Companion Plants for Cucumbers?
Nasturtiums are supposed to work well with cucumbers to help ward off pests.
Getting Rid of Flies Outside?
Theres a whole list of herbs that are said to repel flies, like mint and basil. You might try growing some potted herbs on your patio and see if that helps. If nothing else youll have fresh herbs for the kitchen! Citronella candles or oil burners could also...
Brown Areas on My Green Bell Peppers?
It might be blossom-end rot, a condition that affects peppers and tomatoes amongst others. Affected fruits tend to get brown or black rotted patches along the bottoms. Its due to calcium deficiency and can be caused by over or under-watering. You might want...
Jade and Other Succulents Losing Leaves and Turning Yellow?
Jade does tend to get yellow when over-watered, so its probably the rain. Id make sure the pots are all draining well and leave them somewhere that they can dry out. Hopefully theyll spring back to life soon!
Squirrels vs. Container Garden Veggies?
Squirrels always hit me in the spring. I dont know how many peanuts Ive found buried in my raised beds, and I sure didnt plant them there! The best thing Ive found is to protect them with garden netting. I set up a kind of tent which helps keep other curious...
Is It Too Late to Start My Garden?
What you can plant now would depend on your zone. Many vegetables like tomatoes can be bought as small plants, so even if youve missed the time for sowing as seed you could still get something in the ground. Check your local garden center to get an idea of...
Brightening Up a Dark Living Room?
I cant stand dark rooms, I know how you feel! Hanging some mirrors on the dark wall would reflect light and also give the illusion of more space. Some tall wardrobe mirrors could take advantage of the high ceilings and wouldnt be too expensive to buy. Keep...
Wording for a Pay Your Own Way Birthday Party?
Probably the easiest way would be to have a potluck party and ask people to bring a dish to pass. Asking for money is a little trickier. If its something where you need money in advance you might ask for a suggested donation or something along those lines, and...
Cooling a Stone Garden Wall During Summer?
A wooden trellis or lattice would help to block out the sun yet still allow the air to flow through. This or some kind of patio awning would help to keep the sun from beating directly onto the house, which would also help keep you cooler. As the other poster...
Looking for Vegetarian Bean Soup Recipes?
I make this soup all the time. Inexpensive, filling, and easy to make. Its made with lentils but you could substitute white beans if you prefer. Lentil & Tomato Stew 1 can tomatoes, whole or diced (do not drain) 1-2 carrots, chopped 1 cup frozen or canned peas...
Cat Has Gone to Live with a Neighbor?
This reminds me of a cat at our old place. One of the neighbourhood cats randomly decided to adopt us one day. We never fed her, but shed spend half the day lounging in our garden. Shed even come in the cat door and make herself at home until she decided it...
How To Kill A Tree?
Im not sure if youre in the UK, but you might want to be careful. If the tree is protected you could be facing a hefty fine for damaging it.
Harvesting Potatoes?
It depends on if youre growing early or maincrop potatoes. Earlies are usually ready about 10-12 weeks after sowing, about a couple weeks after the plant blooms. Maincrop potatoes are usually ready in about 18-20 weeks, after the foliage has begun to wilt.
Planting Suggestions for Winter Vegetables and...
Nice garden bed! What you can grow really depends on the climate where you are, but some hardy lettuce, spinach, or certain radishes might go in now. Looking ahead you might also make some autumn sowings of broad beans or peas for next year. I dont know if...
How Do I Can Potatoes?
Never canned potatoes myself but my Mom used to, and they were wonderful. The only thing I do know is that potatoes need to be pressure-canned due to the low acid content. This is a useful guide to home canning: http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications_usda...
How Do I Find Wild Flowers to Plant in My Garden?
In some areas wildflowers are protected so digging them up might actually be illegal. One of the least expensive ways to start would be to grow flowers from seed. You can buy them pretty cheaply and many flowers produce seed that can be saved for next year...
Cursor Problems With Dell Inspirion Laptop?
I had this problem with a laptop once, a Dell as it happens. Turns out I was brushing up against the keyboard mouse pad when I was typing, and it was sensitive enough to send the cursor off somewhere onto the page. As I didnt use the mouse pad I ended up covering...
What is the Best Groundcover for Sunny Rocky Bank?
Creeping thyme might be a good choice, it has pretty flowers and likes sunny, rocky areas. Like all thymes its aromatic, too.
Information About Campbellsville, KY and Sault Ste Marie, MI?
Im originally from Michigan, and though its been a long time I remember Sault Ste. Marie as being pretty small and really remote. Its far to the north. The climate up there would be a big adjustment from Kentucky! The UP gets a lot of snow. Personally I liked...
What Are the Disadvantages of Using Store Brands?
Here in the UK most supermarkets do their own discounted brands plus a bargain-basement value range. It depends on the product but Im generally hard pressed to tell the difference. I wouldnt say theres no difference in quality; look at a bottle of pasta sauce...
Substitutes for Aluminum Foil?
Ill reuse foil, depending on whats been wrapped in it. With raw meat I wouldnt reuse. It is possible to buy recycled aluminum foil though I dont see it too often. I reuse plastic freezer bags quite a bit for storage, for frozen vegetables or pasta and flour...
Allergic Reaction to Facial Wipe Caused Skin Inflammation?
I had a reaction to a moisturiser brand that Id used for years and it was like Id been sunburned. My eyes and lips were puffy and my skin turned blotchy red. Once I figured out what the problem was it still took a week for my face to go back to normal. If youve...
Why Are Some Seeds Only Planted When Weather Warms Up?
I think Mrs.Story is pretty much right. The plants we sow are natives to all parts of the world. A plant thats used to long cold winters and short summers wont grow the same as one adapted to the tropics. A few days of warmth in the spring might call some plants...
How Do I Start Vegetable Seeds Indoors?
Is there a chance youre falling victim to damping off? Its where otherwise healthy seedlings suddenly become weak and die. Its caused by a fungus that attacks the plants. Ive had this happen myself. Over-damp soil and lack of airflow can lead to the problem...
Homemade Hamburger Helper?
Mine is pretty similar to ones already posted, though I dont use a mix. I just brown the ground beef and onion, drain, then add water, pasta and bullion. The ratio is about 2 cups water to 1 cup dry pasta. I mix cornstarch into a half-cup of milk to thicken...
What Plants Will Grow in High Altitude Conditions?
Alpines, possibly? The mountains are their native habitat and they have some beautiful flowers. A windbreak or sheltered location for planting would help too. You could also check to see what wildflowers grow native in your area and try those.
How Can I Hang Plates on the Wall Inexpensively?
Not sure if this is something youd want to do, but this is how I hung some large metal plates on my wall. I got some sturdy picture hanging hooks (the saw-toothed kind) and glued them onto the back of the plates with super glue. Then I could just hang them...
How Can I Hang Plates on the Wall Inexpensively?
My plates have been up for years now, but Id assume that if the plates were valuable its not something one would want to try anyway! You end up with a permanent hook on the plate. Glue works better on some surfaces than others so Id test it first and see. Its...
Snacks for a "Sweet" Themed Birthday Party?
Maybe instead of a cake you could have one of those cupcake trees? Or heart-shaped cakes decorated like sweethearts. Valentines day is near and you could probably find heart shaped pans pretty easily.
Can I Use Baking Powder Instead of Baking Soda for Cleaning?
Baking powder is generally just baking soda mixed with an acid like cream of tartar. Im sure it would work in a pinch but like redhatterb says plain baking soda would be cheaper to use. Borax and washing soda are often used as substitutes for baking soda in...
Planting a Small Peter Rabbit Garden?
Its been awhile since I read Peter Rabbit, but I think a rustic look would be key. For small plots lettuces and herbs can make nice borders. You could experiment with different colors. If you want to go for an English effect dwarf lavender in some terracotta...
Setting Up a Household Budget?
No idea where my original post went, but again what really helped me when money was tight was keeping everything on paper. Get receipts for everything you buy and save them. It makes it easier to catagorize different expenses (from the necessary to the unnecessary...
Saving Money on Groceries?
I find it useful to sit down and work out the cost of meals I make by adding the price of various ingredients used. Sometimes it can really be an eye-opener. Other factors come into play too, like how many leftovers I can get from a dish. Meals based on pasta...
Ideas for Winter Wreaths?
White and green would be nice colors, maybe one of those willow or grapevine wreaths with some white berries and flowers or ribbon for trim.
Ladybugs in the House?
I remember ladybug swarms! One ladybug is cute, dozens of them not so much. But theyre harmless at least. Since youre only there for a few days Id just make sure your suitcases are zipped up so you dont take any unwanted guests home. I wouldnt bother with sprays...
Relieving Tension Headaches?
I used to have problems with stress, but rather than headaches I got awful stomach cramps. Its not fun, I know. Some aromatherapy is really helpful. Try some lavender or chamomile essential oil in a diffuser or inhale a couple drops on a tissue. If you feel...
Massachusetts Christmas Charities?
One year when I was a kid we didnt have money for a Christmas tree. So my Mom got one of those inexpensive artificial table-top trees and we made ornaments for it out of construction paper and glitter and things. It was lots of fun, and I was really proud of...
Helping Teens Save Money?
One simple way would be to encourage her to save her spare change in a jar. Anytime she has a dollar or so, stick it in the pot. Shed probably be amazed at how much is in there after a few months!
Ten Things to Do Instead of Black Friday
Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving in the US, often called the biggest shopping day of the year. The shops put everything on sale and things can get a bit out of hand! The equivalent would be the Boxing Day sales in the UK.
Looking for an Old Cook Book?
I have a very similar book from the 40s-50s called The Modern Family Cook Book by Meta Given. Passed down from my great-grandmother! It has a weeks worth of meal plans for every month and large amount of great recipes. Mine also has the menu plans in the front...
Storing Clothing in a Small Apartment?
Apartments in the UK tend to be very short on storage space, unfortunately. We dont have a single closet in our entire place! Those stackable plastic tubs make for decent storage, more sturdy than boxes. You might also try some of those vacuum bags that compress...
What Type of Desk is This?
Might it have been a typewriter desk? One where the typewriter could be hidden away. That or some sort of drafting desk. It looks more like office or school furniture than something for the home. Im no expert though, just my thoughts! :-)
Homemade Furniture Polish?
I mix together about 1/4 cup white vinegar and a good tablespoon of jojoba oil in a bowl, then apply with a soft rag. Then take a dry corner and buff it to wipe off excess oil. You dont really need much oil to make a good furniture polish and this way it doesnt...
Companion Planting in the Vegetable Garden?
The Three Sisters were corn, beans and squash. Beans or peas are beneficial to corn as their roots fix nitrogen into the soil. Theres a mountain of lore concerning companion planting, and some of it might be more true than others. Flowers and herbs can be particularly...
Jobs You Can Do While Pregnant?
Congratulations! Technically any job would do, but it would be smart to avoid any where youre exposed to chemicals (cleaning products too), loud noise or have to do heavy labor. All those things could have an effect on your baby. Someone suggested temp work...
Calling 911 on a Land Line Without Home Phone Service?
I think local phone companies are required to give you a line, even if you dont have service with them. I used to live in a house-share where we didnt have regular phone service but you could still get a dial tone. I used a calling card to make calls. If in...
Help with Water Bath Canning?
Low-acid foods like those need to be pressure canned, otherwise the heat isnt high enough to destroy botulism. The USDA has a really useful guide: http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications_usda.html
Can you get whiter skin?
Two years is a long time to keep a sunburn! I might consider going to a dermatologist. Good luck!
Noisy Budgies?
We have budgies, and as much as we love them they can absolutely drive you crazy! They arent melodious, for sure. Unless theyre actually fighting theyre probably not angry though; its just their sound. Budgies arent programed to be quiet, and they associate...
Treating a House Lizard Bite?
The only truly poisonous lizards live in the USA and Mexico. A house lizard is a gecko, isnt it? They arent poisonous though they can sometimes spread infection through bacteria. Can you see any puncture marks on the bite? I agree with the other poster, it...
My Frugal Life: Thinking Twice
I like your idea of passing books and magazines on. The cost of those can definitely add up! When I go into town now to buy something often I get it in my hands and think, do I really need this? More than not I put it back. It can get really annoying, but it...
Growing and Storing Vegetables for a Family of Four?
The first thing you need to ask is what kinds of vegetables your family likes. What do you eat the most of? Theres no point in having mountains of broccoli if no one eats it! Another thing to ask is how long the vegetables will take to mature. Carrots and lettuce...
Organizing a Small Kitchen?
I feel your pain; if two of us are in the kitchen here, someone has to back up so the other can leave. We bought an inexpensive sideboard which lives in our entry way, and its doubled the kitchen storage. And things I dont use much, like the cake mixer actually...
Where Can I Find Inexpensive Wedding Invitations and Decorations?
We used a print-at-home invitation kit for our wedding. It came with nice embossed card stock, RSVP forms and envelopes, and the result was really pretty. Provided you dont have hundreds of invitations to send out its easy and inexpensive to do. Craft, party...
Why are My Onions Small and Going to Seed?
Weather is what usually makes onions bolt, especially a fluctuation in temperatures. The onions think their season is done so they send up flowers to make seed. There are bolt-resistant varieties available but I dont know much about them.
What Natural Remedy Can I Use for Dry Skin on My Face?
The acne wash might be too drying, especially if you have combination skin. You could try switching to a mild soap and using witch hazel on the oily areas. Chamomile tea also makes a gentle astringent toner; just brew a cup as you normally would and keep it...
How Do I Make Easy Spanish Rice?
This ones tasty and easy to put together: 1 medium onion, chopped 1 green pepper, chopped 1 clove minced garlic, or garlic granules 1 can diced tomatoes 3/4 cup dry white rice 1 tsp chili powder 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp worcestershire sauce or soy sauce...
Why Do My New Bathmats Have a Skunk Odor?
Honestly, Im not sure if theres much you can do. Sometimes rubber or plastic just has a bad odor. Since theyre new and youve washed them its probably not mildew. You could try hanging them up outside to see if that helps. Good luck!
Wardrobe Advice?
First of all, I know its a cliche but a smile is the most attractive thing you can wear! If you dont have confidence in yourself no outfit will make you feel attractive. Focus on the things you like about yourself rather than dwelling on the negative. Instead...
Eating Healthy on a Budget
Ive been budget cooking for years, and I honestly think we eat better now than before. One of the easiest ways to cut down on your food bill is just to reduce the amount of meat you eat. Rather than serve everyone a separate portion of meat, make dishes like...
Cucumbers as a Companion Plant to Corn?
Yes, cucumbers are often listed as good companion plants for corn. They also do well with beans, one of the other sisters.
Inexpensive Vegetarian Recipes?
Eating meatless is probably the cheapest way to eat, so youre already halfway there! Were not vegetarians but I make veggie meals 2-3 times a week to save money. For low cost buy staples like dried beans, lentils, rice and pasta. Lots of protein and fiber for...
Plants That Grow Well Near Potatoes?
Potatoes shouldnt be grown near tomatoes, I think because of risk of blight. Theyre supposed to do well near beans and corn though. Potatoes do well in tubs (especially early varieties) so you might consider growing them in containers where you could keep them...
Using Dialect and Colloquialism in Writing?
Just keep your audience in mind. If what youre writing is fairly informal, such as a blog or a lifestyle piece, then using slang or regional dialects may be fine. Avoid using any words that might be offensive or unclear to those who come from outside your region...
Alternative to Flower Petals for Flower Girl to Scatter?
My sister-in-law used rice paper confetti outdoors at her wedding. Its biodegradable and very pretty! You might see it marketed as eco-confetti or something similar.
Tap Water Cloudy and Bubbly?
Could it be from extra air getting into the pipes somehow? Does it stay cloudy, or does it clear? If it clears after a moment and doesnt have any unusual odor its probably alright. My grandparents tap water was always like that. If its a sudden change thats...
Buying a Stand Electric Mixer?
I had a Kitchen Aid mixer some years ago (lost in a move) and though I loved it I dont think Id invest in one again. Great for a frequent baker or someone who makes a lot of bread but otherwise too big and too heavy. It weighed a ton! I have one of those convertible...
Low Light House Plant Ideas?
Two good low-light plants are English ivy and the peace lily. Both are easy to care for, just requiring a little regular watering. Theyre very good at purifying the air, too. I think most houseplants are toxic so if you can put them somewhere your cats cant...
Making Brick Feet Warmers?
Plain old-fashioned hot water bottles do the trick. Some you can buy even come with their own snuggly covers. I fill mine with hot tap water and stick it under the sheets a little while before bed; by the time we crawl in we have a warm space for cold feet...
Save Time and Money With Home Cooked Meals
Theres a big difference in my food bill if I buy convenience foods at the supermarket rather than basics for a meal. And ordering pizza costs about what I could spend on three dinners for the pair of us! The savings with home cooking are really noticeable. Most...
Rehydrating Beans in Hard Water?
A spoonful of baking soda should help to soften the water, but salt should be avoided as it toughens the beans. Age affects them too, so if theyre older than six months you might consider buying some new as the older ones are harder. If its still a problem...
Paper Or Plastic Bags?
Paper vs. plastic isnt an issue for me; I cant remember the last time I even saw paper bags available in the supermarket! Ive been using cloth bags for years now. Plastic is a waste, especially when the cashiers do the bagging. They seem to aim for about 1...
Breaking a Lease?
Breaking a lease is tricky; youre legally obligated to pay the rent for the full term. I think your best bet is to have an honest talk with your landlord. Tell them your situation and they might be willing to work out some flexible rent payment terms. A lot...
Finding Non Toxic Cleaning Products?
Ill repeat the old mantra here: Baking soda! Bicarbonate of soda is great for cleaning all kinds of surfaces. Sprinkle some in a bowl and mix with a dollop of liquid dish detergent to make a non-scratching soft scrub that deals with greasy messes no problem...
Eating a Healthy Vegetarian Diet?
You say get healthy so Im not sure if youre having any medical problems, but in general a vegetarian diet can be perfectly healthy and isnt too different from a healthy meat-eating diet. A few servings of legumes like beans & lentils or tofu a day provides...
What Do You Use to Clean Windows?
Straight club soda in a spritzer bottle works well for windows and glass too, and its a good alternative if the smell of vinegar is too overpowering. For windows I use a squeegee and wipe up any excess with a microfiber cloth. It makes the job go a lot faster...
Propagating Ivy?
Ivy is a root plant and I dont think it comes from bulbs. Propagating ivy is easy though, just take some cuttings and keep in a glass of water until roots form.
Treating Fleas with WD-40?
WD-40 is toxic! Its flammable and can cause lung damage and skin irritation in humans. The effects on smaller animals like dogs would probably be worse. Prolonged exposure might actually kill your pet. Its made from chemical ingredients, not fish oil. Please...
Use Care With Fireworks
Definitely. Not to rain on anyones parade, but I think a lot of people dont appreciate that fireworks are in fact explosives! I also have had experiences of fireworks being tossed for fun into a crowd. And just a few years ago a rocket we were setting off fell...
Cleaning and Organizing My House?
Sit down with your husband and have a good talk with him. Im guessing that clutter isnt all yours! Try and get him to help one afternoon a week for starters, between the two of you its surprising how fast jobs can go. For organizing the stuff you want to keep...
Ants and Wasps in Bird Feeders?
A good layer of petroleum jelly around the pole or mount keeps ants away pretty well. Ive heard they dont like peppermint oil too, you could try dabbing some of that around. Im not sure about the wasps though!
Seasoning Mix for Hamburger Patties?
Store-bought seasonings can have a lot of salt so I tend to avoid them. Oregano and thyme, mustard powder, and a dash of salt & pepper makes a fantastic blend for ground beef. For a meat loaf I use about 1/2 tsp each of the herbs and 1 tsp mustard. You cant...
The Basics of Square Foot Gardening
I wanted to give this a thumbs-up too! Its much easier than traditional gardening. My beds are fairly small so I try to focus on companion planting by growing vegetables alongside different herbs and flowers. It helps the plants and gives me a good variety...
Celtic Themed Wedding?
What a beautiful theme! Just a thought, have you tried looking online for Renaissance Faire or historical garb? There are plenty of sites that sell Celtic or medieval dresses for a lot less than that, and some places even do custom work.
BBQ Sauce Using Tomato Soup
I dont know if this is the recipe youre looking for as it uses tomato juice rather than soup but it sounds similar. Its a bit sharp so I tend to cut down the vinegar, but it makes a great sauce! From my grandmothers 1950 Betty Crocker cookbook: Texas Barbecue...
Healthy Comfort Food?
Theres hundreds of cookbooks out there designed for specific dietary requirements, but as a basic book Id recommend the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook if you dont already have one. Lots of good, easy-to-make recipes and the newer editions include nutritional...
Learning to Knit Vs. Crochet?
Its funny, my Mom used to crochet like the wind. She always said it was easier than knitting and she tried to show me but I never could get the hang of it. Years later I tried again, but still no success. I decided to try knitting and I found I picked it up...
Causes of Bloating and Gas?
A cup of peppermint or fennel tea after meals can help aid digestion and cut down on bloating. Stomach problems can be aggravated by stress too, so if youve been feeling uptight lately that might have something to do with it. But as others said you need to...
Homemade Kitchen Cleaner?
I use one similar to the recipe in the first post. Just mix a couple tablespoons baking soda with a couple tablespoons of dishwashing liquid in about 18 oz. of warm water and stir to combine. A few drops of essential oil like lavender is a nice touch, too. Its...
Removing BO Odors from Clothing?
Ditto on the baking soda. I use about a half a cup along with my regular detergent and it really does the trick. A bit of detergent and baking soda in a presoak also helps. Borax is great for odors too, though you might check for color fastness first.
Growing Lavender in Texas?
I dont have any personal experience with that, but lavender is native to the hotter regions of the world. It tends to like drier soils and sun. If it seems to be baking too much you might try planting it where it has some shade in the hottest hours of the day...
Be Grateful for What You Have
We were living the simple life before the economic troubles hit, just because we didnt have much money. For someone who used to have plenty of disposable income it took some getting used to! But it really opened my eyes as to how much we buy that we just dont...
Homemade Deodorant
I like to use the more natural deodorants but as theyre a bit expensive I recently decided to give the baking soda thing a try. I couldnt believe how well it works! I use a 50/50 blend of baking soda and corn starch with a few drops of essential oils for scent...
Inexpensive Pasta Dishes
Savory Pasta Bake: 2 cans whole or diced tomatoes, partially drained 1 onion, chopped Chopped green pepper, frozen peas, corn, whatever you have on hand Cooked bacon, chopped ham or any cooked leftover meat Pasta Thyme, 1 tsp Marjoram, 1 tsp Paprika, 1 tbs...
Mention Disappointments When Eating Out
I agree with Denise; I was a server for many years and know how hard a job it can be. What a hungry customer might call poor service might just be some frazzled waitress trying to deal with any number of things going on in the background. And more than once...
Preparing for Thunderstorm and...
Good tips for storm season. I dont live in the US anymore, but I always found a NOAA weather radio to be a good thing to have. Many models feature alarms that can alert your family if severe weather is approaching in the middle of the night. A portable police...
Beverage Tips For Weddings
Ive never been to a wedding that had an open bar, and Ive been to some nice weddings. Personally I think giving people an opportunity to drink themselves senseless is a bad idea, anyway. Most weddings Ive been to have offered a glass of champagne at the toast...
East Coast Vs West Coast Behavior Differences?
Ive lived all over the US and the UK too, and while there are regional differences in culture and attitudes you will find that people are people wherever you go. Some people will give you the shirt of their back and others will try to steal it from yours. Some...
Growing: Pot Marigold
I agree the pictures on this thread are of tagetes, not pot marigold. I dont know if african marigolds are edible or not, Ive read some places that say yes and others that say no. Potty, dont worry calendula is a very forgiving plant! Its quite hardy and easy...
Freebies Help You To Be Frugal
Many of the expensive cosmetic counters will give you samples of a product if you ask. Its not something you can do regularly (unless you live somewhere with a lot of shopping malls, lol) but for things you might not use a lot its handy. Samples of eye shadow...
