me a bit of yarn. Very easy and helpful!

By Maureen from Silver Spring Township, PA

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Product Review: Petstages Chewing Orka Jack

I just wanted to mention a pet toy that was worth every inch of what I paid for it. It's the Orka Jack by Petstages, purchased at a local Petco store. It's the only toy I can twist out of my 60 pound dog's mouth to throw. Otherwise, I have to wait for him to give up the toy before I can throw it. Very sturdy and because it's shaped like a jack, it bounces erratically, which adds to the fun of the unexpected. He's a heavy chewer and so far hasn't made a dent in it. We've had it about 2 weeks and it looks as good as new (except for the rope which has become a tad soiled, but still intact). This is one of those dog toys that should be considered a classic.

Source: http://www.petco.com/product/14802/Petstages-Chewing-Orka-Jack-with-Rope.aspx

By Holly from Richardson, TX

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Keeping Foods Cold Without Electricity

We were 4 days in this situation this week due to Hurricane Ike, and 5 days due to Hurricane Gustav last week. First of all, know what you want from the fridge, retrieve it quickly, and close the door to keep the cold in. Secondly, make room on the middle shelf of your fridge to put a plastic container. I used a basin that came from my husband's last trip to the hospital, but you could use a gallon ice cream container or just a large mixing bowl. Fill it with ice cubes, and as the ice melts, replenish it. Save the water from the melted cubes to put in your toilet tank if you also have no water. This will enable you to flush the toilet. The ice kept my fridge at 40 degrees for the entire 4 days, so I didn't have any food spoilage.

By Harlean from Arkansas

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Douche for Pet Stain Odor

To Remove dog/cat urine from carpets, use Masingill's Vinagar and Water Douche. Pour solution on the spot and with a towel using a circular motion (wrap towel around your fist, place fist on spot as if to punch and twist) continue doing this until liquid is dried up and the odor will be gone. My aunt had 5 pesky little wiener dogs who had weak bladders, her home never smelled bad.

By Teresa from Boulder City, NV

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"Clean Out The Fridge" Dinner

Have a "clean out the fridge" meal. Go through your cupboards, fridge and freezer and combine foods. I use old Salsa on noodles with left over cheese. This cleans out your supplies and rotates your cupboards.

By Lisa from WNY

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Egg Salad for Breakfast or Lunch

For easy breakfasts, I prepare egg salad that can be eaten for breakfast or lunch, or deviled eggs.

By Kristy from Denver, CO

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Eating Beets for Iron Before Giving Blood

I have a tip that might be a bit weird but works. I give blood a lot, but sometimes my iron is not up to par. So instead of going there and coming home because of iron too low, I bought a small can of red beets with the juice and put it in the fridge overnight.

On the morning of, I drank the juice, it was a bit bitter but worked. Next time I think I will put some sugar in it before I drink it. Sometimes women's iron is low because of hormones, etc. and I got tired of being sent home because of low iron.

By Barbara from Shoemakersville, PA

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

I have five siblings, three sisters and two brothers.

One night I was chatting with my Mom about how she had changed as a mother from the first child to the last.

She told me she had mellowed a lot over the years:

"When your oldest sister coughed or sneezed, I called the ambulance.

When your youngest brother swallowed a dime, I just told him it was coming out of his allowance."

Read More Jokes Here: http://webby.com/humor

New Requests:

Skunk Spray Stained Vehicle Paint

My car was sprayed by a skunk and it visibly stained the paint. Any ideas on how to remove the stain? I have tried a finish restorer and a commercial grade tar and road grime cleaner.

Paul from Avon, MN

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What Breed Is My Dog?

Can anyone help me identify my dog's breed? He is 7 months old and 60 lbs, has a very curly tail. He does not bark much, but when he does it is very deep and loud. He loves children. I adopted him through a rescue group and their take on his breeding may or may not be true.
I would appreciate anyone thoughts on this.

Susan from Massachusetts

What Breed Is My Dog?

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Blocking Calls On A Cell Phone

Is there a way to block a caller on a cell phone? I tried calling my cell company and I can't seem to get an agent who speaks english! I've had this cell number for several years, but lately a girl keeps calling it asking for a guy we don't know. She calls several times a day. I ignore them, but she also leaves messages on the voicemail as well.

April from NW Missouri

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Uses For Broken Christmas Light Strands

Let's pretend the you have a ton of non-working strands of Christmas lights. You tried to fix them by replacing the bulbs but they still aren't working. What would you do with them?

I have a number of stands of lights that didn't make it past last Christmas. I would like to find some use for the bulbs or the wires beyond just keeping them around and using the working bulbs to replace others. Any ideas?

Corene from Neenah, WI

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Keeping Sage Leaves For Cooking

I have a sage plant that died and the leaves have dried up. They smell gloriously when crumbled. I'd like to keep the leaves for cooking, but am not sure as how to go about it. I feel that they should be disinfected somehow, but how do you do this to dried up leaves still on a plant in the ground?

Holly from Richardson, TX

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Making A Castle Model For School

My daughter (7 yrs old) has to make a 3d castle for school. Does anyone have any ideas on how to make this? Its got to have a moat and portcullis and a chapel and dungeon etc (ugh! I'm not very creative!) Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Michelle from Corinth, TX

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Theme Ideas For Church "Trunk or Treat"

We are having a "Trunk or Treat" at our church and I am in need of a cute theme to go by! I want it to be so my family can dress up like the theme!

Debra from Savannah, GA

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Boyfriend's 30th Birthday Party

My boyfriend's 30th birthday is in January. He is the most genuine, sweetest person, always ready to help out anyone. He deserves a great party and at times has hinted he wants a party with all his friends and family (100+). I need help in how to achieve all this with a small budget.

My house will not accommodate everyone one so I am considering renting the local Legion Hall, but how can I make it extra special? Any thoughts or ideas will greatly help. He is into cars, not a sports guy, and just likes having a good time. Thanks

Jessica from New Jersey

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Cowgirl Photo Centerpieces

I need an idea for my daughter's cowgirl party for centerpieces that display a photo. I have 7 tables so I am looking for something cheap.

Nicole

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Displaying Cupcakes at a Party

Does anyone have a cheap idea for displaying cupcakes at a child's birthday?

Nicole

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Phantom Door Locking

I have a 2007 GMC Envoy. The dealer's solution to phantom door locking has been to disconnect the mechanical linkage to the inside door lever. I'm concern with the possibility of needing to exit the locked drivers door in an emergency, having lost electrical power. I'm unsuccessful in dealing with GMC. Any advice?

Bob

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Baking Pan for Cooking a Turkey

What kind of baking pan should I get for a turkey? I'm interested in knowing what size would be best as well as what material/brand would be best.

Bethany from SC

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Tree Damaged During Transplanting

I am transplanting a London Plane tree that is approx. 2-3 yrs. old. When digging it up part of the trunk was damaged including removal of some bark and some of the side roots. What can be done to help this tree survive? Thanks.

Hardiness Zone: 5b

Crystal from Deer Park, WA

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Transplanting Montauk Daisies

I am transplanting Montauk Daisies. Any ideas as to amending the soil naturally? Our area is grandular, stone, sand etc. Out of the 8 plants I've transplanted only 2 look healthy, the others are very droopy. Any help will be appreciated!

Hardiness Zone: 5b

Gen from New England

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Air Mattresses Recommendations and Alternatives

My son in Houston, TX still has no electric power in his apt. because of Hurricane Ike. He's now sleeping on a friend's floor because the power and air conditioning have been turned on there. A sleeping bag on top of blankets isn't thick enough.

Do you have any air mattress recommendations or alternate suggestions? I would prefer something that can be stored easily. Local stores are all out of this type of equipment, so I am planning on shipping it.

Holly from Richardson, TX

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Mildew On Roses

How do you get rid of mildew on roses?

Mary from CA

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Becoming Even More Frugal

I am in a pickle here. I already do so much to be frugal, water down the dish soap, reuse the jars and plastic tubs, wash in cold, turn of he lights all kinds of stuff. But due to an unforeseen situation making a lot less money than I planned and there are 2 of us and children on the weekend. Any frugal tips would be appreciated. Thanks.

Kathleen from Export, PA

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Hair Is Frizzy At Roots

My hair has become frizzy right at the roots not at the ends over the last few years. It looks like I have a fine layer of frizz all over the top. Its embarrassing and nothing I have tried for frizzy hair works. Not even the expensive products. Ii have med. long hair, its blonde and fine. Please help me, I'm desperate!

Liz from Dallas, Texas

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Argentina Red Tabu Scented Lipstick

I would like to buy a tube of Argentina Red Tabu scented lipstick. I had 1 tube years ago that I bought in Springfield, Mo at a Dept store but have not seen any since then. Please tell me where it is available online or where you know I can call to get it! Thanks!

melody_yesterday from Sedalia, Mo

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Making Pepper Steak

I would like to learn how to make pepper steak.

ohdawn from Richmond, VA

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Camping with Young Children

I am planning a month long camping trip through several different states. I have twins that will be close to 4 by then. Any tips on keeping it cheap? And sane?

Michelle from Huntsville, TX

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Fresh Choice Style Ginger Carrot Soup

I'm looking for a recipe for Ginger Carrot soup. We really enjoy the one served occasionally at Fresh Choice.

jng6 from CA

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Gum on a Police Uniform

How do you get gum out of a police uniform shirts. I washed and dried them and I forgot I had gum in the pockets.

Sandy from Metolius, OR

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Mushrooms Growing On Tree Roots

How do I get rid of the mushroom fungi growing on all the ground roots of our fruitless pear tree?

Hardiness Zone: 9b

Debbie from San Juaquin Valley, Calif.

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Sewing Christmas Gift Ideas For Beginner

Does anyone have ideas for sewing Christmas gifts that would be suitable for a beginner? Thanks very much and God Bless!

Debra from Hampton, Tenn

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Cat Urine On New Carpet

How do I clean cat urine on a new carpet?

Cindy from MN

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Pear Preserves

Please tell me why pears are not sold as preserves, jam or any other form of spread in the grocery store.

Steward from Ellicott City, Md

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Garage Door Not Opening Properly

Our garage door will only go about half way up then stop. We can use the button on the wall in the garage, but you have to stand there and hold it in rather than just push it and go. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what we can try to fix this? Thanks!

Klutzymama from Indiana

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Temporary Computer Desk

I need a computer stand but I don't want to buy one because I will be given a nice computer cabinet in a few months. Until then do you have any frugal ideas as to what I can use to sit my desktop computer on in the living room?

Onesummer

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Sewer Smell Coming from a Faucet

What causes sewer water smell when you turn on water in upstairs bathrooms?

Darla

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Today's Sponsor:

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

More Reading:

Craft Supplies Falling Into Your Yard
By Kelly Ann Butterbaugh

As the autumn months pass by, many of our yards are filling with free craft supplies. Be sure to take advantage of the plentiful offerings of nature. Your kids will thank you for it.

Craft Supplies Falling Into Your Yard

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How To Make Your Own Sun Dried Tomatoes
By Ellen Brown

Sun dried tomatoes are one of the most useful gourmet ingredients for cooking. They are also expensive. If you grow or pick your own (or even if you buy them) sun drying them yourself is easy to do at home.

How To Make Your Own Sun Dried Tomatoes

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