June 10, 2008

Daily Thrifty Tips - June 10, 2008


Vol. 7, Num. 113, June 10, 2008 (Read It Online)

It was very difficult to pick contest winners for last week. We had a lot of wonderful entries. Here are the winners...

Photo Contest Winner

Dakota's Garden
By Lisa from Waynesville, NC

Tip Contest Winners

Healthy Living Tips To Keep Weight Off
By Lisa from Halifax, NS

Baby Wipes For Quick Bathroom Cleanup
By Karen from Davis, CA

Recipe Contest Winner

Darlene's Spaghetti Pie
By Darlene from Fairview, PA
Thank you to everyone that took time to submit something.

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:

T-Shirts for a Navy Homecoming

My son, a US sailor, was deployed for 7 months. These are the shirts I made for his nieces and nephews to wear to his homecoming . I used sharpie markers to write Freedom in bubble letters on front then used cheap crayons to color them in. If you iron the colored area covered with a sheet of paper, it will stay in cloth. Under that I put

"Thank My Uncle David And
The US Navy"

The back has a US flag and a list of all the countries he went to.

By Randa from San Marcos TX

T-Shirts For Navy Homecoming

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Scenery: Eyes In The Skies

They told me the weather changes so fast in Montana, to be prepared for any kind - they did not however tell me to watch for the 'eyes in the skies'!

By Joanna from Eastern Montana

Eyes In The Skies

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Misty (Mini Dachshund)

Misty is a one year old mini dachshund. I bought Misty from a breeder in Alabama, and highly recommend her, in May of last year.

She likes to go for walks, play fetch with toys and cuddle on "Mommy and Daddy". Misty is the most loving dog we have ever owned. If you are lying back in a recliner she tries to curl up around your neck and face. She just seem to get close enough to satisfy her!! She's so cute!

By JoAnn from Knoxville, TN

Misty (Mini Dachshund)

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Craft Project: Firecracker Flower

This cute kids craft is perfect for the "Fourth Of July." It has a simple flower shape with a glitter like a bursting firecracker. Make one to hang on the wall, or have a group of children each make one, then hang along the wall with red, white, and blue streamers for decoration!

Firecracker Flower

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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:

Store Remotes Face Down

Always keep your TV or stereo remote controls FACE DOWN when you're not using them. It's a lot easier to wipe off or clean the smooth backs of the remotes than dust in between all of those little buttons all of the time. Saves a lot of time and aggravation. Now don't you wish you would have thought of that sooner?

By Adrienne from Cleveland, OH

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Vinegar for Wallpaper Removal

I decided to finally re-do the kid's bathroom after finding a great bargain at a yard sale for a bathroom set. The kid's bathroom has really ugly wallpaper and border on the wall it was stuck on there good and tight - 2 layers in fact! I filled a spray bottle (new one from Dollar Tree) with equal mix of water and white vinegar. I sprayed the wall paper and used a pan scraper and started peeling. It took the paper off quickly and without much work. I thought I would share this as a safe, environmentally friendly, and best of super cheap - less then $1 for a large bottle of vinegar. I was able to do the entire bathroom for less then $1!

By Betsy from Hernando, MS

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Vinyl Blinds For Plant Markers

I make plant markers by cutting strips of vinyl blinds into 5 inch sections. I write the name and flower color on it using a Sharpie permanent black marker(fine-tip). Then I insert the printed end into the soil next to the plant. When you pull it out, the printing will remain visible indefinitely and you'll always have the name handy. It does not fade, as does the name exposed to the elements. I find a lot of my "recycled" blinds at the curb on garbage-pickup day.

By Anne from Green Bay, WI

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Make a Gift Wishlist for Your Next Holiday

Have you ever wanted to do something or go somewhere so bad, but the cost of it, stopped you from doing so? When it comes around to your next birthday or Mother's Day/Father's Day, where you'll be the recipient of a gift. Give a suggestion or wishlist to the loved ones, co-workers, etc. who'll be giving you your gift. Let them all pitch in and get you a gift certificate for whatever you've been wanting to do, Ex: a massage, a hot air balloon ride, etc. Even if you have to pay the difference if their gift certificate is just a tad short of the needed money, you're still that much closer to achieving your dream.

By Terri from NV

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Perfume Your Hair Dryer

If you use a hair dryer to dry your hair, put a little of your favorite perfume on the back of it, near the air intake, and your hair will take on the scent of the perfume.

Source: Local TV guide

By Cinnamon from British Columbia

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Generic Zyrtec is Not as Good

I just wanted to throw my two cents in about the generic Zyrtec. My husband does real well on Zyrtec, the allergy medicine. Well we tried to save a little money and bought the Walmart brand equate, there are some differences in the ingredients but we didn't think a lot. NO! Please watch the labels, even small difference can make a BIG change. I was able to contact Zyrtec and I will be getting coupons, so we went back to Zyrtec.

By Jamish from Leoti

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Magic Eraser for Removing Ink From Leather

My children's school work got wet and the ink transferred to my light beige leather car seats. I could read the school work on my seats. I went to this site quickly before I left for work. I grabbed a few items suggested: alcohol, hairspray, soap and worked on the spots at red lights. Nothing worked. Went into work and someone told me about MR. CLEAN MAGIC ERASER. It's by the cleaning products in the store. IT WORKED! No fading! I even tried it on a old rust spot on my sink I could never get out, and it worked! I had to submit this today.

By Ami from Shorewood, IL

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Make Your Own Dog Ramps

I have two large dogs weighing 88lbs each. It was difficult for me to put them in my SUV. I searched for inexpensive ramps but, was not willing to pay the price. A search on google for "inexpensive dog ramps" turned up a site that gave my directions for making my own dog steps. They are made from cutting a sheet of styrofoam insulation into rectangular pieces, bigger pieces for the bottom and smaller pieces for the top step. These are glued and taped together until they are the height you need. I covered the sides of mine with "wood" contact paper and the top with astroturf. I put a cabinet door handle on the end to make it easier to pick up. This is so lightweight but strong enough for my dogs to climb up on. They just walk right up into the truck. Didn't even have to train them! Love it!!

By Artlady from Edmond, OK

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Use Your Bicycle For Everything

I drive very little as I have a bicycle with huge baskets on it. Yes, I always wear my bike helmet and wear proper clothing.

In my bicycle, I can carry 40 pounds of cat dry food, groceries, library books, etc. Just about anything! And I'm 70 years old but I limit up to 20 miles round trip.

It saves so much gas and it keeps me in excellent shape.

Joan from Melbourne, FL

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Two Easy Ways To Lose Weight

No need to go to the gym or buy anything: exercise equipment, medicine, harmful powders. You can reduce your weight very easily, just from your available kitchen stuff.

Take 2 teaspoons of pure honey in a glass of warm water (as much warm as will be bearable by you) and a squeeze out of one full lemon into that honey mixed warm water. Drink this daily, each morning after brushing teeth.

Stop eating potatoes and breads made of white flour (maida), If you want to eat bread; eat brown bread (whole wheat bread).

These two are a very sure shot to reduce your weight. This is self searched; I tried it and found it to be a very successful way of reducing weight.

by Dilip from Mumbai, India

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Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

An expert on whales was telling friends about some of the unusual findings he had made.

"For instance," he said, "some whales can communicate at a distance of 300 miles."

"What on earth would one whale say to another 300 miles away?" asked a sarcastic member of the group.

"I'm not absolutely sure," answered the expert, "but it sounds something like 'Heeeeeeey! Can you hear me nowwww!?!

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

New Requests:

Ideas For Float Themed "Everyone Is Family"

Our local community has a parade in the summer with the theme "Everyone Is Family". Any ideas for a simple float? Thanks so much.

Di from Colorado

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Can I Use Peroxide To Get Rid Of Ear Mites?

Can I poor peroxide in my dogs ear to get rid of ear mites?

Kali from Panama City, FL

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Can Eucalyptus Be Rooted in Water?

Can you root eucalyptus in water and then plant in Tennessee? I have a cutting from one that is growing here. Its been in water for a long time but I don't see any roots. Any suggestions?

Hardiness Zone: 7a

Karen from Bolivar, TN

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Can Yorkies Eat Homemade Dog Food?

I have heard that it is not good for Yorkies to eat homemade dog food, made with meat and veggies? Aren't they better for the dog than most dog food? Considering how they make dog food and what they put in it. What is right? Can you please tell me.

Trixie

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Nail Polish Remover Spilled On Phone

I spilled nail polish remover on my phone.

Sally

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Saving Money on Office Supplies

What are you tips for saving money on office supplies? Feel free to post them below.

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Ford Focus: Light On Dash Keeps Flashing

I recently bought a 2008 Ford Focus. Today after putting gas in the car a light started flashing intermittently. It's located on the very bottom left of the dash, it looks like a car with a giant lock symbol. We can't figure out what its for, and how to stop it. It doesn't flash while the car is running, only once its stopped. It's still flashing and the keys out of the ignition.

We double checked and rechecked the fuel lid. My husband has tried everything he can think of and it won't stop flashing. Everything seems to work fine, just this stupid light flashing. Any clue as to what this light means and how to stop it? It was fine up until we put gas in her, Regular as usual. Immediately upon starting the flashing light started.

Martha

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Weeping Cherry Trees Keep Dying

I have planted two different weeping cherry trees, one last year, and one again this year. Both have died within a couple of months after I planted them. Does anyone have a solution to the problem?

Hardiness Zone: 7b

LeeAnn from Little Rock, AR

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Getting a Replacement Canopy for a Garden Swing

Does anyone know where I might find a replacement canopy for an outdoor/freestanding garden swing that's not too expensive? We've had the swing for several years, and it's been a good one, however the canopy has weathered and is becoming threadbare.

I saw a suggestion on another site to check Big Lots but the closest one (next town over) does not have any. I've only found a few online, and they're around $50-80. I know I could probably buy a whole new swing for almost that amount but prefer not to as my swing is still in pretty good condition. I don't want to be wasteful! Any ideas are greatly appreciated!

Leah from Shelbyville, TN

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Uses for Empty Pill Bottles

Does anyone have ideas for using medicine bottles? I have a bucket full of clean, empty plastic pill bottles. Hate to just toss them. Any good ideas out there?

Rainbowgirl from Bogalusa, LA

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Removing Email Addresses From an Email

How can I forward an email without forwarding all the names and email addresses that are included, other than my own? I don't want to take credit for anything, I just don't want the email info of my son and sister to be sent along to the next recipient. Is there a simple way to eliminate those names and addresses and still forward an interesting email?

Debra from Marion, NC

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Rats Are Eating My Tomatoes

I am having problems with rats eating my tomatoes. Is there any thing that I could do to stop them? I am not the only one around here that is having this problem.

Darlene from Carriere

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Recipes for Potato Fudge

I had a recipe for potato fudge that was out of this world and I lost it. It was something someone brought to work and he shared the recipe with me and now I have no idea what I did with it. That was two eons and four states ago. Does anyone have a great recipe for potato fudge?

Susan from WV

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Crochet Patterns For Beginners

Does anyone have crochet patterns to share for a beginner. I am home a lot due to arthritis. I would really appreciate any ideas for ornaments or anything small. May god bless.

Debra from Hampton, TN

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Dehydrating Fruits and Veggies in the Microwave

What do you use to dehydrate fruit and veggies? I'd rather microwave to use less power.

Haley from Centreville, MD

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Gift Ideas for a Long-term Boyfriend

My boyfriend have been going out 1 year on the 17th of this month. I'm not sure what we can do or where we can go to celebrate it, any ideas? Also, I'm not sure on what present to buy him, as the only things he's really into are cars and computer games. I want to buy him something he'll remember forever.

Rachel from UK

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Painting a Space Saver Cabinet

I bought a bathroom space saver a couple of months ago and couldn't figure just why I was not so pleased with it after a couple of weeks. I finally figured out that the dark color (dark brown) made my bathroom appear smaller. It's not that large in the first place. I would like to paint it white, but do not know if I need to prime it first and what kind of paint should I use? (flat, semi-gloss, etc.) Also thought about decoupaging the drawers. What do you think? The bathroom is blue, green and white. Thanks for any and all suggestions.

Linda

Painting a Space Saver Cabinet

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Protecting Martin Babies From Black Birds

Our Purple Martins are being attacked by huge black birds. Is there a way to keep them from stealing the martin babies.

Linda from Saratoga, AR

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Scenting Your Home Naturally

I have recently stopped using all of my favorite scented cleaning products due to all the chemicals and such. I have replaced them with vinegar, baking soda and others. What I miss is the scents. Any ideas on how to scent your home without chemicals, sprays and air fresheners? Thanks to all.

Sue from Troy, MI

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Keeping Rabbits Out Of Yard

I have a friend who just lost an entire trellis of morning glories. Seems a rabbit is making him or herself at home in her yard. Are there any safe ways to repel rabbits without harming them?

Sharon from Clearwater, FL

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Cleaning Baking Dishes Using Peroxide

I used to have a formula to clean the brown stuff off baking dishes. I think it had peroxide in it. I tried a few combos but just can't remember what it was.

Anne from Utah

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Online Resources For Teaching Preschool

I teach preschoolers. I would really appreciate any help with some internet addresses that may help me with handwriting, alphabet, number work etc. Even craft ideas to go with these subjects. I have looked at some, but seem to go back to the same ones all the time, so I would love any other suggestions any one out there has been on. Thanks for your help

Amanda from Malawi, Africa

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Slim Fast Type Powder For Diabetics

I'm diabetic and I would like to know if anyone has a recipe for SLIM FAST type powder that's diabetic friendly. The regular kind has too many carbs and too much sugar in it.

Felicia from LaGrange, Ga

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Putting An SOS Pad On A Handle

I truly love SOS pads for just about everything. But I was wondering why they don't put them on a handle? I have so many jobs that I need to have then on a handle so I can reach places that need cleaning, but just can't get my hands in the spaces. If they could somehow put the pads on a thin handle to reach under stoves, spills under fridgs. etc. It would truly be a blessing to me. I have tried using paint stirs but cant seem to get the right something that makes the pads stay on the paint stir. Any suggestion?

Linda

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Recommendations For Mopping Products

What do you think is the best mop or cleaning product for mopping floors? I find nothing I use is doing well enough. Does anyone know how well the steam mops work?

Split99

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Looking For Potato Pancake Recipe

Does anyone have a recipe for mashed potato pancakes? My mother made the best ones on the planet but she passed away before I could get the recipe. All I remember is that she put in an egg, salt and pepper. I tried adding flour but then the pancakes tasted like flour. She was from England, in case that makes a difference.

Michigandertroll from Port Huron, Michigan

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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:

FDA Warns Consumers Nationwide Not to Eat Certain Types of Raw Red Tomatoes

The Food and Drug Administration is expanding its warning to consumers nationwide that a salmonellosis outbreak has been linked to consumption of certain raw red plum, red Roma, and red round tomatoes, and products containing these raw, red tomatoes.

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My Frugal Life: Living Well

I grew up in a very practical family. However, although we were taught to carry our load and watch the cost of not being frugal, we did not do without.My Frugal Life

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Saving Money on Grilling

It's grilling season! Here is some advice from the ThriftyFun community. Do you have any tips for saving money on grilling food this summer? Post your ideas below.

Saving Money on Grilling

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Saving Money on Summer Fun

Summer time is coming and gas prices are sky high. Here is advice from the ThriftyFun community to keep boredom at bay without spending much money. Do you have any tips for saving money on summer fun? Feel free to post them below.

Saving Money on Summer Fun

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