Proper Usage of Survivor Benefits?
As legal guardian, I would think you have implicite consent to use the money as you see fit (ever mindful of the needs of the child). However, if you can access legal aid (or some form of low cost legal advice), why not get all the information you can?
Repairing a Burn Spot on a Wood Table?
Why not invite your guest over for a sanding the table party? Sandpaper, stain, lacquer and elbow grease are the ingredients necessary to repair the damage.
Value of Vintage Mersman Side Table?
As with everything, Manuela, its worth exactly what a potential buyer is willing to pay. If you really want to know, list it on e-bay or craigslist and see if anyones interested. The words you use to describe the item will either compel people to buy or repel...
Washing a Dry Clean Only Sweater?
My closet is filled with lovely garments many of which (allegedly) require dry cleaning. I once watched a documentary about how damaging that process can be and since then (these past 30 years) have assiduously avoided doing so. Your sweater? The first time...
Venue for 5th Year Vow Renewal?
Why not find an outdoor venue, a garden or park with plentiful flowers?
15 Year Old Birthday Party Ideas?
Im betting, Tracy, that more than anything she would love to spend a day with you. Just think of the fun and anticipation you could both enjoy planning things to do together (the planning and imagining being a big part of the treat).
Clothing Dye Bled in the Wash?
You could try fabric paint on the formerly white part or sew white lace onto that portion?
Child Support and Social Security Disability?
Now would be a good time to talk to a lawyer, dont you think?
60th Birthday Party Ideas?
Well, if hes likely to get all teary, perhaps a private function would be best? Why not plan a meal of his favourite foods and invite his favourite people? Small, intimate ...?
Ideas for Trivia Game Night Prizes?
Why not stop in at your local dollar store? They always seem to have oodles of useful and / or fun things. Decks of cards, coffee mugs, pens and pencils ....
What Are These Houseplants? (Kalanchoe)
The pink is most definitely Kalanchoe. Sorry, I dont recognize the white.
Name for Senior Project Graphic Design Book?
Personally, Yasmin, Im all for keeping it simple. Unblock Your Creativity says it all, dont you think? Or perhaps Finding Your Creative Self. Good luck!
Choosing the Right Amount of Health Care Insurance?
You ask a difficult question, Vicki. On the one hand you know the benefits of having insurance (your husbands benefits), on the other hand (in my humble opinion) buying insurance is giving in to fear. Insurance companies make a lot of money by selling fear...
Retro Kitchen Paint Color Advice?
I like it too, Jody. The colour of the cabinet fronts ties in to the flooring. But if you want a bit of an updated look, why not consider different (perhaps white) drawer and door pulls / handles?
Repairing a Table Damaged by Nail Polish Remover?
Well, Sal, I think you might end up having to refinish the top of your table. Finding an exact spray paint match will be diffficult. However, if you dont want to strip the existing colour and re-paint the entire top, why not consider other options? For instance...
Returning to Natural Hair Color After Dyeing It?
According to my hairdresser, blonds usually go darker before our hair goes grey.
Monitoring Your Child's Texting?
Kudos to you, Bridgeybee, for being so involved! Your daughter may not appreciate it, but shes not the adult in the room. That said, Im betting youve done a great job raising her (despite her current behaviour) and perhaps its time to put a little trust in...
Stretching Shoes With Hot Water
Disagreeing with you, Herb. This does work very well on all leather products, but plastics and faux leather? Not so much. Its difficult nowadays to find footwear thats 100% leather so Im glad you included the at your own risk note.
Free Movie Websites?
Youll need a computer with an internet link and a little bit of storage capacity, but check out peer-to-peer downloads.
Custom Home Decor Business Name Ideas?
These days, PopRusty, if you want to grow your business the internet cannot be ignored; its how people will find you, right? Even an indirect link through online business directories will help potential clients find you. To that end, please consider choosing...
Curtain Color Advice?
Why not check your local fabric store, Tricia? Without committing a whole lot of money, you can buy a piece of the colour you have in mind and hang it on the wall by the doors for a while. See if you like it?
Large Spool Thread Breaking on Sewing Machine?
Great pointers, Sunnie! New2Sew, why not check Google for do-it-yourself cone holders?
Curtain Color Advice?
Brown and white (egg shell) just begs for a pop of colour, doesnt it? Why not experiment a bit with various cushion colours as well as silk flowers to see what you like? Yellows, oranges, perhaps other earth tones?
Decorating Outdated 1980s Kitchen?
Well, Loralee, you can paint your cabinet fronts. Ive even heard that its possible to paint wallpaper, but you may prefer to try a test patch (behind the fridge or stove, perhaps). New curtains (which you can make yourself)?
Main Breaker for Apartment Keeps Tripping?
Just a question, Linkeen1, but do your power circuits (the use of which are calculated and billed to you) include any outside outlets? Is it possible someone has been plugging in at your expense?
Melting Ice on Sidewalk?
http://www.readersdigest.ca/home-garden/cleaning/de-icing-your-driveway-right-way/
14th Birthday Ideas?
Everyones idea of fun is different, Mikki. Why not take time to think about your favourite things to do?
Remedies for Perm Damaged Hair?
Falling out at the roots or breaking off when you comb it? You might want to get some professional advice. Consider talking to someone at a good salon?
Locating the Source of a Smell in Garage?
Do you know anyone with a dog? (Im from a farming background, we always had at least one big dog, usually a shepherd mix, and they loved smelly / stinky / rotting things.) Find a dog to help locating the source?
Re-dyeing Hair?
At your own risk, Fara. The dying process strips your hair of nutrients. Stop by a local hair salon and ask their advice.
Writing a 15 Year Service Recognition Statement?
Presuming your 15 years with the company have been good ones, MN, why not concentrate your remarks on thanking the individuals who i) recognized your ability and took the opportunity to hire you, ii) those among your co-workers who helped you with projects...
Repairing a Burned Hole on a Dress?
Sorry to say, Lyne, theres no easy repair option. Your dress looks lovely by the way, and you may be able to fix it, but itll mean undoing the waist and neckline seams before cutting out the damaged portion and re-sewing the front of the garment. How snugly...
Christmas for New Boyfriend?
Why dont the two of you pool your resources and make plans for a really nice date night?
Sewing Machine Jammed?
I would recommend you do what you can at home before taking it into a shop, Charlene. For instance, very carefully remove all fabric and thread from the sewing area, turn the wheel by hand to raise the needle. If you can get the needle up, check to see if its...
Removing Heat Mark from Wood Table?
Someone suggested mayonnaise, Sheryl, ages ago, this site. Basically, apply a liberal amount to the area, leave it alone for a few hours then wipe clean. I tried it and it worked fairly well. The mark wasnt completely gone, but it was certainly much less noticeable...
Replacing Screw on PFAFF 1050 Needle Clamp?
My machine is a 1209, Denise, and possibly not much different than yours. I see 4 small screws in and around the needle: 2 to the right, 1 behind and the fourth directly above the last. The only one you might have trouble seeing is the one directly behind the...
14th Birthday Party Ideas?
If youve only got a month left, Emily, I guess youd better get on it, dont you? Instead of spending time asking for advice, why not call the various dance studios to see if they can accommodate your preferred party date and if theyll help you with decorating...
Fudge Not Setting Up?
I can tell you from years of experience making fudge for gifts, find a better recipe. Eagle Brand has an excellent one which never fails and doesnt need a candy thermometer (if you cant find it, message me and Ill send it to you. In the meantime, you have an...
Bleach Spot on T-shirt?
Unfortunately, Alison, bleach isnt a stain you can remove. One of the things you can do is buy green felt from your local dollar or fabric store, cut the felt into a shamrock shape and sew the shamrock over the bleached spot.
Writing a Speech for Awards Ceremony?
Good queston, Syed. Why not check the internet and youtube for congratulatory speeches for help getting started? Good luck!
Innovative Name for High End Furniture Manufacturer?
If youve already developed a reputation in the high-end market, Roy, why not capitalize on the name recognition and simply add another word or two? If, for instance, your current company is Vilas, why not use something like Custom Design Vilas. You may very...
Gift Ideas for a Senior Citizens' Party?
Why not make something, Dolly? The personal touch is always appreciated and the Internet is full of ideas no matter what your budget. Id recommend consumables, something theyd use and enjoy.
16th Birthday Party Ideas?
The most fun I ever had in early spring (when it was too chilly to be outside standing around), same age as you, was a scavenger hunt. We formed teams and raced around the small city collecting our items before meeting back at our small apartment for hot chocolate...
Christmas Parade Float Ideas?
Heres hoping this sparks some ideas: http://www.npr.org/2012/12/25/167537939/literary-iceland-revels-in-its-annual-christmas-book-flood
Cleaning a 100% Wool Coat at Home?
Hand wash in cool water with extremely mild detergent and not too much of that. If the garment isnt stained, you neednt worry about scrubbing, simply fill your kitchen sink or bathtub with soapy water and dip the item up and down a few times. Id recommend the...
Spider Plant Is Dying?
Of course. And keep an eye on it to make sure the container remains full. Too, if you have little spider shoots, cut them off and set them in their own glasses of water until they take root.
Setting Cleaning Rates?
As to paying your helper? You find the jobs and arrange the work, you buy the cleaning supplies and gas, you pick her up and take her home. I am by no means suggesting you pay her anything less than a fair hourly rate, but Im sure shed also appreciate knowing...
Using Epsom Salt in Copper Bathtub?
I occasionally use Epsom salts to water my plants, Weezy, so I cant imagine a negative impact on you septic system. As to copper? Do you have anything else in the house on which you could do a test? But really, by the time you fill a bathtub with water, a cup...
Brand Name for Cleaning Products?
If youre going to use the Internet to market your products, KashifGhori, choose a brand name which will easily identify your company to people seartching for environmentally friendly, green or non-toxic products. If that is indeed the case, if you are planning...
Fantasy Christmas Parade Van/Float Idea?
Medieval fantasy conjurs up images of King Arthur, Robin Hood, knights fighting dragons .... Have fun!
Microfiber Melted on Hot Pot?
Sounds like a bit of a nightmare, Sister G. Ive not encountered this before and I do use microfiber cloths for a few things around the house. If you have a heat gun or even hair dryer, what do you think about trying to warm up that mess a bit and see if you...
Steel Lid Stuck into a Steel Box?
Good thinking, DCA! Steel doesnt typically expand or contract a lot but it may do the trick. If you could insert or pour grease of some kind between the two, that might help as well. Find someone to help? Two sets of hands on this would make it easier.
Donating Fabric?
Why not contact local quilting groups? The wives of the Knights of Columbus make quilts for those in need, for example. Im sure youll be able to find something similar in Tampa Bay.
Removing White Stains on Dark Wood Laminate Flooring?
Sounds to me it's more than a stain, Anita. The acidic drink mix may have eaten through the finish of your laminate. You can check that by getting on your tummy, with your nose pretty much against the affected area, a very thin knife in hand (being careful...
Electrical Problems in Old Trailer?
Mobile homes / trailers have a different building code / standard. If you've paid attention over the years, you already know fires are very common in this type of residence, partly because the electrical wires used during construction are thinner and not as...
House Cleaning Fees for Service?
As usual, Suds, Im in complete agreement with DCA. (Thats one sharp lady!) However, I would like to add the following. To paraphrase a great lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, no one can take advantage of you without your consent. I'm sorry if that sounds harsh. Saying...
Changing the Color of a Dress Collar?
It is a cute dress, Killer, but I can empathize with you wanting to change the colour. White collars and cuffs seem to show dirt more quickly, don't they (particularly foundation, if you wear it)? I don't know a thing about fabric dyes, but it is an option...
Obtaining a Power of Attorney?
Wheres your dad in all this, Will? Is he able to sign away his POA without dispute?
Legal Responsibility for Aging Estranged Parents?
To the best of my understanding, Justaskin, you are responsible for nothing until and unless you put your signature on documents accepting responsibility. That said, please do not rely on opinions from this or any other site. Talk to a legal professional or...
Acting as Grandfather's POA?
Unfortunately, TGF, there IS such a thing as being too nice. You and your grandfather have that bug, from the sound of things, while your nephew seems like a (currently) useless person. Thats not to say the kid cant change, but hell need help from both you...
Acting as Grandfather's POA?
Unfortunately, TGF, there IS such a thing as being too nice. You and your grandfather have that bug, from the sound of things, while your nephew seems like a (currently) useless person. Thats not to say the kid cant change, but hell need help from both you...
Fast Food Versus Good Food
Thanks kindly for providing clarity, Abigail. Committment to eating healthy foods is less expensive in the long run, too. Those who choose to eat fast food habitually can look forward to such delights as diabetes, heart disease and a host of other problems...
Repairing a Broken Figurine?
Have you considered using a light-gauge wire, Caroline? Make a small cage (like the kind we see holding champagne corks in place), design it so you can tighten it once the glued pieces are in place, but keep it from touching the glue? My only other thought...
Understanding an Abusive Spouse?
Are you asking a question, Jen? May I ask? Abuse can be subtle and I am by no means suggesting your ex treated you badly during the years you were together, but if youre not sure, think about the ways he referred to women. Was he respectful or derogatory? Did...
Christmas Parade Float Ideas?
How about books? Dozens and dozens of books. They represent learning, improved spelling and vocabulary in addition to stimulating our imagination and furthering our education. Youll likely be able to find a great many at local thrift stores. In Iceland, if...
Determining a Cleaning Fee?
Take a look at the place before providing a quote. If someones moving out it could be just a normal cleaning job, but if the landlord / owner has to hire someone, it could also be pretty terrible.
Medicare Dental Coverage?
At the very least, go see your doctor for pain killers as well as (hopefully) something to ease the swelling (if any). The doctor should also be able to address your concerns about related issues and if brain tumours are a potential result of your current problems...
Power of Attorney Responsibilities?
That is an excellent question, Crystal, and good for you being mindful of potential (negative) repurcussions! Does your city have a lawyer referral service? Its usually a way for newly-minted attorneys to get clients, but in so doing they offer 1/2 hour free...
Spots in Dining Room Table Finish?
It may sound weird, Kristin, but mayonnaise might help. My experience? I left a houseplant sitting on my piano bench and put a crocheted doily under the pot. Turns out the doily hid the fact I overwatered and man, what a nasty stain that left! It may even have...
15th Birthday Ideas?
Why not plan to do something you really enjoy with a few of your favourite people? Go to a concert or sporting event, movie or even a bite to eat at your favourite venue? Have fun!
Identifying and Caring for a House Plant?
Yours is a Dracaena marginata, or Madagascar Dragon Tree, and quite lovely! (Mine is a great deal smaller.)
Dispute Over Willow Planted to Close to House?
Gotta love inconsiderate neighbours? (Not.) Does your city have a help line? A resource you can call to inquire about your options?
What is This Plant?
Although I could be mistaken, Theresa, your plants look an awful lot like the succulent aloe vera (or a member of that family). To be on the safe side, keep them indoors and yes, set them in soil. Mine prefer indirect sunlight and regular watering, once a week...
Returning Hair to Natural Color After Dyeing?
Im afraid if you want natural, Emily, youll have to let it grow out. Itll take a while, but your hair will be healthier than if you use bleach.
Shrinking a Leather Skirt?
Soaking leather and wearing it while it dries / conforms to a desired shape works really great with footwear (ever mindful of the shoe or boot being real leather; some of the imitations can fool us). I dont know how well this would work for a skirt, but Im...
Curtain Color Advice?
You know what might be fun, JBrandon? Gradient dye some fabric. If youre at all interested, head over to your nearest fabric store and buy some sheers in light beige material to match your kitchen / dining area. Maybe do just one panel (6 - 7) to see if you...
11th Birthday Ideas?
Im sure shell be delighted to just be doing something with her favourite Auntie, but why not ask her if theres something special shed like to do? If shes a girly girl, she might very much like to have a manicure or high tea (if such can be had close by)? Or...
Getting Rid of a Rattlesnake?
Faith, have you considered contacting City Hall and asking about local resources? For instance, a local zoo might want another specimen for their snake house? Chances are youre not the only one with a similar problem and your local officials very likely have...
Tween Dating?
Have you considered talking to her? Do you know what her feelings are, what her thoughts are about things couples do? You probably dont want to consider it, but many young people are becoming sexually active. Please give some careful thought to the words you...
Selling Homemade Food?
Google will probably provide a few basic pieces of information, Rahul. Laws vary between regions / states / counties, but the start-up costs are not inconsiderable. Like any food outlet, youll want a business license, health inspection certificate and liability...
Gift Ideas for Boyfriend's 15th Birthday?
Have you thought about making something for him, Cassidy? Pinterst has all kinds of great ideas for gifts for boyfriends.
Sleepover Activities For Teenage Boys?
Im pretty sure he likes you for yourself and the things you already have in common, Alex. Why not do more of the things you both like to do? Maybe add a suggestion or two about new things you could both try? Making pizza, for instance, or cooking any food you...
Recoloring Hair?
I think it depends on how strong and healthy your hair is now, Denise. A gfriend of mine did pretty much the same thing and dyed her hair a bit darker pretty much right away (a day or two after the initial colour). Her hair was pretty fine to begin with (natural...
Repurposing a Circular Spice Rack?
If one of your hobbies is sewing, you could organize buttons, ribbons, zippers, pins and other supplies.
Donating Apparel Fabric?
Do you know any quilters? Perhaps consider contacting the rotary club to inquire about their womens group activities? Rotary wives here make quilts for people in distress and welcome any fabric donations.
Area Rug Color Advice?
I think youve got a good, basic colour scheme, Kelsey. (Mine is very similar and I know what you mean about wanting to spice it up a bit.) The roll ends at local fabric stores often provide inexpensive pieces of cloth large enough to make throw pillows. Consider...
Gift Ideas for Boyfriend's Birthday?
If I were him, given that youve moved away, what Id like more than anything would be to see you. Is that possible for you?
Verbally Abusive Husband?
Dear Ragonza, please know you are not alone. But many women who have endured what youre presently tolerating have moved on, moved upward and have taken their lives back. You are most certainly not alone. Please look for help in your community. Find a counsellor...
Determining Cleaning Fees?
Hi, Joy. What do you think about going to the location and getting more information? Would the (potential) client be willing to pay by the hour for the first few times you clean? Once you have an idea of how long it will take to do the work, you can offer a...
Is My Husband Abusive or Am I?
Marianne and Mary covered most of the sensible aspects, Leah, and Im sorry youre having to deal with this crap. If youre hesitating at all about walking away, whether you harbour regrets about his behaviour or yours or if youre at all concered about leaving...
Fee for Cleaning a New Construction House?
Why not get more information, Sally? Have you been to a newly-constructed house? Have you any idea of sawdust and wood scraps or other construction materials laying around? Your quote will depend entirely on the trades people and the mess they leave behind...
Identifying a Houseplant?
Someetimes called Marj or Dragon plant, check Google Images for Dracaena Marginata to double check?
Waxing Facial Hair?
Im sorry to be the one to tell you this, but women, all of us, produce testosterone as well as estrogen (look up hormones on Google). This means we also have to deal with facial hair, and for some women its darker and thicker than others. No blame to you for...
Removing Spray Paint from a Wall?
Hey, Marie. Have you reconsidered buying white paint and painting over the purple?
Finding 11.3 oz. Plastic Folger's Cans?
Why not take pictures of the finished product and advertise for supplies? Post your flyer at grocery stores as well as online telling people why you need the empty containers and where the proceeds go?
18th Birthday Ideas?
What do you think about asking your friends to bring (or invent) non-alcoholic beverages? Hold a contest to see which is best? Music turned up loud, finger foods ...? Happy Birthday!
Value of Antique Pushmower?
The value is what anyone will pay for it, if you can find a buyer. The better value, in my opinion (as I also own one), is that I can mow the lawn any time I like, even early Sunday mornings, without bothering my neighbours. Its also environmentally friendly...
Donating Fabric?
Look into local quilting clubs / groups, especially Rotary or Kinsmen clubs where members wives make quilts for families in need.
Stepmother Gives Me Used Gifts Every Christmas?
Why not simply re-gift the things shes given you? Wrap them in paper and give them back as your gifts to her. If she doesnt get THAT message, why not simply ask her to not give you any gifts at all?
Sharing Car Expenses With Girlfriend?
Well, walking to the shops is great exercise and saves the wear and tear on the car. From the sound of things, the car is falling to pieces anyway, so why not sell it for what you (she) can get instead of throwing good money after bad? Scout around and spend...
Getting Rid of the Rust on Cut Lettuce?
Ascorbic acid. Dissolve it in water and it also helps cut vegetables remain fresh for longer periods. Check Google: its a natural substance.
Name for Fine Arts Business?
Although I agree it can be great fun coming up with cute business names, why not stick with something simple so people who want what youre offering can easily find you?
13th Birthday Ideas?
Thirteen is on the verge of becoming a woman, right? How about something to celebrate that fact? Pedicures, perhaps?
Perm Brushed Straight?
Why not use a spray bottle filled with water, spray your hair and find out just how wavy its going to be? And next time, perhaps ask your stylist to trim before perming?
Inexpensive Gift for Mom's Birthday?
The best gifts dont require money, as you see from the various / numerous responses to your inquiry, Phoebsters. Make something - anything - and Im sure shed be delighted. Promise yourself to tell her you love her once a week. Just think of all the ways you...
Wristlet Lanyard
Thanks kindly for the instructions and photographs! Ive been using a carabiner (less than $2 at the local hardware store) and its pretty handy, too. I can hook it into a pants belt loop or onto a purse strap.
Pine Tree Sap on Lanai Screens?
Hi, Em. Sap is insidious, isnt it. Google has some good answers and heres one that wont cost a lot: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/how-to-remove-tree-sap.htm. Going forward, however, so that you dont have to worry about sap removal on...
Sharing Expenses With Boyfriend?
Congratulations, IMArt, for taking the time to share your concerns. Youve obviously given some thought to the entire matter, and thats great. I particularly like the advice from Dinah and Abigail so cant really add much, except to say if youre fighting now...
What Is This Houseplant?
Dracaena Marginata or Marg or Madagascar Dragon Tree. Check this link for information about caring and propagation: http://www.ourhouseplants.com/plants/dracaena-marginata
Getting Free Materials for Elderly Fire Victim?
Why not contact various building supply companies (hardware stores) and offer free signage at the construction site (i.e., advertising, much like we see on commercial building projects) in exchange for materials. And if you tack on the promise of an article...
Paint Color Advice for Kitchen and Adjoining...
Youve got so many colours and shades, no wonder youre having a tough time! I vote for white on the walls as well as cabinets. Itll make everything look bigger and certainly less busy. As for accents? Window covers, cushions, prints on the walls ....
Restoring an Old Trunk?
I collect these, Jane, and love them for not only room accents but also functionality (one for Christmas decorations, one for gift wrap and bags, one for board games ... you get my drift). Theyve come from various places and sources, one from an uncle who thought...
Heirloom vs Hybrid Seeds
I think youve done a great job, Likekinds, of spelling out the difference between heirlooms and hybrids, but Im not clear on whether you were talking about geneticially modified seeds (such as Monsanto forces down our throats). That said, if you can lay your...
Keeping Neighbor's Cats Away?
Hi, Kristina. Your problem sounds aggravating as well as smelly. What do you think about filing a complaint with your municipal government (city hall)? From the sound of things you might also want to involve animal rescue people (SPCA). Good luck!
Dealing With a Verbally Abusive Husband?
I am absolutely with Dinah on this! Worse than him hitting you (if such a thing is possible)? Youre raising two boys who will grow up to believe its okay for men to hit women. Do you want to be responsible for that? Please look to local organizations who help...
Shopping for an Anniversary/Birthday Reminder Book?
Have you considered making one? So many of us rely on electronics these days for not only special occassion reminders but also sending e-cards, but Im delighted to hear someone still sends cards. Lovely! If you cant find the reminder book, why not stop by a...
Cleaning Shower Head?
You neednt remove the shower head, Earl. Find a bowl big enough for the shower head (preferably plastic, in case the bowl slips off the edge of the tub), put vinegar and baking soda in the bowl, detach the shower head and hose from the wall (as if you were...
