|
|
|
Hello,
We have about 27 more photos to publish from the last photo contest. We will continue to work through those and will announce the winners when we get done. We have finished publishing all the tip entries so we hope to announce the tip contest winners soon. We just need to sit down and pick winners.
So far, we haven't received very many entries to our new tip and photo contests. Here are links for more information about the contests.
Tip Contest!
http://www.thriftyfun.com/contest.ldml
Photo Contest!
http://www.thriftyfun.com/photo_contest.ldml
Thanks for reading,
Susan
Frugal solutions to everyday problems: Submit a request...
http://www.thriftyfun.com/add.ldml
Today's newsletter contains:
Today's Photos:
Today's Tips:
New Requests:
More Reading:
Search ThriftyFun Using Google: Click Here
Today's Sponsors
Lots of great art supplies at DickBlick.com
http://www.thriftyfun.com/thriftylinks/tf241337_tfl.html
Today's Photos
This is Banky and my three month old daughter McKinnley. Banky is a 2 year old Jack Russell Terrier. My Husband bought her for me as an "I love you" gift. Banky enjoys sleeping, fetch and chasing McKinnley around the house.
By Katie Williams
Post Feedback: Click Here
Wedding Cake for Adorable Pigs
My friend made a farm wedding for two adorable pigs. I made the wedding cake.
It was white cake and vanilla icing. I started by making a 10 inch cake and a 8 inch cake for the top. After cooling for one hour, I made butter cream icing. I put the bottom cake on a 12 inch round cardboard covered with foil and iced the cake. Then I did the same for the top of the cake using the same size of the cake for the cardboard.
I iced the cake and carefully layed it on top of the bottom cake, in between icing the cake. I put the cake in the refrigerator so that the icing can stay firm and not melt away from the humidity. I then took a break, then I started decorating the bottom of the cake with tip 2D and the bottom of the top and on the top of the cake. I then used tip 1 for the dots, of course I took another break, and I finished the cake by adding the wedding couple on top and little animals at the bottom.
The cake was the main attraction of the party. HOORAY!
By Maria Lozano
Post Feedback: Click Here
Juice Pouch Lunch Bag
By Stella Rivet
This lunch bag is easy to make and durable. It makes great use of Kool-Jammer or Capri Sun pouches.
View Project: Click Here
This tip was previously published as a thrifty tip.
Because of our work schedules, my husband usually gets our 2 year old son dressed in the morning. He's a wonderful father, but heaven help him, cannot put matching outfits together very well! To make things easier, I made up a set of hangers with the days of the week on them. On Sundays, I go through my son's closet and put outfits together, then hang one on each "day of the week" hanger. On weeknights, I take out the outfit for the next day and hang it on a hook that's next to our son's changing table. That way, my husband has an outfit all set to go in the morning, and I can rest assured that my son won't be going out in public looking like he chose his outfit himself!
By Lisa
Post Feedback: Click Here
Today's Tips
Have a craft exchange party. Bring anything that you haven't used for six months or more to trade with friends and family.
By Anne
Post Feedback: Click Here
What I Learned from Hurricane Katrina
Watching sad story after sad story taught me something about organizing my belongings and getting ready for a natural (or manmade disaster.)
1. Keep all your prescription medications in one area (We keep ours in a wicker basket near the coffee maker-so we take every morning) In the event of a disaster and we have to leave in a hurry-all we have to do is pickup the wicker basket
2. Make a copy of ALL Important papers and store them on a CD. Include your SS card, insurance papers, and birth certificates. If you have the fingerprints of your kids, store those images as well. Put it in a safe place (Car glove box?) and grab it if you have to leave in a hurry.
3. Make sure you have batteries recharged.
4. When ever you go to bed make sure you have a pair of shoes handy (We live in a tornado area and if we have to head for the basement we know we can slip into a pair of shoes easily.
5. Keep some cash on hand in a safe place (we keep at lease $50-100 in a safe but accessible place) It might be worthwhile to store it with the CD of your important papers
6. Don't run out of staples like bottled water, diapers, and canned soups. I always make sure I have a pantry stocked in the event of an emergency.
7. Put stuff where it belongs (Can opener, dog leash, car keys, mobile phone) That way in an emergency you can react and not lose precious minutes if you have to move quickly.
8. Make everyone responsible for something ahead of time so you don't waste precious minutes making decisions that could cost you your life
9. Lastly, remember is it only STUFF and it is replaceable. Your lives are the only real things worth saving.
By Diana Maslowski
Post Feedback: Click Here
We added some glossary terms to our database yesterday and forgot to filter them out of the RSS feed. I apologize to all the RSS feed users that got the glossary feed. If you refresh your RSS feed, it should be fine now. Thank you to all the RSS feed users that contacted us and thank you for using our RSS feed. We had no idea we had this many RSS users. We certainly will be more careful in the future. For people who are interested in subscribing to our RSS feed you can find more information here:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/rss.html
Post Feedback: Click Here
Tips for saving money on olives. Post your ideas.
Instead of buying those expensive little cans of sliced and chopped olives, buy a large can, slice or chop what you need and put the rest in a jar with the juice. They will last in the refrigerator for a long time. 1 large can usually equals 3 or 4 small cans for close to the same price.
Post Feedback: Click Here
Tips for storing and organizing cookie sheets. Post your ideas.
Here's an economical way to organize cookie sheets or anything that can stand on its side. Go to your local builders supply and get some unfinished corner molding. It usually comes in 8' lengths, so have the store employee cut it into 12" sections, or whatever length you prefer. When you are ready to install these, simply use a couple of finishing nails to hold them in place on a lower section of your cabinets, and in 10 minutes, you can have eight wonderful organizers for about $2.00.
By Melna
Post Feedback: Click Here
Saving Money on Halloween Costumes
Tips for saving money on Halloween Costumes. Post your ideas.
Finding Inexpensive Halloween Costumes
As fast as children grow, they outgrow their clothes fast, usually meaning less money in your wallet. Before this Halloween, either shop for gently used Halloween costumes either at yard sales, or if you don't have the time or the gas to run all over searching, go to your local thrift stores before buying a costume at a retail store. It is much cheaper than renting one or buying one. You also can go to a store like "Savers" and get items inexpensive enough to make your own costumes.
For most thrift stores or stores like "Savers", the proceeds go to a charity like the American Red Cross, for example. Being thrifty to me, doesn't mean "cheap" as some family members have called me, it means saving money that I can use elsewhere!
By Terri
Post Feedback: Click Here
Marinade for Making Beef Chuck Blade Tender
Even the most "not so tender" cut of meat, such as beef chuck blade can cook so tender you would not know it's chuck. The secret is to marinate the beef chuck over night. Use lee kum kee chicken marinade teriyaki (or similar brand) along with green, orange, yellow, and red bell peppers, one medium white onion, lemon herb, and steak seasoning. Cook with medium-low heat on stove for about 30 to 45 min. Make sure to marinate in a closed container.
By Esther
Post Feedback: Click Here
Tips for saving money on Mascara. Post your ideas.
To save money, from having to purchase mascara frequently, don't push your brush for your bottled mascara in and out repeatedly, trying to get more or less on it. Each time you do so, it dries it out more. Use what's on the brush the first time you pull the brush out.
By Terri
Post Feedback: Click Here
http://www.thriftyfun.com/board.html
New Contest - More Prizes
We are giving away 17 $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 October 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.
http://webby.com/humor
Do you publish a newsletter? Sign up for our Tip Syndication:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/syndication.html
New Requests
I was wondering if someone could tell me how to get rid of fruitflies? It has to be safe for people and animals. I have tried vinegar and dish soap. It is working some but there seems to be more than it is killing.
Thanks in advance,
Ruth
Post Feedback: Click Here
Inexpensive Craft Give Ideas For Men
I'm looking for inexpensive crafted gift ideas for men.
Thanks!
Candace from Utah
Post Feedback: Click Here
I have a white, two door refrigerator with textured handles. They look horrible! I have tried Magic Eraser to no avail! Does anyone have a successful cleaning method? I sure would appreciate any help!
Mitzi
Post Feedback: Click Here
I was wondering if anyone knows how to make thier own shampoo?
Heather
Post Feedback: Click Here
My computer is a magnet for spyware and adware. Frankly, I wouldn't mind it if it wasn't slowing down my computer and locking it up. This is not a symbiotic relationship.
I run and update (every few days) Microsoft's Beta for Spyware, Ad-Aware and SBC Yahoo anti spyware. Spyware Blaster is running in the background. I discontinued Spybot Search because it kept hanging up my computer, although it was very effective for a long time prior to that at finding spyware and adware.
Seems to be a case of locking the barn door after the horse is out. I'd rather stop the spyware than have to go looking for it to clean it up and out after the fact.
I have the cookies set at 'ask for permission', the third party cookies rejected, medium security for internet sites, the pop-up blocker on and I don't really know what else to do. Help!
Holly
Post Feedback: Click Here
I have several silk flower arrangments that have "dust bunnies" growing on them. What is the best way to clean these? Some are arranged in "swags" and I cannot figure out how to get the dust off!
TIA!
Cookiepom
Post Feedback: Click Here
Singer Tiny Serger Sewing Machine Advice
I'm considering buying a used Singer Tiny Serger Sewing Machine and want some feedback from anyone who has used this machine. I'm completely ignorant about serging and want to know if this machine can be used to shorten T-shirts and leave them with a smooth hem the way they were before. Any other hints about serging also appreciated. Thanks.
Seagrape
Post Feedback: Click Here
About a year ago, I started noticing my "clean" clothes had a faint smell of "dirty laundry". I first noticed it while on a trip, so I attributed the problem to clothes being packed in a suitcase. But the problem has gotten worse.
I have tried baking soda in the wash, vinegar in the rinse, Febreze, and purchasing new luggage. The clothes smell fresh and clean after washing and drying, but after hanging in the closet for a while, the smell returns. Leaving them folded in a basket for a few days I sometimes notice it, and certainly packing for a trip seems to magnify the problem.
I have a Maytag Neptune (the model after all the problems had been solved), and use Tide HE or Cheer HE. Maytag said I had a buildup of detergent in the clothes, and suggested running them through a cycle with just vinegar (which I have done many times).
While I like fresh smelling detergents and fabric softeners, I don't want to just cover up smells that are remaining in my clothes. I want to know they are really clean, and all the dirt, body oils, perfumes, deodorants, etc. are out of the clothes. I don't perspire a great deal, and work in an office, so my clothes don't get particularly grimy or smelly. Any suggestions?
Queen Bunny
Post Feedback: Click Here
I bought a cast iron pot with cover at a garage sale. I have scraped and sanded with sandpaper several times. But, I forgot how to season it for use. Would appreciate any help.
Thanks,
Annette from Maine
Post Feedback: Click Here
Mop vs. Swifter for Hardwood Floors
Can anyone tell me which is best for washing hardwood floors: a mop or one of those swifter things. I'm dreading tackling them as they are new and I don't want streaks.
Thanks a lot.
Irishbernie
Post Feedback: Click Here
Today we visted Baja Express, and I think I am in LOVE! Does anyone have a copycat recipe for Salsa Baja? It is a thin brown salsa (not at all hot) that has fresh tomato, onion, and cilantro. It almost tastes like it has coffee in it, but the waitress said it is just roasted tomatoes. Don't know what it is, but it is YUMMY!
Margie Minard
Post Feedback: Click Here
How to remove white pine sap from a newly stained, cedar deck?
John
Post Feedback: Click Here
How do I remove paint stains from cement?
I was painting my kitchen chairs outside and put newspapers around so the paint wouldn't stain the cement but there are a few drops here and there. Is there something that can take it out?
Lydia
Post Feedback: Click Here
I went to the doctor yesterday because I have been feeling lightheaded and my vision feels blurry. She checked my blood sugar and it was 132 and said it was pretty high. I had eaten pizza a couple hours before my appointment and she said it is possible that the pizza caused my levels to go up. She wants me to come back in if I still feel these symptoms. Anyone have Diabetes or any thoughts? It freaks me out a bit. I am 27 and not overweight (overweight is a big symptom, sometimes).
TexasTeacher
Post Feedback: Click Here
How do you remove decals that were added to a wooden bread box and a wooden potato box over 20 years ago? They really have stayed on. No sealer, etc was brushed over them. I want to put on new decals as these are faded.
Sherrye from Georgia
Post Feedback: Click Here
Preparing a Child for New Sibling
My husband and I will be welcoming our second child in October. Our son will be 23 months at that time. I've been a stay at home mom since he was born so he hasn't spent very much time without me. Does anyone have any tips on making this transition easier on him? I thought about putting together some goodie bags for him. Any tips or info would be great!
Thanks,
Amanda
Post Feedback: Click Here
My 10-year-old daughter complains that her feet sweating. Yes, it's summer, but she says that they are sweaty in sandles too. Do you have any solutions - preferably not using over the counter products. I try to stay away from chemicals. I know I've read about soaking feet in tea (?) but I'm not trying to get rid of smell as much as the sweat.
Thanks.
Ann
Post Feedback: Click Here
I'm looking for a chicken pot pie recipe with noodles in it for my grandson. Any help is appreciated.
Teresa Pederson
Post Feedback: Click Here
What can I do to get rid of the bees in my front yard, that are in my trumpet vine bush? I can't see if they have a hive but there are millions and I thnik they are honey bees. They only have been there about 1 week.
Thanks!
lindaD.
Post Feedback: Click Here
Grants for Low Income Seniors?
I am 74 years old and live on limited income with no savings. I would like to know if there are any grants out there I can apply for. I will be grateful if you can help me. Thanks
Post Feedback: Click Here
I was wondering if anyone knows how to make thier own conditioner?
Heather
Post Feedback: Click Here
Looking for a frugal solution to an everyday problem? Submit your request here: Click Here
Today's Sponsors
Lots of great art supplies at DickBlick.com
http://www.thriftyfun.com/thriftylinks/tf241337_tfl.html
More Reading:
Save Energy While Keeping Your Cool
By Ellen Brown
During the dog days of summer, we expend considerable amounts of energy (and dollars) trying to keep our homes cool. Here are 12 no-cost or low-cost ways to save energy while keeping cool this summer.
Read More: Click Here
Desert-Safe Treat Recipes For Troops Overseas
These treats were put out by Nestle about a year ago and have been tested in their kitchen and do meet the required Middle East guidelines as well as the U. S. postal guidelines.
Read More: Click Here
Here's a great .pdf file with information about emergency preparedness, preparing your house, surviving during and after an emergency and a check list of things you will need. It is from the Seattle Times. Download Emergency Preparedness PDF
Read More: Click Here
Let others know that you like this Ezine:
Vote For the Daily Thrifty Tips
More Stuff
Coupon Swap!
Swap coupons with other ThriftyFun.com users:
Seed Swap!
Swap seeds with other ThriftyFun.com users:
Tip Contest!
Submit a tip and enter our contest.
Submit a Request
Frugal solutions to everyday problems.
Search ThriftyFun!
Use Google technology to search ThriftyFun.
Like ThriftyFun on Facebook
