Daily Thirfty Tips - September 11, 2008

We received a very nice mention in the Reader's Digest. It's a great article about a family trying to cut back expenses for a month. You can read it here:

http://www.rd.com/advice-and-know-how/hochman-family-cuts-spend...

If you have a story about cutting back and what you learned, feel free to submit it as a My Frugal Life essay. You can do so here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_myfrugallife.ldml

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: Shape Art

Besides using their fingers or a paint brush, give kids another method of painting. Put a little bit of paint on a plate and use items with different shapes to make a masterpiece. In this picture, my daughter used a toilet paper tube and a plastic fruit cup to make the shapes on the paper. We also made another paper with triangle shapes. We used different sizes of cut cardstock paper folded in three and taped together to make triangles. See what other shapes you can find around your house to use. I'm sure you can find squares, rectangles, etc.

I like to frame some of the artwork my daughter makes, but when you get too much, I have another fun idea. Cut out samples and attach to blank cards to send to family and friends as greeting cards, thank you notes, etc.

By Jayme from Harrisonburg, VA

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Dovely (Dove)

This is Dovely (a cross of Dove and Lovely). She is five years old and a Dove. After visiting a friend, I heard this cooing sound come from the laundry room. When I asked my friend what the sound was, my friend said "oh that's bird".

I went into the laundry room and there sat bird in a very small cage, the room was dark and there weren't even windows. I asked my friend if I could have that bird. My friend said "well sure, she doesn't even lay eggs you know". I took bird home, my husband took one look at her, and he said "she is Dovley".

Dovley lays at least four eggs a year for us. I think she's happy in a big cage, a room with many windows and a new home filled with love for children, friends and animals. We love to listen to her coos. She is Dovley.

Dovely likes to walk around the house, she follows me while I am in the kitchen working. Dovely also likes to climb on my husband and do what looks like kisses on his cheek. (We like to think that she kisses him.)

Many friends have said that we were nice to adopt Dovely. We say that Dovely is nice to come live with us and give us her beautiful songs. We use Dovely's eggs to add to fallen birds nest's and give them to friends and family as Christmas tree ornaments.

By Maryjo from Salem

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Craft Project: Embellished Frame

This craft project would make a great, inexpensive gift for family members and friends. My daughter made this personalized one in about an hour.

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Rainy Day Paint Activity

Just because it's raining doesn't mean you can't take the kids outside to play. Slap on a raincoat and boots and head outside. Put some food coloring or paint on a paper plate and hold it in the rain. Watch how the wet splatter mixes the colors. Also a good way to talk about mixing colors to make new colors.

By Jayme from Harrisonburg, VA

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Craft: Novelty Christmas Gift Ideas

I love to pick up novelty things when I go to craft shows, for stocking stuffers and such. I bought these last year and wanted to pass them onto my TF Family. If you are thinking of some kind of fund raiser or the kids want to make and sell some things for Christmas money, these are just cute and very cheap to make.

Some others that I don't have photos of would be to take some toasty oat cereal and some fruity ring cereals and put five or six in a small bag, make a cute hang tag and stick a magnet on the back and call them "Donut Seeds and Frosted Donut Seeds", cute huh?

Another I like is taking a clothes pin, gluing a washer to it and tagging it "The Worlds Cheapest Washer and Dryer", another big seller.

The local people sell them for $.50 or 3/$1.00 and everyone is happy. The ones I included are easy to make.

The snowman poop is just a packing peanut glued to a piece of index card that is cut into 1/6 pieces and I punched a hole in it. Yes, this one is mine.

The Redneck Quarter is of course, 3 pennies and a .22 bullet. You decide if you want the kids to be involved in this one.

The little block you can get from any Walmart or craft shop in bags. Then, just put it in the little bags and print out the "instructions" in word and there you are!

The cow seeds can be black and white, brown and white, or mixed.

The cheapest by far is the Penny Pincher. I get 24 clothes pins for $1.00 at the dollar tree, so they come out to be 4 cents each and then the penny. You are investing 5 cents and getting back at least 33 cents.

Everyone loves magnets, so use your imagination and you can make some cool cash this season! If nothing else, they are great for party favors, stocking stuffers and more. Enjoy!

By Sandra from Salem, OR

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Use Eyeshadow Applicators For Concealer

Here is a tip I came upon by accident :) I have so many eyeshadow applicators (the sponge type) that I don't use because I use brushes instead. You know what?! They are EXCELLENT for patting on concealer! You can pat it on under your eyes on a blemish or discoloration and the little sponge applicator is just the right size!! Now I keep all of my clean ones in a little ziploc to keep them handy. They are also useful for patting on ointment, etc.

By Carol from Lancaster, PA

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Use Extra Hooks In The Laundry Room

On the wall in my laundry room, I put some of the removable 3M Command hooks, the large size. I keep hangers on them so when I pull laundry out of the dryer, I can hang it up right away.

By Pam from Port Allen, LA

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Link: Free Donations To The Animal Rescue Site

Hey everyone, the Animal Rescue Site needs your help! Please go to this link and click on "Click Here to Give - It's FREE!" Each time you click, they receive money to pay for pet food! I bookmark mine and click on it several times a day.

• http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=3

Thanks to everyone,
Jim in Jax

Editor's Note: I would also recommend that pet and animal lovers consider donating money, time or supplies to your local humane society, animal shelters and/or rescue groups in your area.

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Product Recall: Four Paws Pimple Ball Dog Toy

Product Recall: Four Paws Pimple Ball

There is a defect in the Four Paws Pimple Ball with Bell, which can cause the dog's tongue to be sucked into the ball and seriously injured. One dog had to have his tongue amputated!

The website also has photos of the balls if you look around a little.

• http://www.fourpaws.com/news/press-room/four-paws-rough-rugged-pimple-ball-with-bell.htm

Many thanks,

Patty

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Use Plastic Bags As Temporary Gloves

When I have a quick need to do a small paint job I use plastic bags for gloves. When finished I through them out.

By Mary C. from Newark, California

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Ingredient Substitution List for Cooking and Baking

It is the time of year where the baking and cooking start and so I wanted to help. I am not sure where these came from but they sure come in handy. They were given to me and I thought they would help anybody who cooks because they have some conversions that they do not have on most charts and I have found to be very helpful. I really hope they will help you and can use them.

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Add a Bay Leaf to Pantry Items to Keep Pests Away

The best thing I have ever found to keep pantry moths or any other pest from getting in your food is to put a bay leaf in the box or package after it is opened. There is something about a bay leaf that they hate. You can get these cheaply at a $1 store.

Source: Read it somewhere a while ago, but don't remember where.

By Elaine from Iowa

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Use Velcro For Recycled Juice Pouch Wallets

When making juice pouch wallets, you could also secure them by sewing on velcro as a closure. This would prevent your cards from randomly falling out of the wallet.

Source: craftster.com

By K Wilson from Ohio

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Braided Fabric Dog Toys

Check out the remnant rack at your local fabric store. Find fleece any kind and cut it in 2 inch wide by 24 or 36 inch long strips. place 3 together tie the ends together knotting it twice and start braiding to the end. Tie the other end. Fleece will not shred and your dog will have tons of fun this is an excellent item for kids to make and give to local pet shelters. Have them make some for pets of family and friends.

By Doreen from Bartow, FL

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Link: Printable 3D Paper Models

I ran across these a second time and decided it deserved to be shared!

Print these cute little 3D paper models toys, tanks, planes, people, a wolf, The Star Fleet and more!

ALL FREE! (Assembly required)

Source:

• http://members.home.nl/saarloos/

By melody_yesterday from Sedalia Mo

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Painting an Old Refrigerator

What paint do I use to paint a refrigerator that has the fingerprint proof bumps. Should I use Krylon for plastic? The refrigerator is not metal.

Eileen from Chicago, IL

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Ideas For Buffet Style Party Food

I would appreciate some suggestions for food to serve for a party (buffet style) that does not need to be kept cold. I am looking for more hearty things, not chips and salsa, or fruit. Also, does anyone know how long you can leave out things like a meat and cheese tray or deviled eggs? Other ideas for ways to keep things cold in a clever way would be much appreciated. This is such a smart group! Thanks in advance for your help!

Mary from Redmond, WA

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Removing Grease From Electric Skillet

I have a Farberware electric skillet that needs the grease and gunk removed from the bottom. I cannot soak it because it is electrical. What on earth can I use to get all this baked on grease off?

Bev from Lincoln, Nebraska

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Making A Paper Pirate Hat

I've been trying to remember how to fold a pirate hat out of newspaper. We used to make them as kids and I wanted to share with my niece and her playmates. Any simple instructions appreciated. Thanks.

Peggy from Cortland and San Antonio

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Ink on Patent Leather

I have a new pair of very expensive patent shoes with an ink stain on them! I have tried hairspray, alcohol, white spirit, milk, soap and water but nothing even comes close to removing it! Help!

Laura from Lancashire, England

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Relieving Itching for Dogs

My chihuahua is constantly itching. The Vet put her on a type of steroid and said she couldn't be on it too long. Does anyone have a suggestion on helping her stop the itching? Thanks.

Terry from New York

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What Is This Tree?

We saw these trees on our trip to California. I just love them. They are much more interesting to me than the typical evergreen "screen" trees you see around here! But what are they?

Laurel from Port Orchard, WA

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Keeping Track Of Bill Due Dates

I am looking for suggestions on paying bills and budgeting. Does anyone have any ideas on how to remember when bills are due and keep track of them? Due to illness I am having trouble remembering. Whatever way will need to be simple and easy. Yes, I know it is a huge request for simple and easy! There is no family near me and I do not want to ask someone else to take this on. Thanks for your help.

Laurel from Winnipeg, Manitoba

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Reviews Of Ab Rocket

I am thinking about purchasing an exercise machine called Ab Rocket. Has anyone used one of these and had any success? Or have you purchased another ab machine that you like? Thanks for any advice.

Scooter from Grand Prairie, TX

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Is My Pit Bull Blue Fawn?

I have a pit bull, I don't know if he is a blue fawn or just blue. The mother is blue and I don't even know if he is full pit bull. Can someone help me?

Adam from Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Storing Bulk Non-Perishable Groceries

When I purchase an item in bulk, it all ends up in the spare bedroom - like an 8 pack of paper towels, for instance. Needless to say, that room is becoming a catch-all. Where and how would you store non-perishable groceries and paper goods?

Holly from Richardson, TX

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Manual For Smith Corona Electric Typewriter XE-5200

Does anyone have information or manual for a Smith Corona electronic typewriter, Model XE-5200.

Retired

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Starching Crocheted Items

Is regular kitchen corn starch good to use for starching crocheted items?

Pat from Estacada, OR

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Recommended Las Vegas Shows

We are going to Las Vegas in late November for the first time and would like to take in some shows. I would like to know if anyone could recommend some shows. Do we have to book them before we go or are there usually tickets available? Any other attractions also that you have enjoyed. We will be going in the middle of the week which probably makes a difference in the availability of the shows. Thanks.

Pico from ST Paul, Alberta

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Sewer Odor Coming From Drains

What would cause a sewer odor coming up from my drains? I live in the city and do not have a septic tank. I occasionally get the same odor from my washer. I assume its from the pipes because my laundry doesn't smell. Just the entire room. Thank you.

Tonya from Arizona

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Rusted Garden Tools

I read somewhere that you can clean and store garden and other tools that rust by putting them in a pail containing sand and motor oil. Does anyone know the ratio of oil/sand? What kind of oil to use and/or where I can find this information. Please and thank you.

Elizabeth from London, Ontario, Canada

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Taking Care of a Dachshund Puppy

Please give me tips to take care of a dachshund. What kind of food should I give to a 5 months old puppy?

Sally from Cebu, Philippines

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Cleaning Oven Racks

How do you clean oven racks? I have a very small sink and the racks will not fit. I heard that if I clean them in the bath tub the gunk that you scrub off might clog the drain. Can anyone advise on a better way to clean oven racks?

Onesummer

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Treats For Large Dogs

I am looking for treats for 60 pound dog with sensitive stomach. What would you suggest?

Holly from Richardson, TX

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Boy's 16th Birthday Party: Asian Theme

I need assistance to plan a Boy's 16th birthday, Asian themed (not a 'sweet' 16). Decorations and games need to be cool, not child-like. What do 16 year olds want to do? He recently relocated and wants to make an impression of not being too dorky. I thought of hiding clues in fortune cookies to find presents? I'm making a cake shaped like Chinese take out and sushi sides (cake). Serving General Tao chicken and rice. It's an afternoon party in October 08.

Robin from Milford, CT

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Repairing Broken Door Frame

I broke the door frame in my house to my front door, where the lock is. How do I replace that part or do I have to replace the whole frame?

Chochies from San Marcos, CA

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Oil Free Soap Recipe

I am looking for an old fashioned soap recipe using lye and lard but no oil. Many recipes I Googled had olive or other oils. I misplaced a simple recipe I had using only lye and lard. Thanks for any replies I receive.

Debbie from Manitoba, Canada

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Food Sticking To Non-Stick Waffle Iron

I bought a new non-stick waffle iron, and since "non-stick" doesn't always mean that, I preheated it and brushed oil on it, as the manual said to do. Well, we all know what happened, right?! Stuck all over the place. I know not to spray Pam, etc. on non-stick. It's the kind that beeps when the waffle is ready, so I know I didn't open it too soon. Please help!

Karen from Portland, OR

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"Eras" Themed Homecoming Parade

I need some ideas for our homecoming parade. Our theme is Eras and we were thinking about the future. We are an insurance agency and the Warriors are playing the Flyers. Anyone have a creative idea? Thanks!

Jill from Plankinton, SD

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Drying and Storing Fruit

How do you dry and store peaches and plums. Do I add ascorbic acid, lemon or salt to peaches before drying?. Do I cut plums in half or add any preservative before drying?

Teague from Bonanza, Oregon

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Looking For Replacement Glass Shelf

I am in search of a 12 inch clear glass square to replace a broken curio shelf.
Where can I find it? Thanks!

Lakshmi from NJ

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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

Avoiding Lead In Your Home
By Kelly Ann Butterbaugh

If lead is found in your home, an experienced professional needs to be hired to remove it. Likewise, if you suspect lead a professional test is also important. However, there are more economical ways to avoid lead in homes that carry lower risks of lead contaminant.

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