Junco BabiesMy friends have a section of their yard that they leave unmowed in the spring and summer. This allows birds to nest there and pollinators to enjoy the flowers. They recently were able to enjoy their little "contribution to the animals" when a Junco chose it as their nesting spot. Look at this tiny, hungry babies!
Vinyl Record Rack for Organizing Plastic ContainersI am always battling with keeping my plastic containers and lids organized. While at the thrift store, I purchased an old 45 record holder with the idea of using it to organize the lids. This is the before and after pictures.
#1 Dad Father's Day CardHere is an easy and simple Father's Day card anyone could make. There is no excuse to have to buy a store bought card especially in the circumstances we are all in right now.
Passionfruit FlowerIt is passionfruit season! Flowers are blooming everyday. I just love how detailed and beautiful they are that I had to share. :)
Backyard Visitor (Fawn)This adorable baby showed up in our yard last week. Our backyard borders the gamelands, and we have seen adult deer walk down our driveway to graze in the fields across the street. We figured momma deer left the baby in our care, so she could feed and run errands.
My First WreathThis is the first wreath I have ever made. I just had to post it. I know it's not the best, but hey! I am pretty proud! The supplies that I used were: a grape vine wreath, burlap ribbon, faux flowers, and a hot glue gun.
Starting a Summer Book Club and Book SwapKeep your kids entertained and reading over the summer by organizing a book club and book swap. Consider one for yourself as well. This is a page about starting a summer book club and book swap.
Summertime Activities for Your ChildrenFrugal living is nothing new to us as I was raised in a family of 11 kids and many foster children. We may have struggled because money was tight, but we never seemed to lack for fun things to do and there was always something going on that held our attention.
Try Geocaching This SummerAs soon as I hear, "Hey, Gigi, let's go geocaching," from one of my grandkids, I'm ready to go.
Attend Free Summer Community EventsThis weekend, we attended Celebrate Hillsboro, an annual summer event provided by the businesses and city of Hillsboro, Oregon.
Summer Crafts and Activities for Kids (and...If I do not make plans to keep my son busy this summer, he will be perfectly content to waste his days watching TV and playing with his DS. So I plan to set up a daily schedule for him.
Almost Free Boredom BustersIn June the kids aren't bored yet; the thrill of summer vacation is still upon them. However, August is another story. With movie prices at $6 or higher and gas soaring in its price per gallon, how can you keep the kids busy and your budget happy?
Nine Layer No Sew Face MaskWith a square of material and two rubber bands follow these steps and have a fast face mask within a minute!
Fabric Face MaskI found this pattern on the Kaiser Permanente website. It is for making a pleated style face mask. The photos are mine, but the instructions are based on their pattern. I have included Kaiser the link as well. The pattern is for a small/medium mask.
Non-Pleated Face Mask With Filter PocketThe most recent orders from our governor include wearing masks when in public so I decided to make a set of masks for my family. I found a free pattern online for a non-pleated mask with filter pocket.
Aloe-Based Hand SanitizerIf you're having trouble finding all the necessary ingredients to make hand sanitizer, here is a type that uses aloe gel. I have a huge aloe plant and just scrape out the middles. You can use bottled aloe gel if you have it. Also, if you don't have essential oils, use lemon juice.
My Life Since Being "Quarantined"I'm not complaining at all here! One thing I want to focus on is my attitude. That is, my attitude now. Oh, I was not very happy with all of this in the beginning! Oh no!
Best COVID-19 Mask PatternsIt has been reported that as many as 25% of people with COVID-19 might be asymptomatic. This is why it is important to wear a mask. Wearing a masks helps stop the spread of the disease by containing respiratory droplets of people who might be sick. Wearing a mask also helps people remember to not touch their face.
Personalized Cross Stitch BookmarkUsing leftover cross stitch fabric, you can make personalized bookmarks. I chose this ASL pattern symbol because my daughter recently graduated with her Associate Degree as an ASL interpreter.
Go With the Flow PaintingA simple pour paint project for those who don't know how to paint, but want to do a painting!
I Never Promised You a Rose Garden (Quilt)I made this rose themed quilt using the "quilt by the square" method of quilting and rose print and coordinating colored fabric scraps.
Washing a Sunbeam Heated BlanketI received a heated throw for Christmas and recently my kids spilled some food on it. I assumed that all I could do was wipe it with a damp cloth, but it turns out you can wash them! You do need to be careful when washing and drying and you can not wash as you would a regular blanket.
Felt Flower WandSince I love plants and flowers, my son made this all on his own as a Mother's Day gift. I was really impressed that I was able to capture some of the steps in his project (as I didn't have a clue he was making it for me until I realized it was a gift).
Choosing a Healthy Cooking OilThere are so many different choices for cooking oils. In a large natural foods store, there might be an entire aisle full of bottles and tins from all across the world. With nutritional studies emerging all the time that seemingly contradict each other, it can be hard to know exactly which oil is the best choice for your family. I decided it was time to find out for sure. I'm not an expert, but I thought I would share what I found out.
Protection from the Birds and the SunWe added a conduit metal frame with side "curtains" and a "roof" to our grow box to prevent birds from attacking our plants and to prevent the sun from attacking our plants. It works well here in sunny Arizona where temperatures get up to 115 to 120 degrees in the summer.
Spilling Wheelbarrow Garden PlanterHere is a "spilling wheelbarrow" I made, using coleus. It was easy to make and can be used for years.
Recycled Wheelbarrow Herb GardenWe've seen that people are making gardens, especially now. My tip is to recycle an old wheelbarrow into a lovely and useful herb garden. There is no weeding and many herbs are perennials. My husband was about to trash his old wheelbarrow and I turned it into a herb garden. Now I just go out the door and snip whatever I need for cooking or to dry.
Now Is the Time for a Victory GardenWith all the extra time spent at home and uncertainty with COVID-19, now is the perfect time to be planting a victory garden.
Beware of Poison Ivy and Poison OakI learned something new. My daughter and I took a stroll on a farm path down by the woods. As we were walking, I noticed a tree that had a limb, about head high, that was filled with pretty leaves with small white clusters of flowers.
Vertical Gardening in PotsAt the beginning of the season I select one plant of each type at a nearby nursery. I cut off each stem about an inch from the bottom. I cut all but the top 2 leaves off of each stem and place the stems in various sized jars of water to root. In a week or two the roots grow long enough to plant them in pots. By this time the original plants have grown up once again and are blooming.
DIY Foil Garden Pest DeterrentsFor several years, most of our big fruit trees were being attacked by squirrels, birds, rodents, raccoons, and insects. Deterrent sprays did not work. Hanging shiny CDs barely helped at all. Finally, we tried this foil method and we have all of our fruit intact and growing at extremely rapid rates. Anyone need nectarines? We can't keep up! :)
Getting Rid of Horse FliesHorse flies can be a menace to have around. This is a page about getting rid of horse flies.
Plastic Bottle Fruit Fly TrapWe have tried many things to get rid of fruit flies in our home, and this is hands down the easiest, cheapest, and most effective way. One of the most important things in order to catch them is the bait you put out. Fruit flies can be more attracted to some things more than others.
Keeping Lizards Off Your PorchLizards love to sun themselves during the day. Your porch may very well be a nearly ideal place for them to catch some sun and warm up. If you live in an area with many lizards, keeping lizards off your porch might be an issue you have to deal with.
Mosquito Repellent RecipesMosquitoes are a problem in many regions. This page contains mosquito repellent recipes.
Use Ammonia to Kill FleasAmmonia applied to carpets where your dogs and cats sleep can be effective in killing fleas. Be sure to let animals out while you do this. This is a page about using ammonia to kill fleas.
Americana Ball WreathI am into Americana way more than traditional red/white/and blue. So I make things every year that reflect that color choice.
Gravity-Defying Ramen CakeThis is a super cool cake you can make at home with a few fun techniques. It's a bowl of ramen with chopsticks that appear to be suspended in the air. You don't need too many obscure items to make this yourself. Making it will save you literally hundreds of dollars as these fun types of cakes don't come cheap from the specialists. Have fun with this edible craft!
Four Necklaces for a DollarUsing a package of headwraps from the Dollar Store and an added embellishment, you have a new necklace!
Blue Beauty (Butterfly on Sedum Flower)Autumn sedum beckons the bees making it almost impossible to capture the perfect photo of the vibrant blue butterflies that flit from flower to flower. Hoping against hope I wouldn't get stung, I planted myself next to the blooms, shutter in hand, waiting for the perfect shot. Behold, this "Blue Beauty" stopped for a sip of nectar, and click, I captured a forever memory.
Home Shaped Money BankThis is a pretty complicated project. I have so much on my mind, like buying a car and building a tiny home. Saving is my one priority in reaching these goals. Then I came up with the idea of making a house shaped like a money bank which is divided into two compartments. One is for coins and the other side for the paper bills.
Minimal Star Craft Stick WreathHere is a tutorial on how to make this simple and extremely inexpensive star wreath (you may even have the supplies already at home).
Removing Roof Tar from Skin with Olive OilRoof tar and other sticky substances can be gently removed from skin by using regular olive oil from the kitchen. Learn how to do it in this short video.
Butterscotch PuddingCreamy butterscotch pudding is easy to make at home with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Learn how to make it in this short video.
Flourless Peanut Butter CookiesThese easy peanut butter cookies are entirely gluten-free. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Japanese Style Puff PancakesThese fluffy pancakes are a delicious alternative to traditional pancakes. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Refinishing Teak Outdoor FurnitureTeak is a common material for outdoor furniture because it is long lasting if cared for correctly. Learn how to do it in this short video.
Halloween Mantel PennantsDress up a boring fireplace mantle with this decorative pennant made from Halloween themed fabric triangles. Learn how to make it in this short video.
Creamy Ginger Parsnip SoupTry this super easy-to-make, delicious, anti-oxidant packed soup. The ginger gives the complex parsnip root a lovely zing, while a touch of butter and cream brings it all together. We are loving this soup right now as we are fighting allergies and mini colds. True comfort in a bowl!
Lower Calorie Banana BreadThis moist banana bread is prepared with less oil and sugar. Applesauce adds some sweetness and the addition of a small amount of chocolate chips fulfills the snack food desire with a somewhat healthier option.
Perfect CrepesKnowing how to make a good crepe comes in handy because you can fill them with whatever you like. They make a wonderful treat whether it's morning, noon, or night. I like to serve them with fresh fruit for breakfast, and tuck them with dark chocolate for dessert. They also make great wraps for things like smoked salmon and cream cheese. Enjoy!
Family Size Chicken Pot PieI am still doing my COVID meals for 4 families in my neighborhood. I am just loving it. I have also received some resource help through church funding which has been a great blessing, and very rewarding! I tried a new recipe of my own to make square foil pan Chicken Pot pies 'Family Size' and they came out great.
Yellow Cake from ScratchWe picked strawberries and made jam. We can't have strawberries on hand and not have strawberry shortcake. I needed a cake so I pulled out my old recipe from the 1950's. Our neighbor, who would be over 110 years old, if she were living today, baked a lot of cakes for many occasions and this is her
Making Tuna TartareFresh tuna is perfect for making this tasty dish. The addition of parsley and ginger add a nice flavor. The instructions for preparing this raw fish dish can be found below.
Getting Rid of Dust Mites in Human HairHow do you use alcohol spray for dust mites in your hair?
Storing White Artificial FlowersMy daughter was suppose to get married in August, but because of the Covid it was postponed until July 2021. How can I keep these from fading or discoloring?
Removing Imprint Left by Vinyl Iron-on TransferHow do I remove the vinyl imprint from a shirt? I did an iron on transfer and didn't like how it looked. I have removed the vinyl and the adhesive is gone, but I have the imprint left. Any suggestions on how I can get rid of the imprint without buying a new shirt?
Repairing a Pfaff 360 Sewing MachineI have a Pfaff 360. When cleaning it the position finger spring fell out. I have the instruction manual, I have the repair manual, and I have the supplemental repair manual, but I cannot find this part listed anywhere (it fell out when I was using the brush to clean out under the needle plate. Does anyone know where this goes?
Value of a Craftsman Yard Man Reel MowerI have an old Craftsman (Yard Man) reel mower, model # 123.81730. The tag says it was manufactured by Yard-Man, Inc. I cannot find any information on it online. Does anyone know where I can find any information on it, or what the value of it is?
What Breed Are My Kittens?I recently got these two adorable kittens and couldn't figure out their breeds! My guess is that they could maybe be a cross?
Finding Plumbing Repair Assistance for...This is a page about finding plumbing repair assistance for low income homeowners. Having working plumbing is a necessity. However, some families can not afford the cost of hiring a tradesperson to make the necessary repairs.
Roof Repair for Low Income HomeownersLow income homeowners often can not afford the cost of roof repairs. Searching for agencies or organizations that might help with the costs may be their only solution. This is a page about roof repair for low income homeowners.
Setting Rates for Cleaning ServicesPart of running a successful cleaning business is being able to estimate the job and charge a reasonable rate that will meet your financial needs and attract customers. This is a page about setting rates for cleaning services.
Finding Home Repair Help for Low Income FamiliesThere are times when household repairs just can not wait until you have the money to complete the project. This page is about finding home repair help for low income families.
Getting Financial Assistance for Roof...When your roof is starting to fail it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. This page is about getting financial assistance for roof repairs.
Identifying Small Black BugsHaving unidentified insects infesting your home can be annoying. It helps to know what kind they are when determining the best way to be rid of them. This is a page about identifying small black bugs.
Getting Dental Work w/o InsuranceFor the many people without dental insurance, there are sometimes affordable ways to get the needed work done. This is a page about getting dental work done without insurance.
Identifying Little Black Biting BugsIdentifying biting bugs is the first step in trying to eliminate them from your home or to repel them when outdoors. This is a page about identifying little black biting bugs.
Buying Second Hand AppliancesThis is a page about buying second hand appliances. One way to save money on expensive home appliances is to shop for second hand ones in good repair.
Selling Trees on Your Land for LumberIf you own acres or even a larger residential lot you may have trees that you would like to have removed and be able to sell for the lumber. This is a page about selling trees on your land for lumber.
Making a Harmonica CaseThis is a page about making a harmonica case. Storing your harmonic can be done easily in either an elaborate case or in a simple homemade one.
Getting Rid of Tiny Biting Black BugsMany types of bugs are small and black, if they are biting bugs they can be annoying and a health hazard. This is a page about getting rid of tiny biting black bugs.
How Much Does House Cleaning Cost?Whether you are looking for a cleaner or starting your own business, determining the average cleaning rates is a main consideration. This is a page about how much does house cleaning cost.
Finding Roof Repair Assistance for SeniorsMany senior citizens are living on fixed incomes that often are insufficient to meet the maintenance needs of their homes. This is a page about finding roof repair assistance for seniors.
Organizations That Help Low Income Families Get Free FurnitureBuying furniture is an expensive undertaking. Families struggling on low incomes often are unable to buy or replace their furniture without some type of assistance. This is a page about organizations that assist low income families get free furniture.
New Era Medicare Supplemental Insurance...Determining what is the best medicare supplemental insurance for you requires some research. This page contains New Era medicare supplemental insurance reviews.
Tiny Black Bugs in the KitchenThe key to getting rid of tiny black bugs on kitchen floor is first identifying what they are. Check out what has worked for others in this page.
Buy Now, Pay Later WebsitesBuy now, pay later websites offer an alternative to shopping using a credit or debit card. This is a page about buy now, pay later websites.
Coping Skills with Depression and AnxietyA few years ago, I needed help with coping with depression and anxiety. I went to classes to learn. I don't usually tell people this, but it helped me learn so much. It helped me then and it is helping me greatly now! A lot!
Keeping Squirrels from Digging in PlantsSquirrels can cause a lot of damage in plant containers and the garden. This page is about keeping squirrels from digging in plants.
Getting Rid of Moles in Your YardThis is a page about getting rid of moles in your yard. Moles can make your yard look really messy in a very short period of time. They are notoriously difficult to eliminate from your yard and often require professional assistance.
Getting Rid of GophersThis is guide about getting rid of gophers. The cute little gopher is the bane of many a gardener and home owner. They are herbivores that love to eat roots. They will eat the roots of your vegetables, flowers, and lawn. Getting rid of them can be difficult.
Removing Rust from Well WaterWell water can contain rust. Not only does rust in your water make the water reddish, unappetizing, and possibly bad tasting it can also stain laundry and other items. This is a page about removing rust from well water.
Refilling a ComforterThis is a page about refilling a comforter. If the fabric on your comforter is still in good shape, but the filling is getting lumpy, try refilling it.
Tiny Orange Biting Bugs Near PoolIf you have issues with tiny, orange bugs around your pool, you aren't alone. It isn't easy to enjoy your pool when you are being bitten by bugs. This is a page about tiny orange biting bugs near pool.
Finding Plumbing Repair Help for Low Income HomeownersThis is a page about finding plumbing repair help for low income homeowners. Plumbing repairs may be too expensive for many low income homeowners. However they are quite necessary for health and even safety. Finding a source of assistance to reduce the costs can help.
Collecting Back Child Support if Parent is DeceasedThis is a page about collecting back child support if parent is deceased. When the obligated parent dies, there may still be ways that the parent with the child(ren) can collect some child support.
Using AAA When Keys Are Locked In the CarWhen your keys are locked in the car, AAA will call a locksmith to help you retrieve them. Hopefully there will be no damage to your automatic window. This is a page about using AAA when keys are locked in the car.
Use WD40 to Get Rid of Carpenter BeesSolvents and oils can often be detrimental to the health of insects. WD40 when sprayed on most insects will kill them. This is a page about how to get rid of carpenter bees.
Rates for Cleaning New Construction HomesThis is a page about rates for cleaning new construction homes. Cleaning businesses often focus on specific types of cleaning jobs, such as private homes, businesses, or new construction.
Cooking Corn on the Cob in a MicrowaveThis is a page about cooking corn on the cob in a microwave. Corn on the cob can be prepared in a variety of ways.
Shaving the Bone to Fit DenturesIf your dentures to not fit right it can not only be irritating and uncomfortable but painful as well. Getting a proper fit may require shaving the bone to fit your dentures by the dentist.
Roof Repair AdviceThis is a page about roof repair advice. Roof repair can be expensive, however allowing the situation to get worse creates an even larger problem.
Preventing and Killing Weeds Between BricksSeeds will land and germinate in your brick driveway, walkway or patio. This page is about preventing and killing weeds between bricks.
Cleaning Discolored LinoleumLinoleum, made from ground wood or cork and usually linseed oil, is susceptible to discoloration. This is a page about cleaning discolored linoleum.
Removing Denture Adhesive from Your MouthDenture adhesive can remain stuck to your gums and the roof of your mouth after taking out your dentures. This is a page about removing denture adhesive from my mouth.
Treating a Kitten with Eye DischargeSome pet ailments can safely be treated at home whereas others need to be referred to a vet to determine the cause and proper treatment. This is a page about treating a kitten with eye discharge.
Cleaning Yellow Bleach Stains in a Plastic...Sometimes using bleach on plastic can result in yellow stains. If this has happened to your bathtub it can be difficult if not impossible to remove the stains. This is a page about removing yellow bleach stains in a plastic bathtub.
Finding Replacement Parts for Jars and CanistersIt can be difficult to find the right sized gasket or closure for an older glass container or cookie jar. Here are tips for ordering a replacement for a vintage or family treasure.
Remedies for Pain from Wearing DenturesGetting your mouth accustomed to false teeth can be uncomfortable. This page is about remedies for pain from wearing dentures.
Can Mold Grow Under Laminate Flooring on a Concrete Foundation?If moisture gets between your laminate floors and the concrete underneath, it can be easy for mold to grow. This is a page about can mold grow under laminate flooring on a concrete foundation?.
Removing Body Odor From FurnitureThe upholstery on your furniture can pick up body odor and need cleaning or refreshing. This is a page about removing body odor from furniture.
Crafts Using Tassimo Coffee DisksThis is a page about crafts using Tassimo coffee disks. Instead of throwing out your used Tassimo disks, why not find a creative way to reuse them.
Removing Moss from Asphalt Roof TilesAsphalt or composite roof tiles can easily get moss growing between them. This is a page about removing moss from asphalt roof tiles.
Making Car Air FreshenersThis is a page about materials for making car air fresheners. If you are looking for an alternative to the ubiquitous pine tree air freshener of old, try making your own.
Minimum Payments to Avoid CollectionsMaking minimum payment to keep an account from going into collections is good way to ensure your credit score does not drop unnecessarily. If you can make minimum payments to avoid collections it's usually a good idea.
Getting Rid of Invisible Biting BugsWhen you are having trouble identifying what insect is biting you, they can be difficult to get rid of. This is a page about getting rid of invisible biting bugs.
Make Your Own Disinfectant WipesYou can save money using coffee filters or paper towels to make your own handy disinfecting wipes. This is a page about making your own disinfectant wipes.
Homemade Ant Killer RecipesStore bought ant killers and pest control services can be expensive and toxic. Save money by making your own. This page has lots of green ideas for killing ants at home.
Homemade Cat RepellentsThere are many areas of the home and garden that you may want to keep cats out of. This page features homemade cat repellents and strategies for keeping cats out of your yard.
Disposing of Lamp Oil ProperlyThe type of oil used in your lamp and the local recycling and waste regulations will help determine the best way to dispose of the oil. This is a page about disposing of lamp oil properly.
ASPCA Pet Vaccination Truck ScheduleIn some places like New York City, the ASPCA has mobile vaccination trucks that service neighborhoods on a set schedule. This page has links and information about the ASPCA's mobile vaccination truck schedules.
Selling Mature Pine TreesIf you have large pines trees that need to be removed, it may be possible to sell the timber if you have enough of them or a desirable variety of tree. Selling mature pine trees from your property can help clear some land and make some money.
Fly Repellants for a Porch AreaPesky flies in your porch area can keep you from enjoying the shade offered on a sunny day. This is a page about fly repellants for a porch area.
Restoring the Shine on a Formica CountertopOver time with normal usage and constant cleaning, your Formica countertops can look dull and worn. This is a page about restoring the shine on a Formica countertop.
Making a Mosquito TrapTo keep mosquitoes from ruining a picnic or camping trip, it is nice to have an enticing trap to lure them away from you. This page is about making a mosquito trap.
Keeping Mold from Growing on House SidingHumid climates and natural disasters can lead to mold growth on the siding of your home. This is a page about keeping mold from growing on house siding.
Slipcovers for Reclining CouchesFinding slipcovers for your reclining couch may be difficult. This is a page about slipcovers for reclining couches.
Getting Rid of Ants in the KitchenHave ants taken up residence in your home? The kitchen can be a challenging place to get rid of ants since there are so many sources of food. This is a page about getting rid of ants in your kitchen.
Cleaning of Footprints on Laminate FloorThis is a page about cleaning footprints on laminate floor. Hard surface floors such as wood, tile, and laminate can show water spots, foot prints, and the like on your flooring. Using the right cleaner will remove footprints and other smudges on your flooring.
Bar of Soap Stuck in ToiletThis page is about bar of soap stuck in toilet. A soap bar is an immediate obstruction to your plumbing when it accidentally is flushed in the toilet.
Identifying Flying InsectsThere are a variety of small insects that can be bothersome around the house and yard. Use these tips to help identify and mitigate common tiny insects. This is a page about identifying flying insects.
Dog Pees in Owner's BedThis is a page about dog pees in owner's bed. It is extremely frustrating when your dog pees on the bed. There are a few different reasons that this may occur. Knowing why your dog exhibited this behavior will help to teach her not to do it again in the future, or help you make changes to prevent this from reoccurring.
Finding Free or Low Cost Pet Clinics in...When looking for veterinarian services it helps to find a clinic you can afford. This page is about finding free or low cost pet clinics in California.
What Type of Doctor to Consult for Muscle Spasms?When you have a pain in your muscles, it can be hard to know what is causing it. Certain conditions require different typesof specialists. This is a page about what type of doctor to consult for muscle spasms?
Freezing Hot DogsThis is a page about freezing hot dogs. You can take advantage of sale prices on hot dogs by buying them in quantity and freezing them.
