Pansies After the Rain
They are gorgeous - my favorite flower. Thank you for sharing. Joan from Michigan
Pan Fried Tilapia
I serve Tilapia often. It is easy, quick and delicious and goes well with any side dish.
Valentine's Day on a Shoestring Budget
Cornflour (or cornstarch) is the main ingredient in packaged pudding mix. Birds custard is delicious - I should know - it was a popular dessert in England (during WW2) and I grew up on it. I am now 88 years old and still going strong! Enjoy whatever you have...
Great Beef Stew
I have never heard of Oscar, but I have a mini food processor that fits on to my Oster Blender (purchased back in the 60s!) Its the most useful gadget in my kitchen! Forty years of use and still going strong!
DIY Lazy Susan with Marbles
Sounds like a great idea - I am definitely going to try this. Thanks for the tip.
Double Chocolate Toffee Cookies
Sounds delicious, but I dont see flour in the ingredients list. Am I missing something?
Chicken Amongst the Vegetables
I just love that picture - brought back a lot of old memories. Joan - also from England!! (long time ago)
Our Runner Ducks (Weeks 7 and 8)
The ducks are beautiful - and so are your pictures. You have done a great job! Hope you win this contest!
Our Runner Ducks (Week 6)
They are so cute - and growing so fast! Thank you for posting their progress.
Lemon and Baking Soda for Cleaning Microwave
This method works - even without the lemon - just a tablespoon of baking soda.
Camp Cooking with Tealights
This is a great idea, especially for those times when there is a power outage and there is no way to heat food or water.
Getting Rid of Black Bugs in Kitchen?
Try using diatomaceous earth. It is available from Home Depot or Lowes. Ask for the food grade type - which is non toxic and will not harm children or animals. Sprinkle it along the back of your counters and around the baseboards or anywhere you see the bugs...
Adult Child Distancing Himself from Mother?
I am 85 years old, so you know I have been there and done that. The best advice I can give is to stop e-mailing and texting him. After a while he will wonder why he hasnt heard from you and will be in touch. Tell him how busy you are and have very little time...
What Breed is My Dog?
I cant tell you what breed he is, but he sure is cute. How can people be so cruel to animals? Bless you for rescuing him.
Masking Paint with Press and Seal
Hi Helen - from Manchester. Press & Seal is roll of plastic wrap (I believe you call it cling-film in the U.K.) I daresay you could find something similar in your stores over there. Good luck. Joan from Chesterfield, Michigan.
Keeping a Grasshopper as a Pet?
Hi MJH: If you were able to go to an insect scientist I am sure he would tell you to be kind to the grasshopper and let him go free. He is not happy living in a jar - would you be? - He needs to be out there in the grass, hopping around with the rest of his...
Prevent Underarm Odor With Antibacterial Soap
Read up on anti bacterial soaps. They are being over used and encouraging the germs to become stronger. Regular soap and deodorant is the better way to go.
Rich and Boozy Christmas Pudding
This has to come from England! It took me back to my childhood - back in the 40s! I remember my Mother mixing up all the same ingredients for the Christmas puddings. Then they would be boiled in the copper - the same one used for boiling up the white clothes...
Treating a Cat for Worms?
Try using pill pockets. You will find them at the pet store or in the pet department of a grocery store. I dont know what they are made of, but cats seem to love them. You just tuck the pill into the pocket and offer it as a treat. Do check with your vet to...
Getting Rid of Microscopic Mites (No See 'ems)?
Google diatomaceous earth. It is a non toxic powder that can be used for all kinds of crawling insects. It works well for fleas, ants, etc. You can order it from Home Depot or other hardware stores. Be sure to ask for the food grade type., then you can use...
2nd Birthday Party Ideas?
You dont say how old you are, but its nice that you are planning your sisters birthday party. As she is only 2 years old, she will not know whether she is having a golden birthday - just a regular birthday. Whatever you do, keep it simple with a theme she will...
17th Birthday Gift for Boyfriend?
Find out what brand of drumsticks he uses and buy him some new ones. Otherwise, a gift card to a local music store might be a good idea.
Finding a Vet That Takes Payments?
I would suggest you call your local animal shelter or humane society and explain the situation and hopefully they will be able to help you. Good luck.
Antibiotics for a Puppy With Parvo?
There is no do-it-yourself treatment for parvo. Please get advice from a veterinarian before the parvo spreads to the other puppies and your other animals. Look it up on Google to see how contagious it is.
Humanely Getting Rid of Mouse in Car?
I have heard that mice hate peppermint. You might want to try a box of the really strong mints (Altoids) - in a red and white tin. They are extra strong and maybe a handful of these sprinkled around in the car might do the trick. Good Luck!
What is Living a Frugal Life About?
I really enjoyed your article, Shirley. It brought back many memories to this old ex-pat. The back yard (garden) looked so English and reminded me of my in-laws garden many years ago - complete with dog. I loved the part about the hot water bottle under the...
Ideas For A Sweet 16?
I dont see how you can go out of town and have a hotel party without spending a LOT of money. Maybe its time to re-think your wants. Happy birthday!
Mockingbird and Osprey (Marco Island, FL)
Great picture! Its amazing how much courage small birds have when big ones invade their territory. I have often seen small birds chase off larger ones when they come too near their nest. Maybe they dont realize how much smaller they are.
Using Hedge Apples for Pest Control?
I have read a lot on line about hedge apples, but have seen nothing about cutting them in half. I cannot locate a source for buying them, so if you have them or know where to get them, would you please post the info. on Thrifty Fun. I hear they are very good...
Cleaning A Smooth Top Stove Surface
I am of the older (much older) generation and do no take too well to change, but I love my smooth top stove. You have to clean up spills as soon as they cool off and I find that good old baking soda and water does the best job. If the spill is really bad, I...
Finding a Lost Relative?
The Salvation Army used to have a program for finding lost relatives. I dont know if they still do, but it would be worth a call to your local branch to find out. Good luck.
Electric Smoke Detector Keeps Chirping?
Yes, the electric ones do have a battery - its a backup battery for when the power goes off. We recently had the same thing happen and when we changed the battery, the chirping stopped. Hope this works for you.
Removing Cat Urine Odor from a Couch?
Try spraying it with a solution of half white vinegar and half water. Sponge it off and let it dry thoroughly - outdoors if possible. If this doesnt work, I would suggest calling a professional furniture cleaner. Good Luck!
Child Support and SSI?
Call or visit your local Social Security Office. They are the only ones who can answer this question for you.
Roaches in a Used Couch?
Sounds like this couch could be infested with roaches. Call in an exterminator as soon as possible, otherwise you will have them all over the house. The bug sprays you buy at the store will not get rid of them. Believe me - I used to live in the south!
Reviews of Cordless Stick Vacuums?
I also have wood laminate floors, and I know what you mean about every speck of dirt, etc. showing up. I have a Eureka stick vacuum. Its very lightweight (Im 85) and easy to use and does a great job on bare floors. Its not meant for rugs and carpet though. Hope...
Egg Crates for Veggie Storage
What a great tip - especially as I have just cleaned out a gooey, squishy cucumber that somehow got lost in the veggie drawer! Thanks Kelli.
Home Remedies for Diabetic Foot Swelling?
Your Mother needs to go back to her doctor. These are serious health conditions and cannot be answered on line. Talk to her doctor and be sure to follow his advice regarding medication and diet. Let us know how she is doing.
ASPCA Vaccination Truck Schedule for Queens?
If you Google ASPCA Vaccination Truck Schedule, you will get lots of information,. Also, there is a number you can call - 877-772-9692. Good luck!
Remedy for Night Leg Cramps?
I know this sounds crazy, but try putting a small bar of soap between the mattress and bottom sheet. It actually helps!
Sun Burn Remedy?
Have you tried pure Aloe Vera Gel (NOT lotion). If this doesnt work you should see a doctor as you dont want to get it infected.
How to Get Rid of Roaches?
My daughter has had success using Catnip. Just sprinkle it around the areas where you see the bugs. Also, this is non-poisonous and will not harm pets or people.
Making a Pom Pom With a Fork
This seems so much easier that using a pom-pom maker. Many thanks for the clear instructions.
In Memory of Dutchess
Hi Robyn; So sorry to hear about your loss. Even though Dutchess can never be replaced, I am sure there is another lucky dog out there who will find a place in your loving home. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Importance of Journaling
How true this is. I have lived for 84 years in many different places and have seen so many changes take place in my lifetime, I regret not recording any of it. When we are young we think we havent got time to fit one more thing into our long day, but to all...
Dishonest Hairdresser?
I go to Fantastic Sams and get a cut, shampoo and style for $23.00. They always do a good job and I really like not having to make an appointment. Give them a try if there is one in your area.
Cleaner to Deter Dog from Urinating on Carpet?
I dont know if you can use it in a steam cleaner, but equal parts of white vinegar and water sprayed on the area where the dogs have urinated will stop them from going there again. I would check with the manufacturer to see if its safe to use vinegar in the...
Tips and Name Ideas for Home Cleaning Business?
Hi Kayla: Im afraid I cant give you any advice about starting a cleaning business, but just want to wish you good luck in your new endeavor. You sound like an ambitious young lady and I am sure you will be successful. Best wishes to you and your family.
Finding a Lost Family Member?
The Salvation Army helped us find a lost family member some years ago. I dont know if they still offer this service, but it would be worth a try. Good Luck.
Writing a Thank You Note?
From one Grandma to another - good luck on that one! Things are not like they used to be. We have to keep up with the texting and the social networks, otherwise we are out of the loop. Maybe the answer is to just e-mail them good wishes for their birthdays...
Turnip for Worms in Cats?
I dont know about turnip, but we do give our cat pumpkin (canned) with her food every day. She eats mostly dry food, but once a day she gets about a tablespoon of canned cat food mixed with the same amount of pumpkin and a little canned tuna. Its supposed to...
Unclogging a Sink With a Garbage Disposal?
(format_html)When my disposal sink will not drain, its usually because of vegetable peelings stuck in the u-bend under the sink. I find that a plunger works best (baking soda and vinegar will not remove peelings). If you have a double sink, close the drain...
Dole Pineapple Cake Recipe?
I recently saw a recipe which used a pkg. of Angel Food cake mix and a can of crushed pineapple. You just mix them together (no other ingredients) and bake as directed on package. I tried it and it was pretty good, but very sweet - even with the juice-packed...
Dog Chews on Everything?
How often does he get off the leash? If he is tied up all the time, the poor dog is bored to tears and is chewing out of frustration. Dogs are social animals and need attention and exercise. Take him for walks and play with him - you might find that solves...
Tahquamenon Falls (Upper Peninsula, Michigan)
Fantastic pictures! The colors in Michigan in the Fall are hard to beat. I feel lucky to live here. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
Finding a Lost Relative?
Some years ago I read that the Salvation Army will help you find a lost relative. I contacted our local branch and, sure enough, they located my brother-in-law with whom we had lost contact. At the time they only charged a small fee and it was certainly worth...
Ivy (German Shorthair Pointer)
Ivy is so cute! German Shorthairs are the best dogs ever. We had two of them when our boys were little. My husband took our boys to pick out one puppy from a litter of two. Needless to say, they couldnt leave one behind, so we ended up with two. Thank goodness...
Replacement Cord for Sunbeam Electric Blanket?
If you Google replacement cord for Sunbeam Electric Blanket you will get lots of information on buying a new cord. Also check Walmart.com. If you live near a Walmart you could pick it up at the store and save the delivery charge. Either way, it would be a lot...
Replacing a Missing Volume from an Old Encyclopedia Set?
Even if you found the missing volume, the set would be worth very little, if anything. Encyclopedias have been replaced by the internet.
Recovery Time for a Cat with Urinary Blockage?
I dont know if this would help with a bladder problem, but I was told to add about a tablespoon of pure pumpkin (NOT pie filling) to some canned cat food and feed it to him once a day. It seems to have kept our cats plumbing working well for the past few years...
Toby (Chihuahua)
Toby is a beautiful dog and he is so lucky to have you to take good care of him. Give him a big hug from me. Joan from Chesterfield, MI
In Memory of Belle (Xoloitzcuintli)
Belle was beautiful and, obviously, a great reader! Thanks for sharing.
Whiskers (Domestic Medium Hair)
What a delightful story! Blessings to you and your family and, of course, to Whiskers!
A Visitor In Our Garden (Santa Barbara, CA)
What a beautiful kitty - looks like he approves of your garden. Wouldnt you love to know what he is thinking?
Jeremiah (Black American Shorthair Cat)
Jeremiah is beautiful. He surely is a lucky black cat to have found you and your loving home. Enjoy him.
The Boogaboo Bunch (Rhode Island Red Mix)
They are adorable. I will look forward to hearing about their progress.
Bubble and Squeak
This is a little different from the Bubble & Squeak I had as a child in England - many years ago! Monday was always washday, which was a big deal in those days with no washers and dryers - and even worse when it rained (which was often) and the laundry had...
Mishka (Cat)
How wonderful that you found each other - Mishka is a beautiful cat. Bless you for feeding and taking care of her. She really does look like she has an air of mystery about her - give her a big hug from me!
Always Remember Your Own Pen
I agree with everyone who thinks we are becoming obsessive about sanitizing everything. Of course, its just common sense to wash hands after using the bathroom and after visits to doctors offices, etc. but the only way to build up immunity is to be exposed...
Restoring Shine to Dull Laminate Floor?
I find that mopping with vinegar and water or steam cleaning works very well, but the floor must be thoroughly dried or it will be streaky. I tie a towel to my dust mop and dry each section as I clean it. Seems like a lot of work, but its worth it and I only...
Remedy for Sore Tongue?
One of the best things I have found is to rinse your mouth with salt water. One tsp. salt to about 8 oz. warm water. Use it several times a day. Im sure you will find it to be effective.
Identifying Small White Biting Bugs?
Call a local pest control service and ask if they will come out and give you a free estimate on what it would take to get rid of them. At least they might tell you what they are. Good luck.
Value of 1902 Encyclopaedia Britannica?
Unless you can find someone who collects old encyclopedias, they probably have no value. Try posting on Craigs List to see if anyone is interested.
How We Keep the Santa Magic Alive
Such lovely Christmas traditions - your girls will always remember them. Merry Christmas!
My Frugal Life: The Best Things in Life Are Free - or Nearly
I so enjoyed your post, Lucy, although it made me a little homesick for the English countryside - there is nothing quite like it. Enjoy!
Substitute for Crisco or Shortening?
I remember something called Spry. When I lived in the U.K. Remember, shortening does not need refrigeration, so you will not find it with the butter or lard. It will probably be with the cooking oil or baking ingredients.
