Uses for Styrofoam?
Large pieces of polyethylene foam are particularly valuable for those of us who make bobbin lace. Check out your local needle / handicraft guilds?
Cloves and Oranges as Thanksgiving Decoration
And if you put one in the oven at the lowest possible temperature, your entire house will smell heavenly.
Writing Down What You Need to Remember
Im in absolute agreement with you, Linda, and maintain that once written down, my brain is less cluttered and thus free to be more creative. One of my favourite solutions involves a fat little empty notebook from the dollar store. I add tabs on pages to indicate...
Headache Cures?
Stress and low levels of oxygen in the bloodstream contribute to many headaches. Deep breathing, fresh air, walking (not ambling), yoga and light exercise will help alleviate many problems.
How can I get rid of the magpies but keep the rest of the birds?
We have this problem as well and the folk at our City (Calgary) helpline recommended the following (humane) options. Keep a loaded water gun handy on the deck and shoot the birds whenever you see them. (Pellets or scatter shot from other types of guns could...
Clothing Ironing Tips?
Im with Jo Body on this: unless you enjoy the chore, dont iron. Although it requires a bit of extra time and effort while doing laundry, dont over-dry garments. Use the air dry or fluff setting on the dryer or stop it while your clothes are still damp. Hang...
Pirate Party Invitations and Ideas
I wish youd asked the advertisor for their permission. They may have paid an artist and asked you for a few dollars for the artwork, but they may also have said, Go ahead, and thanks for asking. Out and out taking what wasnt yours? How would you feel?
Low Fat Homemade Biscuits?
Baking Powder Biscuits (my Grandmothers recipe, adapted by me to obliterate fat content): Preheat oven to 450' F. Apply a light spray of PAM to muffin tin or cookie-sheet with PAM. Mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt...
Low Fat Homemade Biscuits?
Rose Anne's Baking Powder Biscuits Preheat oven to 450' F. Lightly spray muffin tin or with PAM and wipe with paper towel to ensure thin albeit even coverage. Mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir well. Add 3 heaping...
Where Can I Buy Borax?
Ive fond it at Wal-Mart, Chantal. But I had to ask for help (it was tucked way in the back, behind other laundry detergents). Superstore carries it as well, I believe.
Chocolate Stain on Suede?
Use an old toothbrush, dont brush too hard (at first). If necessary, stick the garment in the fridge for a bit before continuing to brush away as much as possible. Thereafter, run cold water onto the affected area. Continue brushing. If its a dark stain on...
Publishing a Recipe Book?
If at any point youre thinking to sell your book, apply to the library of congress for a (free) ISBN number. You can do the printing yourself, if youre thinking small circulation (and have the time to stand at the copy machine). Alternatively, you should have...
Healthy Snacks Ideas?
Have you ever tried garbanzo beans (a.k.a., chick peas)? Theyre available in grocery store bulk bins, dried, and these are much better than the canned version (which are pre-cooked and usually over-cooked). One of my favourite snacks is to soak and cook them...
Making a Bootie Bag From Jeans?
I love these! Thanks for the link, Ellen. Old jeans are just too interesting to throw away or even recyley (to fabric mashers). Yep, Ive been using the legs for fun bags, but Boot Bags are just too cool! As to stiffening and hard bottoms? Balsa wood is light...
Recipes Using Honey?
Honey Mustard Chicken Use chicken breasts or thighs (boneless or not, skinless or not). place chicken pieces in a pot of cold water, enough to cover meat. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook at a rolling boil for 10 minutes. If using frozen chicken...
Healthy Party Food Ideas?
Isabel, Hi! Good for you for thinking to provide healthy snacks. Your parents are pretty smart, I think (although it might be a few years before you appreciate the fact). Baked pretzels, available in the junk food section of your grocery store, are very tasty...
Homemade Christmas Presents for Adults?
Good for you for getting away from the commercialization of Christmas, ShellR! Ive been doing this (providing home-made gifts for family and friends) for years! And I love it! And recipients love it, too (each item was made by me and obviously involved time...
Hanging Pictures on Brick?
Our fireplace is stone, Alan. And we had the same concern. The picture we wanted to hang was reasonably heavy (framed). We have a drill, asked at the local hardware store for advice on drill bits and made a hole in the mortar. Therafter, we used a special kind...
How Long Can a Lasagna be Frozen?
Nancy, Hi. Im not sure about the recommended length of time (you may want to check with your local beef marketing organization), but I do know that if you double-wrap it (two plastic bags, openings at opposite ends, remove as much air as possible and seal it...
School Fundraising in a Rural Community?
Hey, Marnae. Another advantage of your small school (if you dont realize) is the quality of the education you receive. From the way you write, your grammar and clarity, I can tell your teachers are doing a great job! On to fund-raising ideas. Here, where I...
Choosing a Floor and Countertops That Go Together?
Sounds like fun, Jean. Do you have favourite colours? Earth tones are so comfortable, I agree, and easy to decorate around. By that I mean you can choose tan-colour flooring and an almond-coloured countertop, even paint your walls beige. But for colour (not...
Removing Rust From Glass?
Youll need elbow grease and an SOS pad, Gordon. Be suer to clean the glass thoroughly in hot soapy water afterward. Cheers, Rose Anne
Fishy Smell In My Bathroom?
Im guessing you have a below-the-scenes water leak, Mandy. Pipe fittings may be loose and water may be seeping into your sub-flooring. It may cost a few dollars (better a few now than many more, later), but Id suggest you have a plumber come in to take a look...
Five Year Diary?
Im with mobo on this one, Amy. My Sister and Nieces have pretty much given up trying to find them. Theyve chosen other alternatives, instead. Office supply stores carry hard-coover notebooks. My neice Amy likes to write a lot so she chose a binder and looseleaf...
Decorating a Deck?
At this time of year, Glenda, you might be able to find a good price on patio furntiure (chairs with cushions, a table with an umbrella). And will you have room for a barbecue? My deck is rather small so I put all my planters on the railing around the deck...
Uses for Beeswax?
If you make chocolates at home, beeswax is a wonderful thing to have. You know how store-bought chocolate doesnt melt in your fingers? The manufacturers use wax (and not necessarily beeswax, either).
Buying Flocked Birds?
Heres another link you might like to try, Joyce. Their prices are incredibly good. www.galeswholesale.com Cheers, Rose Anne
Salted Nut Fudge?
At first I thought you were asking for an Almond Bark recipe, Bonnie (and perhaps you are). Heres a good one with which Ive had good success. (from http://southernfood.about.com/od/candyrecipes/r/blbb364.htm) INGREDIENTS: 1 cup (6 ounces) blanched whole almonds...
Uses for Cardboard Egg Flats?
I use them to keep my beading supplies organized, Paula Jo. One colour in each divet. Makes working with them very easy. Same goes for jewellery findings (all the little hooks and rings). If you dont bead or make jewellery, perhaps other small craft supplies...
Gift Ideas for My Ailing Ex-Husband?
If hes living in assisted care, Willem (in addition to the other great suggestions already provided), I cant imagine the food is wonderful. Is it permitted to bring food to him? His favourite meals? Treats he can snack on, things you or your children might...
Making 40 Gallons of Tea?
Do you have a 40-gallon container, Jane? Or are you going to make many batches of tea in smaller containers? At any rate, your local kitchen supply store should carry tea balls (little metal balls which unscrew in the middle so we can add tea leaves). Alternatively...
99th Birthday Party Ideas?
Church basements or community halls usually have cooking facilities, Windella. Surely your yellow pages will have listings? Even if you have to go out of town a few miles? 99 years old! Thats something! If you tried a google.com search for centerpieces appropriate...
Painting Faux Finish Cabinets?
Check your local hardware store for advice, Kathy. (People who work there are usually most helpful.) It may involve not only cleaning the cabinets thoroughly, but also sanding them a bit before applying paint. Good luck! Rose Anne
How can I stop my nails from splitting?
Three months ago, SOS, I started taking gelatin capsules (available at my local pharmacy and even the vitamin aisle at my grocery store). Its made one heck of a difference! And its easier than eating Jello every day. Good luck! Rose Anne
Make Your Own Bean Bag Chairs?
Here are a few links, Carol. http://www.budget101.com/Crafts/fcp2.htm http://www.sewyoungsewfun.com/freeprojects/beanbag/beanbag.html These are free, and all I did was go to www.google.com and enter free pattern for bean bag chair. Theres are a lot of great...
Homemade Onion Rings?
Buy sweet onions, cut the rings fairly thick, spearate them, put them in a large bowl, cover with water, add ice cubes, refrigerate for 6 hours. INGREDIENTS: 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 large sweet onions, sliced 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon...
Homemade Onion Rings?
Sorry, Paula Jo. Forgot to mention. Drain and pat dry the rings before dipping in batter. Cheers, Rose Anne
Adding Less Dressing to Your Salad
Love these tips, ladies. Thanks! Low-fat dressings are better tasting all the time and hey, heres my little tip. Pour a tablespoon of dressing into a small bowl, add a tablespoon of spiced vinegar (or even lemon juice), stir and add to salad. Nice and light...
Wrapping Roots Around a Hawaiian Umbrella Tree?
Hi, Linda. The Latin (proper) name for my tree is Arboricola schefflera, although mine isnt the dwarf variety. (Sorry about that; I should have thought to mention it, before.) No fruit, no bloom (not in the 25 years Ive owned it) and no vine. The roots are...
Wrapping Roots Around a Hawaiian Umbrella Tree?
Id love to chat with you at greater length, Lynda. You sound fascinating! My personal e-mail is wordswork AT telusplanet.net if youd care to be in touch. Thanks kindly for the recommendations (particuarly the coffee grounds and kelp spray). I have repotted...
Grade School Pioneer Crafts?
As kids, we used to have a lot of fun making miniature covered wagons (using wooden mandarin orange boxes), using small branches for the wheels and support for canvas covers. Twigs made great pretend campfires and we really had to read a lot of different things...
Becoming a Mystery Shopper?
For insight into the process and recommendations about legitimate companies, see http://www.clickjobsreview.com/mystery-shopper.html Good luck! Cheers, Rose Anne
Adding Eggs to Custard or Pudding?
The best way, Bonnie, is to use a double-boiler. Do you have one? If not, can you jury-rig a bowl which fits over the rim of any of your pots? Put some water in the pot, fit the bowl on top, heat the water to boiling and reduce heat to medium-low (keep the...
Adapting Knit and Crochet Patterns?
As one who love to crochet, I empathize with your interest, Caress11. Check your local library for back issues of the magazine? The only other things I can think of (and Ive considered these for myself) is to either take a course from a local crafter/shop, join...
Categories for Coupons?
HI, Tammy. Ive found it really helps to know your grocery store (and know yourself/shopping habits as well). For instance, I start with fresh produce and baked goods, procede to canned good and baking supplies and finish off at the cooler section with meats...
Bison French Onion Dip Recipe (Copycat)?
A very good and reasonably inexpensive substitute may be simply a 2-cup tub of sour cream mixed with 1 envelope of Liptons dry Onion Soup Mix. We find it very tasty (with chips, vegetables, baked spuds.) Cheers, Rose Anne
Creamy Potato Salad
Have you tried the no-fat versions? All the flavour, substantially less impact on our weight .... No-fat yoghurt is nice as well. Cheers, Rose Anne
My Frugal Life - Lessons From The Amish
Well done, Amy! And Im glad youre at home with the kids (the most important job in the world, I think). Others, racing off - and holding two jobs, exactly as Ole Lulu says - neglect the development of good human beings for the sake of the stuff. Im glad to...
Deep Frying a Turkey Tips?
SOrry, forgot to mention: if you dont like the flavour of roasted turkey (or roasted anything) add ... mustard, chutney, spices/herbs. Much healthier. ~) Rose Anne
Installing Hardwood Floor Over Vinyl Tile?
Why not consult the experts at Home Depot or your local hardware store? Cheers, Rose Anne
Herb Dressing Chicken Breast Recipe?
Hi, Jo. Heres my recipe for spices/herbs. Why not try it in with a can of chicken rice soup, chicken pieces (breasts or thighs) and your favourite vegetables (fresh or frozen)? Ive lso include my curried chicken recipe. INstead of curry, use the spice mix? Curry...
Preventing Material From Sliding When Sewing?
Use pins, two-sided tape (available at your fabric shop and easily removable). Keep a firm grip on your materials, keep the sewing machine speed to a minimum (slow) and - if need be - take it one stitch at a time. The only other thing I can think of is to pin...
Party Game Ideas?
Good luck with that, Tasha! (Do you remember those as being the most horrific years of your life? I do!) But maybe with girls, it wont be so bad (if you can get all of them aboard). Fashion- and jewellery-oriented things would work, I think. How about hair...
Homemade Slimming Cream?
Im in full agreement with hsorbits (the previous posting), Sophia. Good for you! And keep at it! That said, I do empathize with wanting to get rid of cellulite (that nasty cottage cheese thaing which seems to grow on upper thighs and bums). And Ive found a...
Repairing Dining Room Chairs Vs. Buying New?
Holly, Hi. I like Paulas ideas about replacing the cane with other materials. Have you given any thought to taking a refinishing class at a local community college or tech. school? The cost for such a course would be minimal and you could learn to refinish...
Crochet Pattern for a Girls Hat?
Check out the companies who sell yarn goods? www.bernat.com, www.thecatsmeowyarns.com and the like. Also go to www.google.com and enter the search words, free crochet patterns hats. Good luck! Cheers, Rose Anne
Willow Trees Growing Near Sewer Drains?
www.southeastwater.com.au/sewl/upload/document/treeroots.pdf and www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/info_tiledrains.htm provide detailed information on the harmful effects of willows (and other water-hungry trees). The second link lists alternatives (trees...
White Bread Recipe?
I only have one question. Why on earth does anyone want to eat white bread anymore? Now that we know the essentail, nutritional value of multi- and whole-grains? Try the whole-grain variety for ... 3 weeks? And tell me it doesnt taste better? Cheers, Rose Anne
Scones With Dried Cherries?
I would suggest a simple baking powder biscuit recipe, Maryeileen. Mine is an ultra-low-fat but very tasty variant to which you could easily add any fruit, fresh, frozen or dried. Baking Powder Biscuits Preheat oven to 450 F. Spray muffin tin or cookie-sheet...
Ponderosa Key Lime Dessert?
Is it in any way similar to the Jello key-lime pudding (which is pretty darn terrific, particularly when shaved almonds are added)? If I remember correctly, the Jello key-lime pudding box included the recipe for a key-lime bundt cake (also very tasty). ~)
I.D. Theft Insurance
Ive often considered almost every kind of insurance as an attempt to scam us all. With the exception of liability, where penalties can climb into the millions, putting the amount of our premiums in the bank and leaving it there to collect interest is insurance...
Potato Recipes?
Spuds are like bread, rice or pasta: a staple, and easy to cook yet versatile enough to accompany any meal. Essentially, use a brush or coarse scrubber to wash your potatoes. I dont peel mine as the majority of nutrients live right beneath the skin. Cut then...
Crochet Sleeveless Top?
You might also try the websites of companies which manufacture and sell wool and crochet supplies. Many of them provide free patterns. Or go to www.google.com and enter free crochet patterns for quite a number of sites to visit. www.lionbrand.com www.coatsandclark...
Cleaning Leather Clothing?
Ive had great success tossing leather garments in the washing machine; gentle cycle, cold water, minimal mild detergent. Hang to dry. Good luck! Cheers, Rose Anne
Honey Maid Graham Cracker Chocolate Cake Recipe?
http://www.nabiscoworld.com/Recipes/default.aspx (the manufacturers of Honey Maid) Cheers, Rose Anne
Minimizing Diseases in Vegetable Gardens?
Youll have to do a little research, but the information is readily available online, at your library and through a magazine/publishing company called The Good Earth. The trick is Companion Planting. For instance, plant a row of marigolds beside your spuds and...
Attach Interfacing For Long Lasting Sewing Patterns
With respect to pattern longevity? Keep those Christmas wrap cardboard rolls and use them to store patterns instead of folding.
Advertising a New Website?
Hey, Kellye. Are you familiar with something called contra? Its an exchange or barter of services. If you can find a professional whos business is publicizing web sites, someone interested in your goods or services, you can do an exchange (no cash involved...
Removing Decals From A Motorhome?
Hey, Dawn. Nailpolish remover also works quite well, particularly if you can figure out how to soak the area and keep it soaked for half an hour or so. Good luck! Rose Anne (from Calgary)
Putting Pictures on a Backpack?
Hi, Lisa. A good friend of mine just made a quilt using old photographs. She was able to scan them into her computer and then print them ... on fabric! To the best of my knowledge she doesnt have a special printer, but used a special type of fabric. Alternatively...
How To Care For Shasta Daisies?
Up here in Canada they are most definitely a weed. Many of my family are farmers and and hate shasta daisies which are not only insidious but remarkably hardy. Theyre difficult to get rid of! The point of my comments? If farmers up here try everything to kill...
How to Avoid Pilling on Clothes and Sheets?
Hi, Sheila. Ive found that if I wash my sweaters and other knitted items separately, they dont pill as badly. Towels, for instance, seem to be the worst for forming pills on sweaters. Too, after fluff / air drying sweaters for only a few minutes, I lay them...
Alternatives to Plastic Water Bottles?
Use glass bottles. Not that this source necessarily has all or even the right answers, but it is a good place to begin: http://environment.about.com/od/healthenvironment/a/plastic_bottles.htm or you can simply scroll down on this feed.
Inexpensive Patio Decorating Ideas?
Empty food tins, instead of being recycled can by upcycled into luminaries. Clean and remove labels then use a hammer and nail or metal punch or ice pick (anything sharp enough to make a hole) to carefully punch holes in the sides of the cans without making...
Recycling Newspaper Throughout The House
My mother uses newspaper to make small containers for seedlings. When the small plants are ready to set in the soil, she simply places the entire paper container (newsprint, dirt and bedding plant) directly into the ground. She does advise, however, that pages...
Caring for House Plants?
Good for you, Paula, being open to trying again! As one who loves houseplants and has a collection numbering more than 40, Ill happily recommend a few easy ones. As you become more confident over time, dont be afraid to try others? Start with ivy and / or pothos...
Home Remedy for Constipation?
If youre system gets clogged, consider what youre eating. Red meat, such as steaks, are difficult to digest. Drink more water (8 ounces per 20 lbs.) each day. Definitely eat more raw / fresh veg and fruit. If eating bread, choose multi-grain. Lastly, my grandmother...
Money for Pop Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Plant Dying After Repotting?
Its definitely a golden pothos, Krista, and I can empathize. I recently repotted my two and they werent happy either. For the first little while, leaves turned yellow and wilted, but I persevered and tried not to worry. The watering schedule here is ~1/2 cup...
Aspirin and Lemon for Acne
Thanks for this, Metroplex! Reading others' responses and suggestions was also great. I wish I'd known you all or had access to this information when it was a problem for me, but now that I'm (thankfully) past that, I would like to proffer one small suggestion...
Ideas for Getting Heavy Grocery Items into the House?
Grocery stores and other retailers are keeping a close eye on us aging baby boomers. If we have trouble shopping, they lose income. An increasing number are offering free delivery which, of course, includes bringing all the bags inside. Pick up the phone and...
Wildlife Eating Newly Planted Tulip Bulbs?
Shooting a stream of water at the little buggers isnt illegal but is a good deterent. Try it and see (it works for me).
Saving Money on Electricity
Thanks to all of you for the pointers! For those of us who live in the north (Canada), hanging freshly-washed clothing to dry indoors, in the winter, is a great way to add humidity, something we badly need during the cold months. Summer days can be hot here...
Vietnamese Sesame Rice Cracker
Do you have Vietnamese restaurants close by? Spring rolls are common on their appetizer menus and they buy the wrappers somewhere. Perhaps theyll tell you their source or sell some to you?
Starting a Campfire or Charcoal in a BBQ Grill
Look into making a charcoal chimney. Check Google. Use a can opener to remove the top and bottom of a large coffee can, use a hammer to punch 2 nail holes to insert bent wire (a coat hanger works well) for a handle. Set the chimney in place (your firepit or...
Chain Clothes Drying Line
Hardware stores also carry plastic chain which not only doesnt rust but is much lighter to hang.
Selling Pop Can Tabs in Canada?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Soda Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Pull Tabs Recycling in South Africa?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Can Pull Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Pop Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Pop Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Can Pull Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Soda Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling My Pop Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Ideas for Crafts using Wire Coat Hangers?
Check out your local dollar store for yarn. Colour doesnt matter. If you dont crochet, find a youtube tutorial for single crochet stitch. Cover the hanger with yarn using the single crochet stitch and youll have an excellent solution for hanging silky garments...
Selling Pop Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Recycling or Reusing Wire and Plastic Hangers?
Those of us who wear sweaters, especially the thinner ones which show fold marks, like to hang these garments. Instead of buying expensive hangers for this purpose, I use wire hangers and dollar store yarns; one basic of any colour and the second a prettier...
Selling Aluminum Pop Can Tops?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Pop Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork at telus.net.
Selling Pop Can Tabs?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Selling Pop Tabs in Cape Town?
I buy beer and pop can tabs and will pay half a penny a piece (i.e., 1,000 tabs = $5). Ship them (at your expense by the least costly method) to me. For more information and shipping address, contact wordswork@telus.net.
Value of a Thomas Kinkade Library Print?
Why not try buying one just to see what others might be asking?
Company Appreciation Day Activities?
Why not contact local service providers / small businesses? Most have promotional budgets and could provide things like movie passes for two, a $5 gift card for coffee (Tim Hortons or Starbucks), a complementary yoga class or round of golf and so forth in exchange...
Verbally and Physically Abusive Husband?
My sister went through something very similar, Maya, and Im sorry youre having to deal with this, too. Unfortunately, my sister endured it for several years, but she finally left when she realized she didnt want her daughters (two of them) to grow up thinking...
Applying for a Babysitting Job?
Good luck with the interview, Kassie! Im sure youll be great. I think it might not hurt to mention youre nervous. That way, if youre fidgeting or sweaty, shell understand. Try to be confident and remember you know how to do a good job? Make eye contact when...
Power of Attorney and Parent in Nursing Home?
Im sorry youre dealing with such a tough situation, Robert. And I certainly hope the voice of reason will prevail. Can you talk to your folks and help them understand the wisdom of not going home? Point out the care theyll need and the likely cost of hiring...
Selling Pop Can Tabs?
Hi, Danielle. I buy them for half-a-penny a piece (i.e., $5 for 1,000) for making craft projects. I cant imagine you want to ship them all the way to Canada, but let me know if you do (words work AT telus.net) and well see what we can arrange. Alternatively...
Curtain Color for Living Room Area?
Why not keep it in the same colour family? Yellows or shades of orange? Even greens would go well with the earth tones yet brighten the room. Good luck!
Hang Wet Laundry in Bedroom to Prevent Nosebleeds
Love this, and thanks kindly for the idea! To add a few more? Turn off the dishwasher as soon as its done the wash cycle, open the door to let things air dry and allow humidity to escape (saves a bit on the power bill, too). We also leave the bathroom door...
Receiving Coupons in the Mail?
Hi, Connie. Have you tried searching for coupons on the Internet? Many companies post them on their websites and you can simply print to use them. Start with Proctor and Gamble then check out companies who provide your favourite brands (shampoo, for instance...
Getting Rid of Fruit Flies?
Hi, Norma. Leaving fresh fruit or other produce on the counter and sometimes even plants can contribute to infestations of fruit flies. Put all your food in the fridge and let plants dry out a bit to discourage the little beggars from breeding. Sticky Traps...
Rates for Cleaning Empty Apartments?
Please consider charging by the hour? $30 - $35 per person per hour isnt unreasonable and its what I pay my service to come in once a month to take care of such basics as vacuuming, cleaning the bathrooms, scrubbing floors and other tasks which arise (including...
Kitchen Paint Color Advice?
Hey, Jonathan. How about a contrast to keep the area from feeling too heavy or dark? White, perhaps? Or a very pale grey? Cheers, Rose Anne
Remedy for Hair Damaged by Perm?
Hi, Shabana, Sorry to hear about your difficulties, but have you considered talking to a salon professional for advice? In the meantime, before you decide on anything, check Google for styling tips on how to wear your hair attractively tied back or braided...
Jobs for 13 Year Olds?
Congratulations, Selena, to you and your friends for wanting to work and earn some money! I dont know if its legal where you live to work in restaurants washing dishes or cleaning tables, but if any of your family members own a restaurant, why not ask? Baby...
Cats Urinating on My Lawn?
I can sympathize, Susan. One of my neighbours feeds all the darn wild rabbits without considering the nuisance factor for her neighbours who garden. How do you feel about buying a dog? That should do it, dont you think? Perhaps a fence? Good luck! Rose Anne
Paying Child Support?
Sorry, Elbert, but youre not getting any sympathy as theyre your children too. And your responsibility. Grow a pair and get with the program! How do you think your kids will feel knowing youre trying to duck your obligation? Good example? Economizing isnt difficult...
Repair Assistance for Senior Citizen?
Hi, Marie. Please look into volunteer organizations? I dont know how big your city is, but Im hoping youll find retired gents who are handy with tools whod like to help out. You might be asked to pay for materials. Up here, in Calgary (Canada), seniors exchange...
Car Frostbite Prevention Kit
Excellent reminder! Thank you. Should we also include flares (emergency highway markers) so other cars can see us? How about a cell phone (even if we dont use them, having one for emergencies could be a good idea)? A shovel? Extra warm, thick socks? I live...
Sharing Expenses With Boyfriend?
Hi, Emma, Sorry to say this, but Im in absolute agreement with Abigail and Dinah. You are making it pretty easy for him to take advantage of you, so I wont repeat their words of wisdom. Permit me to point out, however, that if he wants a committed relationship...
14th Birthday Party Ideas?
Hi, Phoebe. Does your city / town have a family-oriented park? Someplace with picnic tables? If everything brings one food item and one fun item (such as a frisbee or baseball, even croquet or cribbage), do you think most of your friends would enjoy themselves...
Sharing Living Expenses With Girlfriend?
HI, JT. I think Dinahs right in that your friend may be taking advantage, but youre also letting her. Ill err on the side of respect by saying youre likely very kind hearted. However, the facts remain that - regardless of her income - if she wants to live in...
Repairing an Antique Chair?
Have you considered talking to people at furniture repair shops? Re-upholsterers? They may have old parts.
Curtain Color Advice?
As much as I like Ginnys advice, I also think its a great opportunity to add colour to your room. Beige and earth tones get a little bland, right? Teal is my favourite colour ... to wear. Not that Im opposed to using it in decor, but it gets pretty dated pretty...
