Gift Ideas for Widowed Grandpa?
Give him the same gift card and make a cute note saying you will be his date when he uses it. He will be thrilled, I imagine.
Using Self Stick Vinyl Floor Tiles on a Shower Wall?
I dont know, but I used some for grease protection back behind a stove (it sat out far from the wall) once in a house I owned. Sure easy to clean! I would imagine you would need some really heavy duty glue (over and beyond the self stick part) and maybe you...
Underarm Smell on T-shirts?
White vinegar is about the best thing I know to use. It will even remove very old odor (like 2 years old). Surely you could obtain some somehow, order online or something. It might be expensive, but worth it.
50th Wedding Anniversary Party Ideas?
A picnic, a pot luck party (people bring food), backyard party, comes to mind. People dont mind helping out these days, they know things are expensive. Pictures of them make nice decorations and arent terribly expensive to use as decorations, especially if...
Mold on a Shower Curtain?
Wash your curtain in the washing machine with bleach (more than you would a load of clothes) and soap. (Watch it carefully, of course). (Do not dry in dryer, of course). It might need more than one washing. You could also just pour bleach and add water and...
Covering a Bathroom Window?
Leave the window (its easier) and cover it with frosted glass or plastic that is used on industrial type lights (to hide the bulbs). (What I used on my bathroom window that sounds similar). You have the light, but no one can see in Have the glass cut to size...
Toilet Makes Loud Screeching Noise?
The hose is twisted up. Not a plumber, so dont know what it is called. Its the one that goes from commode into wall, the metal one. Carefully twist it around next time you hear the sound until it stops. I had this in a nice hotel 3 weeks ago and have had it...
Lowering Blood Sugar Quickly?
I am not sure lowering it quickly is advisable, but exercise does make a huge different. Cinnamon is amazing to lower blood sugar. (About a teaspoon a day.) If you want to take it all at once, put it in a small ball of peanut or other butter and eat it like...
Can I Freeze Peppers for Making Jelly Later?
No idea about the jelly part, but peppers freeze well. The main thing is that they be air tight and very dry when they are frozen. Cut the tops off, and remove seeds. Wash and dry completely. They sometimes seem mushy when defrosted, but the taste is fine.
Can I Freeze Peppers for Making Jelly Later?
No idea about the jelly part, but peppers freeze well. The main thing is that they be air tight and very dry when they are frozen. Cut the tops off, and remove seeds. Wash and dry completely. They sometimes seem mushy when defrosted, but the taste is fine.
How Long Does It Take a Tomato Plant to Set Fruit?
Tomatoes pollinate each other. Go out and beat them about a bit. not kidding. :) You have still plenty of time for tomatoes, with luck and good conditions they can make into the early fall.
On-line Sites for Scrapbook Enhancements?
Etsy has a lot of scrapbooking and stamping embellishments and supplies. (etsy.com) This is a wonderful site for handmade and vintage items. (Its buy outright, not an auction.) I love it. Do a search for what you are interested in.
80th Birthday Gift Ideas?
Most older people are on fixed incomes. We had a money tree at our 80th party for my dad. We did also let people know gifts were optional (because after all, many people we invited were also older like him and our dad is an especially un-materialistic person...
Keeping mosquitoes Out of the House?
They shouldnt be coming through the unit itself but probably around some cracks in the window where it is set.....review your window and see if you have openings. They can be tiny and re-seal the area around the unit carefully.
Advertising a Freelance Graphic Design Business?
Not a directory, but you can sell this sort of thing on etsy. etsy.com. Its a handmade site and everything from earrings to website design, etc. is sold.
Calling 911 on a Land Line Without Home Phone Service?
I dont know that you cant do this, but generally if you dont have phone service you dont have a ring tone, etc....line is very dead.
Organizing a Bedroom Shared by Adult and Two Children?
Definitely lighten the walls with lighter colors. Minimize the amount of furniture other than the beds by having one huge clothes keeper (like an armoire) or use the closet for all the clothes, either by putting the chests in there, using plastic boxes or other...
Rubber Band Prints
Very cool idea, how creative! You could also use acrylic blocks or wood for something more permanent.
My Frugal Life: ThriftyFun Family
I am sorry that your upbringing was not as happy as it should have been; however, you have done the right and prudent thing in reaching out and making other people your family. It isnt what happens to us in life, its what we do about it, that counts the most...
Natural Hair Moisturizer for African American Hair?
Coconut oil. Available at Walmart (in cooking oils), other regular stores, and most all health food stores. Its a wonder. Makes good conditioner, and skin cream also. It kills germs and will kill germs in your mouth even. It will also drown head lice and kill...
Storage Drawer on Stove Wedged Shut?
Update, I got it open. Thanks for your advice. I tried everything, but what finally worked was to pull out the muffin tins under it (one of them I mashed up pretty badly before I tried this). Oddly enough, they came out like magic and then the glass pan just...
Whitening a Football Jumper?
I remember that recipe from Heloise, but I think it was color safe bleach. About a cup of that, along with powdered dishwasher soap. It does really remove most anything short of paint or such. I used to use it on my kids clothes. Soak it a good while.
Menu Ideas for Baby Shower?
Well, I dont know about there, but its hot here in Texas. So Id suggest finger foods, chips and dips, mini sandwiches, veggie tray. Heres an idea. How about making a baby carriage watermelon? Design and cut the watermelon to look like a baby carriage and use...
Making Birdhouses Out of Scrap Wood?
My ex made and sold birdhouses out of old picket fencing. He just cut it, didnt do anything else to it (didnt paint, etc). He would use old (other kind)wood and make a box frame and then add the pickets on top of that (like paneling to a wall). Since they were...
Removing Sticker Residue?
Rubbing alcohol works and a little elbow grease. So does a bit of scouring powder (Ajax, Comet, etc.) rubbed into a small paste in water (choose carefully what you do it to). So do good erasers, also (ink eraser from your office supply section), that is.
Preventing Laundry from Fading?
Wash in cold water. Dry as little as possible (I personally think that fades the clothes more than washing, some of my blouses I hang to dry). You can turn things inside out before washing, it supposedly helps. Dont wash as much! I re-wear blouses that dont...
Black Spots On Mirror?
The posters below have it correctly, the silver is coming off from the backing of the mirror. You can try and avoid this problem by never spraying a mirror with cleaner to clean it but by spraying a paper towel or whatever you use directly and then wiping off...
On-Line Friends Matching Sites?
If it is still out there, Friendfinder used to be a way to meet people platonically. Eons is also another one for over 50 people and they have local groups you can join.
Substituting Half and Half for Milk in Recipes?
Yes, but half and half has more calories and more fat. Id use the same ratio really, if it were me. Or maybe 2 1/2 cups half and half and 1/2 cup water. Its not likely to fail miserably whatever you do.
3 Year Old Girl Potty Training Advice?
The way I did it with mine (28, 25), may not be the current method, but heres what I did. Begin by taking them to the bathroom frequently, but doing nothing. Explain what to do. Show them what you do (keep your clothes on if you want). Talk about the potty...
Homemade Columns for a Wedding Reception?
Ive never made any columns out of PVC pipe, but I am sure it could be done. You might consider the paper rolls from inside carpet rolls (from a carpet stoor or carpet supplier) also. They are large (long and around) and heavy weight. I would imagine you could...
Pricing House Cleaning Jobs?
You are making approximately $6.50 an hour, if I figured it right. Id say you need more money.
Planting Peach Pits?
I am not any planting expert :), but the secret to planting any kind of pit is to let it dry out first.
Should I Be Concerned About the Rat Snake Living Under My Porch?
I wouldnt worry about him. He wont eat the chihuahua or likely bite the kids or you unless you directly threaten him. They are not poisonous. They do eats rats and mice and such as that, so my guess is you have a supply of those near the porch.
Use Good Thread When Quilting?
You use quilting thread. Its thicker than regular thread. Can be obtained at cloth and hobby supply stores. Ask for help from a store clerk if you need it.
Feces Stains on Underwear?
Bleach is the best thing. Most people do not realize that most anything can be bleached, white or not. You just have to use tiny amounts of bleach with solid colors, etc. For example, one cap of bleach to a gallon of water and let it soak only for 30 minutes...
Feces Stains on Underwear?
Oh, I just realized you may not have Comet in the UK, well, I mean a white scouring powder, like you use to clean sink stains.
Christmas Centerpieces?
If you can find enough pine cones, hot them together in the shapes of Christmas trees, spray paint them green or gold or white, whatever color suits your theme and then put a bow at the top. Use wired ribbon or inexpensive pre-made bows if you arent a great...
Anniversary Party Planning?
If you could borrow or rent a mannequin and dress it with your dress and veil, that would be nice. A seamstress you know make have one that she uses for her own alterations.
Biscuits Turned Out Doughy?
Too much liquid and/or too much grease/oil. Also, with biscuits you do not mix them up very long, just enough to mix the ingredients together.
Organizing a Crowded Apartment?
I bought bed risers (those plastic things that make your bed stand taller) and I store boxes of craft stuff under my bed. I use copy paper boxes from work, they are the perfect size and they are the same size. You do need to have a master list of what is in...
Getting the Last Drop Out of Body Wash and Other Containers?
With shampoo, dish soap, liquid soap, I mix a little water in them and just use them up that way (1/8 to 1/4 cup depending on the thickness of the soap), shake around. With ketchup, mustard and such, I put them upside down and leave a while and they will drain...
Getting the Last Drop Out of Body Wash and Other Containers?
Oh another thing, if your son is going through the stuff that fast, you might consider watering it down in the 1st place. My sister complained that my nephew (who is autistic) used a ton of liquid hand soap and she felt he was wasting it for the most part. I...
Computer Tip for Degree Symbol?
We have windows here at work and I work for a title company, I use control and D (approximately at the same time) to make a degree sign. I have no idea if this translates elsewhere.
Advantages of Homemade Dishwashing Liquid?
Its generally cheaper, probably better for your dishes and your hands and you know whats in it!
Two Foot Tall Clear Champagne Glass Decoration?
If you cant find one retail anywhere, maybe you could make one? Get a tall cylinder type glass stem (candle stick holder, spaghetti holder?), a glass plate inverted upside down for the bottom and look for a low, flat rounded top (fruit bowl, fish bowl, etc...
Crocheted Pot Scrubber?
Type in free crochet patterns on the internet and see what you come up with. I used to be a member of a site that had free patterns, but I dont remember what it was called.
Removing Rubber Sole Shoe Marks from Waxed Tile Floors?
The easier way to clean rubber sole marks off a floor (any) is just to rub with your shoes (while you are in them). A long up and back motion (like the pawing motion a horse does his leg), or you can go in circles. Lightly. It works! I learned this years ago...
Temporary Flooring for Installing Over Terrazzo Flooring?
Peel and stick tiles are pretty permanent, forget that! (They come up, but arent easy to take up and will leave glue, etc on the tiles you have on the floors now). I dont have any bright suggestions, except maybe rugs.
Motor Oil Stains on Cement?
I think I remember that you can sprinkle baking soda on it (a lot of it). Let it sit a while and then sweep it up. I will ask my sister, the expert, though, she does not have a drop of oil in her garage.
Turning Artwork Into Wrapping Paper?
You could go to Kinkos or some copy store like that and have it blown up into bigger paper.
How Do Male Pitbulls React to New Born Puppies?
They will kill them if they get a chance. Any male dog will really. You need to keep the puppies away from the older male dogs, really, in my opinion. (My son has pit bulls.)
How Do I Make Synthetic Water?
If you are talking about the clear looking (hard) water in some fake plants at the store, there isnt any homemade way of making it that I am aware of. However, its Resin and you can buy kits of that at Hobby Stores or in the auto body department of some stores...
How to Find Free or Inexpensive Furniture?
Check with some churches in your town also. They often have helper programs.
Will Adding Baking Soda to Beans Reduce Flatulence?
I think this is true, however, remember you are also adding a lot of sodium when you do this. Soaking beans and then changing the water also improves the gas problems.
Burger for a Bunch Recipe from the 70s or 80s?
This is from CDKitchen (cooking website) and is probably the same recipe submitted by Sally. FYI - type into the internet anything like that and you will probably find what you want. I just typed in Burgers for a Bunch and found all sorts of things. (Dont worry...
Buying Mineral Makeup?
Check etsy.com (handmaking website), there are a good many sellers who make cosmetics, including mineral make-up.
Christmas Card Photo Caption Ideas?
Were wishing you all kinds of J O Y, backwards and forwards, this year!
Buying Bulk Aluminum Pop Tabs?
Well, I dont know about New York, but people sell them in bulk on ebay.
Ohio Christmas Charities?
Someone else already said it, but the Salvation Army is truly one of the best helper organizations there is. Emphasize fun and good times to your granddaughter, rather than gifts. But as for gifts, you can find tons of great new or barely used items at thrift...
Ohio Christmas Charities?
Well, I wanted to add something else. One year my husband was unemployed (for like a year) and I didnt work either (our kids were small and daycare costs would have eliminated most of my wages). So I picked up pecans (at my aunts who went halves with me) and...
Sewing Machine is Wadding Up Thread Under Fabric?
WildIrish has it right, it is probably the tension. The tension is partly set by that little screw (turn it) in the bobbin compartment. You will have to experiment with a scrap piece of cloth until you get it right. Or it may be the tension of the thread itself...
Is a Moldy Towel Safe to Use?
Yes, it would not kill you anyway, unless you tried to eat it (and probably not even then). :) Dorinmoz is correct.
Making Painted Decorative Tiles?
Most people I know just buy them at the lumber yard type store (Lowes, Home Depot, etc.).
Bridal Shower Gift Ideas?
It depends on age and circumstances of bride. Very young - not lived on her own or barely out there bride: be very practical: Appliances, linens, towels, bowl sets, pots and pans, silverware. Some unusual ideas: cookbook, spices or spice kits (Penzeys has excellent...
Where Can I Find a Free Doughnut Cutter?
In the olden days people just cut donuts and bisquits with the bottoms of cans (clean empty cans with labels removed). A tuna can would be about the right size and for the hole in the middle maybe a shot glass.
Is the Taste of Evaporated Milk Noticeable When Used in Cooking?
I really doubt you could pick it out from inside a pie or something like that. I never notice the taste, myself.
Planning a Thanksgiving Without Family?
I disagree with everyone who said it is being selfish. We are all selfish by nature. You have a right to live your life as you please. For once enjoying Thanksgiving alone, nothing wrong with that. Mother didnt live her life for you and you are not required...
Thrifty Food Ideas For Wedding Reception?
Catered food is never very cheap. Do it yourself! Get some of your family to pitch in and cook the food, store the food, etc. Nobody said wedding food has to leave the invitees stuffed either (as in a full meal), finger sandwiches, chips and dips and all that...
Freezing Bell Peppers?
Bell peppers, celery, onions (and some fruits, like grapes and bananas) can all be frozen without blanching. (I do it all the time). For the peppers, core and wash and thoroughly dry (leaving water on them hastens deterioration because ice crystals form) and...
Why Does My Paint Smell Bad?
Paint can sour and apparently it did. Its possible a dead bug or mouse or something fell in while you were painting or something??
Tips for Caring for a Removable Denture?
See all the nice suggestions below in the archives. I wear my flipper tooth on a daily basis. I treat it like dentures, I put in a denture bath at night and use denture tablets in the water. If you dont actually wear yours regularly I suggest you change the...
One Size Doesn't Always Fit All
An excellent post, and you are so right about everything. We march to our own drummer, as it should be. Thanks for sharing!
Eco Friendly Paint Removal Products?
I havent tried this on ornaments, but it will dissolve dried paint on paintbrushes, so no reason to think it wont work: white vinegar. You might want to submerge the ornaments down in the vinegar, by removing the metal hanger cap thing and putting water or...
Thrifty Christmas Decorating Ideas?
Felt is also very cheap. Usually about 4 or 5 pieces of it for a dollar at the craft type stores. You can make little trees or hearts (or whatever) out of felt and sew around the edges with embroidery thread (you dont have to be a fabulous sewer, just what...
Redyeing Hair Red?
Not a hairdresser, but I definitely would not bleach it and then re-dye it. Your best bet is probably to dye it again.
Inexpensive Christmas Gift Ideas for Friends?
Id buy them all a $5 dollar movie or food or drink gift card and then suggest that you all (or groups of) go out and enjoy it together.
Cabinets and Flooring to Complement a Burgundy Range?
With a deep rich color like bergundy, I think the cabinets, etc. should be a creamy off white.
Selling the Jewelry I Make?
How do you intend to put the pictures on? Digital camera? You probably need to find someone (in person) who has a digital camera and computer who knows how to save the pictures to your computer and then you can easily put them on etsy or ebay (etsy is your...
Making Coleslaw?
The basics of the liquid for coleslaw is mayo or salad dressing, milk to thin it and a bit of sweetening, usually sugar. I cook mainly by just tossing stuff in, sorry cant give you extra measurements.
Guinea Pig is Rejecting One of Babies?
I had GPs as pets years ago. I have no experience with a mother rejecting a baby, but if I recall correctly GPs can start eating regular food right away, so Id just remove it from the cage and put it in a separate cage. You might put some of the other babies...
Keeping Buttons from Falling Off Leather Coat?
I would use some heavy duty thread, like quilting thread. You can add a touch of a good glue (tacky glue) or something on the last couple of rounds of sewing for extra stability (carefully on the glue).
Can You Dry Clean Couch Cushions?
Here is what my BF, the former dry cleaner owner/operator says: Since some cushions have that polyester foam inside of them I would say no to dry cleaning. That stuff can dissolve in the petroleum based dry cleaning fluid. Even if the dry cleaner decided to...
Cleaning the Inside of Clear Glass Christmas Ornaments?
Try the old restaurant clean the coffee pot method. Crush some ice and add salt to it and put it inside (Yes, I realize the ice will need to be small, use a small funnel if you have one). Swish it around and around for a minute or two or however long it takes...
Tips for Yogurt Production Process?
Well, if you mean, how is it made? Milk is warmed but not boiled, has a yogurt starter added (powder you buy or yogurt from a prior batch of yogurt) and then it is allowed to sit under normal temperature (room temperature) (but kept warm by keeping it in a...
Which Types of Rice Are Safe to Use in Microwave Heat Pads?
Boring old white rice is what is typically used.
Best Dye for Fondant?
I prefer gel dyes. The colors are more vibrant. (Use toothpick to pluck out some of the gel and then add into whatever you are coloring, you cant much pour it). It is not as cheap, but it lasts forever and goes a long way. I havent purchased any lately, but...
Best Flour to Use When Making Cheesecake?
That I know of, there is no special flour for cheesecakes. Baking your own bread and things of that nature, theres where your speciality flours come in.
Lifespan of a Gerbil?
Not a gerbil expert, but probably 2 years is about max. Id say a year really. Look it up online.
My Frugal Life: A Winter Miracle
Awesome winter/Christmas story! I have cold chills (good ones) (literally) from reading it. Thank you so much for sharing! Vicki
Controlling Hypertension?
Exercise regularly (walking is fine). Lose weight if you need to. Cut radically back on salt, fats and junk food. Eat high fiber (oat bran is about the best thing ever to reduce cholesterol). Eat mostly fresh vegetables and fruit, and cut radically back on...
Organizing Christmas Decorations for Storage?
I have used plastic shoe boxes for breakable ornaments. I also make use of large plastic zip lock bags for unbreakable ornaments, candles or other small miscellaneous. I wrap my lights around rolled up newspaper, junk mail or magazines. Its good to just generally...
Saving Money on Groceries?
I save money by eating considerably less meat. I eat more beans, rice (brown), grains (whole), pasta (mostly whole grain). (By the way, they are not always cheaper but they are better for you and might save some doctor and hospital bills later in life, so you...
Plant Dying After Repotting?
It looks like an Ivy (Mrs. Story is correct). As she said, they require drainage overwise the roots rot. Dont overwater. You might take it out on a patio or otherwise outside (if its reasonably warm) and let it dry out a bit. They are pretty hardy, you can...
Are There Weight Restrictions for Joining Weight Watchers?
It used to be you had to be at least 10 lbs overweight, but as far as how big you might be (like 500 lbs or something), I highly doubt it. Weight watchers has a website, look it up online and find a local chapter to contact. Good luck and heres to losing, me...
Garden: Bedford (TX)
Its paradise! I love tropical settings and yours practically is! I will trade you my apartment in Dallas for your backyard in Bedford! :)
Free Version of WordPerfect?
Avery (that makes many kinds of labels) (online) has some freebies and help.
Help Making Perfect Southern Fried Chicken?
Yes, fab4mom is right. You must not fry chicken in extremely hot oil (once it is started cooking). You turn the chicken frequently, also. If the oil stays too hot, it will burn the chicken outside and not cook the inside properly. Also, if you use a batter...
Recipes for Making Faux Food?
Resin is probably the best choice, very lightly tinted with yellow dye (go to the your local craft store and ask them about resin).
Dark Circles on My Elbows and Knees?
Please read the archived feedback. Dark elbows, knees, underarms can be a symptom of diabetes.
Combined Grandmother/Granddaughter Birthday Party?
I think it would be kind of cute if you dressed up like your grandmother and she dressed your age. Or you both dressed alike. Or how about everything in pink and call it the birthday girls party? (Its late in the day and I might be tired :).
Traditional American Pumpkin Pie?
This is about as American as it gets: I dont know if you have Libbys brand over there, if so, it should be on the label (at least around our Halloween time (10/31). Libbys (brand) Pumpkin Pie (this has been on the can since 1950) 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1...
Cake is Too Dry?
Usually a cake is too dry because it is cooked too long. I dont know how old your oven is, but your oven might be heating higher than it shows on the temperature knob (therefore you are cooking them hotter than what you think).
Discontinued Wallpaper: Black with Silver and Gold Streaks?
There is another online site called iOffer. You can post (for free) on the want it now section with a picture. (eBay) also has a want it section, look on the site map to find it. Maybe with luck you might eventually get a response. OR maybe just type into the...
Removing Denture Adhesive from My Mouth?
I just pull it off manually with my fingers, although mine doesnt particularly stick (maybe that is more specific to having only a small partial). I like Polygrip better than Fixodent, although I use both.
Centerpiece Ideas for a Kids Birthday Party?
Cheap dollar store animals bunched together in the center of the table. You could buy some Play Doh (or make some) (green or brown for dirt or grass) and stick them in it to hold them down. Kids dont know what things cost, keep that in mind. I used to decorate...
Making a Blouse Fit Better?
The best solution for you would be homemade blouses that you can adjust the size of the arms. Do you sew or know someone who does?
Inexpensive Fall Wedding Table Centerpieces?
I was going to say the exact same thing, rehatterb, except I didnt think of the mums. I think this would look great myself. You could wax the leaves or spray with a bit of clear varnish if you wanted a brighter look.
Can I Freeze Bread in Original Packaging?
I heard in the past it was because of the dye on the package (wording). But also the plastic is not freezer ready as Moseley3 says. I doubt the dye would be a problem unless it directly touched the bread, you could freeze it in the package and add foil over...
Reviews of Microwave Pasta Cooker?
I dont own one, but I dont need it. I just cook pasta in a pan. Remember, manufacturers are always coming up with something they want you to buy, that you dont really need. Storage can be an issue with all the hot doggers, pasta makers, smores makers, etc. one...
Keeping Track of Passwords?
I write them down and carry in my wallet. However, I have a system for remembering what they are that it would be very difficult, virtually impossible, for someone to figure out if they dont know me. For example, if my purse was stolen or otherwise invaded...
What is the Best Brand of Cocoa?
The best cocoa is real cocoa. The kind you buy and add the milk, vanilla, sugar and cook on the stove. Its awesome and I bet most people havent ever had it except us slightly older folks. (Nestles is one brand). (Penzeys Spices also has good pre-made cocoa...
Neighbor's Dogs Digging Under Fence and Getting Into My Yard?
I agree with applejack about this. Get aggressive, before your child or someone elses gets hurt or worse. If they are renters, contact their landlord. You could try jilsons great ideas and then get in touch with the city/county if none of that works. It sounds...
Simple Sewing Projects for a Rehabilitation Center and Nursing Home?
Table napkins. Rag bags. Tooth fairy pillows. Pincushions. Yo yos (which you can do a million things with).
Using Olive Oil for Dry Scalp?
Yes, you can use olive oil. Mediterrean women have used it for centuries (skin also). You can also use Almond oil (smells yummy) or virtually any kind of oil. Vegetable oil, whatever. Just dont use motor oil :). Remember any kind of oil is absorbed from your...
