Making Meatballs for the Freezer?
I pat the meatball mixture into a pan and then bake it until firm. Cut into meat squares and add to spaghetti sauce. The corners break off in the sauce and will become meatballs.
Preventing Puppies From Chewing
Another idea is to use Vicks Vapor Rub or an equivalent generic brand. My neighbor also used a mentholated rub used for sore muscles. Since dogs have a sensitive sense of smell, it really annoys them. You can apply some to a piece of cloth and use a safety...
Homemade Laundry Soap Blunder?
I have used the powdered Fels Napa detergent when I had a top load washer. I now have a front load, (love it!), and am reluctant to use the Fels Napa detergent. Less detergent is used in a front load washer. Since the Fels Napa detergent doesnt create a lot...
Vacuum Seal Ziplock Bags
Your method cannot compare to a vacuum sealer. I can use your method for short term freezer storage but I use my vacuum sealer for long term. You can freeze some foods up to two years without a problem. That may sound impossible but it does work. A vacuum sealer...
Picking Up Broken Glass
Carefully press a fresh slice of white bread over the tiny pieces of glass. The slice of bread must be fresh and soft. Always use caution whenever handling broken glass.
High Octane Gas Saves Money (?)
I was under the impression that using a grade of gas not recommended by the cars manufacturers manual can acutally harm your engine after a period of time.
Baste a Turkey With Cheesecloth
I found this is the best way to roast chicken or turkey. As you said, no basting is necessary. Since you dont have to open the oven door, the turkey actually roasts faster. The oven loses a lot of heat when the oven door is opened during basting. I found this...
Mashed Potato Recipes?
Heavenly Mashed Potatoes: Cook five pounds of potatoes, I prefer Russett. Mash potatoes as usual. Add one cup of warm half and half, one stick of melted butter, and salt and pepper to taste; mix. Blend in an eight ounce box of softened cream cheese and a small...
Question About Using Vinegar In The Kitchen?
Is vinegar sprayed directly on a laminate surface, such as the kitchen counter, and then left to stand for 5 or more minutes harmful to the counter top? It seems like it would be too harsh to use undiluted.
Keeping My Apartment Smelling Fresh?
To eliminate trash can odors, put all your garbage, food scraps, vegetable peelings, etc., in your refrigerator or freezer until you can dispose of it. We keep a plastic container with a tight fitting lid in our refrigerator. When it gets full, we freeze it...
Buy Baking Supplies After the Holidays
To make your own vanilla, buy a quart bottle of vodka and add 2 whole vanilla beans. According to the recipe, you let it sit for a month or more in a dark place. I waited six months. You now have vanilla extract. I give it a good shake to mix before pouring...
Bake Your Bacon
Another tip -- line the cookie sheets with heavy duty aluminum foil for an easy clean-up. When bacon is done, drain on paper towels. Also, cooked bacon freezes well.
Ink Spot On New Couch?
I would hire a professional since the couch was costly. If you try to clean in yourself, it may make it worse. Sometimes even a professional cant get it out after home remedies are used. Good luck!
Solutions For Shedding?
Linatone works great but it is pricey. Wal-Mart carries something equivalent to this and it is under $4.00 for an 8 oz. bottle. I have used it for years when I was a dog owner. Its advertised as a coat and skin supplement for dogs. Its found in the pet department...
Lasagna Tips?
I dont use lasagne noodles. Instead I use cooked egg noodles. Easier to cook and to layer.
Uses For Shortening
Hand or Feet Softener: Wash the area to be softened. Rub hands/feet with shortening, and add enough white sugar in to act as an abrasive. Rub this mixture into the skin. Wipe off with paper towel. Wash hands, then use your favorite lotion. Note: this can be...
Inside Snow Fun
I would take snow and put it in my kitchen or utility sink for my two year. My daughter was born in the winter and sometimes it was just too cold to take her outdoors. My son loved this idea and it kept him happy until we were able to go out.
Antique Desk Smells Like Urine?
If it is a valuable piece of furniture, you could call an antiques dealer for suggestions. If not, use lemon oil liberally and let it sit for a half-hour to an hour, if it is made of wood. Then wipe off. If the odors are in the drawers, try the newspaper method...
No Time to Fry Bacon Everytime
I bake one pound of bacon at 400 degrees in foil lined jelly roll pans for 10-12 minutes. Just watch it doesnt burn. Drain on paper towel lined plate. What we dont eat -- I put into a freezer bag. It doesnt freeze together, we take out only what we need.
Our Dog Is Waking Up Early?
Whenever any of my pets change their routine, I always check for health problems. Our dog, Nikki, started to wake us early to go out. Later, we found out from our vet that it was the beginning of a urinary tract infection. Another time, our older dog, Scruffy...
Pick an Inexpensive Day for Your Wedding
We were married in a church on a Friday night at 6:00. The reception was from 7:00 to 11:00. Young children werent invited due to the time. Plus the fact, we both had large families and couldnt afford it. My husband and I paid for our own wedding. Everyone...
Son's eyes red and itchy after showering.
Another idea is to check out your water supply. Maybe something has changed in your water if it comes from a water treatment plant or if you have a private well. Some people can be more sensitive to change than others.
Beloved Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
I would like to try this recipe -- sounds delicious. I just to be sure of what size package of cream cheese. Thank you.
Does Putting Batteries In The Freezer Extend Their Life?
I read that it is best to keep them at room temperature. They are exposed to moisture in the refrigerator or freezer.
Cat Pees on Dirty Laundry only?
Since this is unusual for your cat to do this, I would take her to the vet for a checkup. Our pets sometimes act out of character when they are not well. That is their way of telling us. If her health checks out I would confine her to a small room with her...
Serena T. Dog (Black Labrador Retriever)
I see she has a invisible fence collar. I think they are the greatest if used properly. I have convinced at least five people to purchase them. Every one of them was pleased. As long as dogs are trained properly, they are great. I trained our dogs in about...
Candle Soot On Walls?
You shouldnt be getting any soot when you burn candles. The wick could be too long. Read the candle instructions, usually at the bottom, on how long the wick should be. I usually trim mine to 1/4 inch before relighting. Another reason could be that the candle...
Homemade Hair Rinse
Using plain mayo on your hair as a conditioner works great. I usually keep generic mayo in my fridge just for my hair. There is no way that any familiy member would use it. I apply to my hair before I wash it. Just work into your scalp and hair. I use disposable...
Write Clearly When Filling Out Forms
I totally agree with you. Many years ago I also had to read handwritten names and addresses. My major complaint is with the companies that print the name and address forms. There is usually very little space to legibly print the information. If more space was...
Remembering to Turn Your Lights Off
Another idea is to leave your glove compartment open as long as nothing will fall out.
Tips for Dealing With Icy Steps?
Could you please more specific on how much Dawn and warm water is to be used? I would appreciate it. Thanks.
Real Vanilla - How can you buy it inexpensively?
To one liter bottle of vodka, add two whole vanilla beans. Let stand for one month or more, in a dark place. The longer you let the beans soak, the better the flavor. Shake the bottle before using. As you use the vanilla, replenish the bottle by adding more...
Removing a Salad Dressing (Grease) Stain from Silk?
Dont treat the stain. Take it to the dry cleaners as soon as possible. Tell them what the stain is, maybe they can help.
Adding Spinach to Pasta
This sounds wonderful! So simple -- but yet so good. We love spinach at our house. The problem is that there is usually no leftovers. Ill just have to make extra and then hide it in the refrigator somehow.
Easy to Peel Boiled Eggs
I buy fresh eggs from a local farmer. The eggs I boiled would never peel easy. I tried every trick in the book: vinegar, salt, piercing the egg and other methods; and still had problems. I asked the farmers wife how she prepares them without having this problem...
Do It Yourself Home Repair
This web site looks very interesting for self help repairs on appliances. It is an appliance help forum: www.repair2000.com
Detergent Powder and Floor Cleaning Liquid?
Floor Cleaner - do not use on wood or laminated flooring. Great for tile and no-wax floors. In a one gallon jug add in this order: 3 quarts water, 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon ammonia and 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon bleach-free liquid laundry detergent (I use Tide...
Detergent Powder and Floor Cleaning Liquid?
Powdered Laundry Detergent 1 cup grated Fels Naptha Bar Soap 1/2 cup washing soda 1/2 cup borax Mix and store in airtight container or bag. For light loads, use 1 tablespoon. For heavy loads, use 2 tablespoons. Since you are in India, I do not know if these...
MOo-MOo and Stanlee (Cats)
Are you sure he is a boy? He looks like hes expecting. He really is adorable, beautiful markings. He is one lucky cat to have such a caring owner. My neice has a rather large cat. We call him Budha. Since she adopted him many years ago, he was huge. The vet...
Romeo (Yorkshire Terrier)
What special care, besides love and affection, do Yorkies require? If they dont get clipped, are they easy to groom and maintain? Just wondering...
Using Aluminum Foil
According to http://www.reynoldskitchens.com it doesnt make a difference what side is used. The reason it is like that is due to the manufacturing process.
Cake Dye On Shirt?
If its that important, maybe the best idea would to take it to cleaners and tell them what the stain is. To remove the stain at home, you have to consider the material and the washing instructions. Since its a food dye, it might be a tough stain for any detergent...
Motor Oil On A Sweater?
I have never tried this but I have read to add a can of Coca Cola to the wash along with your detergent for greasy clothes. For some reason, it stated to use Coca Cola only. Apparently, it works very well as a degreaser. Good luck.
Roasted Tomatoes
It is so hot when the tomatoes are ripe and I dont have air conditioning. I wouldnt be able to roast them at that time. Do you think I could freeze the tomatoes and roast them when the weather cools down? Thank you.
Corn Boiling Tip
I finally convinced my husband to try corn on the cob, his favorite, in the microwave. He cant wait until the local farmer sells them. He always checks his fields so he knows when there are ready for market. We peel the corn and then just wet the casserole...
When Baking, Invest In The Right Tools For The Job
I have always used aluminum foil for lining my cookie sheets. I never had a problem. Is parchment paper less expensive to use?
Spinach Bread
We love spinach, and this is a recipe my family will love. I just have some questions. What size package is the cheese and the spinach? Thanks.
Rust/Water Spots on Concrete?
I have never tried this but the back of the container of Barkeepers Friends states that it removes rust and discoloration from stone and masonry. I buy it at Wal-mart in the cleanser area. It is a handy cleanser to have in the house.
Recipes For Turning Plain Pickles into Gourmet?
My husband likes sweet pickles but not the dill. He is watching his sugar intake, so I bought whole dill pickles, drained the juice out of the jar, cut them into chunks, and added artificial sweetner. Let them sit a few days in the refrigerator and occasionally...
Highschool Party Suggestions?
My son and his friends planned their own. They wanted burgers on the grill, plus other picnic type foods. Some of them even brought food to share. They helped organize, set-up and more importantly clean-up. We allowed them privacy -- they were on the deck, we...
Rural Mailbox Tip
My girlfriend leaves a Bounce dryer sheet in her mailbox for the summer to keep the insects out.
Saving Money on Coffee Filters?
Years ago when I started to use generic coffee filters we thought are coffee maker wasnt working properly. It took longer for the coffee to get done and my husband didnt like the flavor of the coffee (I dont drink coffee). I realized it was the coffee filters...
Baby Jar Chandelier
This sounds very interesting! You are very creative! Is there a chance you can post a picture of it finished? Thanks.
Disposable Cameras For Fender Benders
My husband kept a disposable camera in his car but unfortunately the pictures didnt develop. He was told it was due to the temperature. He was told to keep it out of hot or cold temperatures.
The Best Place To Buy Vanilla Beans?
Check your local supermarket. Look in the gourmet spices section, if your supermarket has it. If not, talk to the manager. Sometimes they will help you. Also, try local farmer markets. In my area, we have a person who sells nothing but spices.
Gasoline in Van Carpet?
This happened to my mother-in-law and she had to have all new carpet installed but her insurance company paid for it. I cant remember if it was her car insurance or homeowners insurance. It doesnt hurt to find out.
Drying Couch Cushions?
Depending on the weather conditions, lay a thin towel or something like that on your car hood to protect it, and gently place the cushions. Make sure the car is in a sunny location. Turn them occasionally. Check with the owner of the car first, since some people...
Using Mascara
When your mascara starts to dry out, place in a container of hot water. Keep it closed but only use only enough water so it doesnt go over the opening of the mascara. Let it sit and a minute or two. This will soften it so it can be used a bit longer.
My Mother's Chocolate Cream Cookies
I have been looking for a baking recipe using lard. I was told by an elderly friend of mine that lard was always used for baking and cooking. She said food tastes better when using lard. But do have a recipe that doesnt make such a large amount? I couldnt make...
Removing Clingy Styrofoam Peanuts
Plain water in a spray bottle adjusted to a fine mist also works well.
Simple Bleach Recipes - Instead of Buying Bleach Cleaners
According to what I read homemade bleach solutions used for disinfecting should be used within one week because bleach dissipates and loses its potency. Does anyone know if this is true?
Extra Large Rubber Band From Pantyhose
Cut rubber gloves up for a variety of sizes to make elastic bands -- cut up the fingertips and the cuffs. I also like to use girls pony tail holders. You can usually buy a big bag of them in a discount store or on a clearance rack for a dollar or less.
Roaches In a Very Clean Home?
Many years ago when my mother was unpacking her groceries, she saw a roach crawl out of a bag of potatoes. She never went back to that store. I live in a wooded area. We have wood roaches that fly. They live outside and do not try to get in our home. Sometimes...
Posting Bathroom Rules When You Have a Septic System?
To dispose of tampons, keep plastic bags available in the bathroom, wrap in toilet paper then throw into trash. This is how my daughter handles it, if anyone has another idea, please let me know. I keep feminine products in a covered decorative basket marked...
Removing Coffee Smell From Thermos Carafe?
My husband uses a stainless steel lined thermos for coffee every day. When he comes home I rinse it well with hot water, adding a drip of dish detergent, shake it then rinse well. Once a week, to the empty thermos, I add about 1/4 cup of baking soda, to this...
Dog Urine Fishy Smell?
Soak up as much urine as possible with old towels or thick rags. Then heavily spray vinegar on the carpet. Test an area of the carpet to make sure it doesnt affect the carpet color. Blot up with old towels. Depending on how much urine, depends how long you...
Sweat Smell on Leather Belt?
Try hanging the belt outside in the hot sun for an hour or so. Keep a check on it to make sure it wont fade if it is dyed. Maybe something was spilled on it and it needs to be dried out. Another idea if the belt is dry not damp, is to put it into a large airtight...
Pug With Yeast Infection?
It sounds as though he needs immediate medical care. Usually if you take your pet to the vet for a recurring problem, they shouldnt charge you as much for a follow-up visit. A pet is an expense. Many years ago, a local vet only knew basic care to treat sick...
Bugs on Porch?
When I leave my stove light on at a low level as a night light, there would be dead small gnats on top of the stove in the morning. I put a wide bowl with a drop or two of liquid dish detergent mixed with water on top of the stove under the light. The next...
German Girl Coming To Canada?
When my aunt came from Poland to visit us, my mother used a childrens picture dictionary along with other translation books to help understand each other. It really did help us communiciate.
Duke (German Shepherd?) Rest in Peace
PUT ME TO REST Time to let me go my friend, Because my life no one can mend, Its better to let me go this way, Than watch me suffer night and day. Im happy to go, my time has come, My quality of life is no longer fun, I've been so ill, so it's not a bad thing...
Spider Plant Question?
When I had spider plants, the babies would have babies. I would keep them on, and they would grow and grow. Also, to make the mother plant fuller, I would bend a paper clip to use as a stake to keep a baby on top of the soil of the mother plant. Keep it there...
Small Wildlife Getting Into Trash?
We have bear in our area and my friend uses ammonia in a spray bottle and sprays her trash can. When she puts a bag in, she sprays the bag and then sprays the outside of the can. She hasnt had any problems with any critters in her trash. Maybe you can spray...
Cheap Indoor Fun for Wintertime?
My second child was born in the cold months so she was too young to take outside. My son was two years old and wanted to play in the snow. I put snow in the kitchen sink for him to play.
Taming a Kitten?
First, get a thorough health check by your vet. If everything checks out, try putting her in a pen that is kept in a room where there is family activity. If possible, move the pen wherever the family will be for long periods of time. Everyone in the home must...
Dog Whining?
My neighber had her dog since it was a puppy. The dog always would whine softly, they just thought they had a sensitive dog. It wasnt until the dog was almost two years old that they found out that the dog had hip dysplexia. She never limped or showed any signs...
Smelly Outdoor Trash Can?
Try spraying the inside with straight ammonia a few times without rinsing. Or maybe try a few mothballs.
Puppy With Stomach Problems?
The puppy could also have round worms. She needs to be taken to the vet as soon as possible, mainly because of her age. Shes too young to be away from her mother. Maybe she needs a special diet. I was told that a puppy should be with the mother until they are...
Do I have Diabetes?
My sister and I were comparing our levels for different types of blood work that our doctors gave us on the same day. We do not live in same area. We discovered that our ranges for each test were different. We think that is due to the different labs that are...
Neck Holder for Eyeglasses?
I see them in Wal-mart and Dollar Tree. Make sure you put the loops at the hinges of the glasses not the ends of the arms. You can also use a pin or a necklace that you can slip one arm of the glasses through making sure it will hold.
Teacher of the Year Gift?
When my kids were in elementary school, we would think of all the things that made that particular teacher special plus keep in mind what were the teachers likes and dislikes. We would compose a simple poem. Most of the time it was humorous. I would type it...
Very Lemony Chicken
Sounds delicious but I have some questions -- Do you bake the chicken in the marinade? If so, is the sauce the marinade after it cooks with the chicken? It seems like it would be too thin. Thanks.
Natural Looking Bird Feeders?
This is a warning against using onion or vegetable mesh bags to hold suet for feeding the wild birds. For many years, I used these bags without having any problems. One time a woodpecker had its leg tangled in the mesh. It was screaming and yanking. It was...
Fluffy (Persian) - Getting Cats Used to Each Other
Im curious -- is Fluffy deaf? We had a pure white Persian mix cat with blue eyes many years ago and he was completely deaf. We never had a problem, he even went outside. We would tap the floor so he would feel the vibrations to get his attention. When he was...
Keeping Dishrags Clean
Does it hold water and stay dripping wet when the dishwasher is done? I guess it would depend on what material is used for the dish rag.
Do I have to flour a cake pan?
This recipe will solve your problem. GREASE AND FLOUR 1 cup vegetable oil 1 cup shortening 1 cup flour In a large mixing bowl, mix until smooth with an electric mixer. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until needed. Use this to coat pans for...
Ladybugs in the Window?
How can you tell the difference visually between ladybugs that are good to have in your garden and Asian Beetles?
Dog Tearing Up Papers?
Wal-mart did sell a hard rubber hollow dog toy, I think its in shape of a fire hydrant that you put dog treats inside, something not too small so that the treat doesnt fall out. The idea behind this is the dog will be occupied trying to get the treat out. This...
Another Snoopy Kid Tip
I always told my kids if they ever disturbed their gifts, they would not get them. It was okay if they found them, just dont try to unwrap them. My kids never believed Santa Claus was real because thats what we taught them. We did pretend that he did exist...
Dog Consuming Dog Urine?
You are going have to more specific. Is he just licking to wash the area? If so, this is normal.
Sugared English Walnuts?
CINNAMON NUTS 1 egg white 1 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. water 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 pound nuts ' walnuts, pecans etc. 1 tsp. salt In a large bowl, beat egg white and water together until frothy. Add nuts and stir until completely coated. In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon...
Gas Spilled on Laundry Basket!
HOW TO REMOVE DIESEL ODOR FROM CLOTHES Use citrus based products -- something like Orange Glo all purpose cleaner. Fill a tub with lukewarm water and a substantial amount of Orange cleaner (can use a whole bottle). Let it soak over night. Next day, drain the...
Training a Rottweiler?
She knows the command -- bite, or did you mean no bite? Im hoping its no bite.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Go to the web site, www.foodieview.com and type in Chicken Pot Pie Soup and it will show a number of recipes. This is my favorite web site when searching for specific recipes.
Wild Bird Seed Storage
In our area, we would be feeding the bears if we did this. I put a plastic trash can with seed in it in our garage and somehow the squirrels got into our garage and chewed through the lid and had a feast. We have to store our birdseed in our house. Hopefully...
Puppy Cries When Left Outside?
She hasnt been socialized properly since she was too young to be away from mother and siblings. More patience and understanding is needed when a puppy is that young. If she was with her mother and siblings she would learn and gain confidence to be by herself...
Cleaning Recipes Science Project?
Go to http://www.snipurl.com/libw This website has copies of a 1925 Missouri Farm Womens cookbook. While most of it is recipes, if you scroll towards the end, there are household cleaning tips, listed under miscellaneous, for that era. I find this web site...
Olive Garden Style Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe?
This is not the exact version but my family likes it better than Olive Gardens. TOSCANA SOUP 6 cup chicken broth 1 lb. sweet or spicy Italian sausage 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 tsp. salt, optional 2-3 medium russet potatoes 1/4 - 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes...
Vacuum Deodorizer?
You can keep a scented dryer sheet in a the bag. I had a problem with odor with my canister vacuum cleaner years ago. My sister in law had borrowed it. I have no idea what she used it on but I took the bag out and cleaned as much as I could of the inside of...
Italian Pretzels?
Taralli 'Dense Italian bagels, these fennel seasoned little breads boil briefly before baking. This is a very high volume recipe that is easily halved for a more manageable quantity. .25 ounce package active dry yeast 1 1/2 cups water 1/4 cup margarine 1 1...
Finding Phone Numbers without Directory Assistance
For when you cant use your computer, Free411 phone number -- 1-800-373-3411 Web site: www.free411.com
Removing Heavy Plastic Packaging From Products?
In my opinion, manufacturers should not be allowed to use this packaging. It can be dangerous. Even after you figure a way to cut it, you then have to be careful that you do not slice yourself with the cut plastic. There has to be a remedy to this annoying...
Tire Rubber Smell on Clothing?
More than twenty years ago, both my brothers were tire builders. I remember my Mom would use Lesitoil. I dont know if she soaked them in it or put it in the washer along with the detergent.
Party for Two Toddlers?
Make it basic and simple. They are still very young. At that age, they will accept anything.
Candles With Strong Fragrances?
There were a few times I purchased Yankee brand candles and the scent was weak. I never thought about that they could be old. You can make the scent stronger by adding the same scent or close to the melted wax when you use a candle warmer. I do that frequently...
Smooth Leg Shaving
You can also use hair conditioner on your legs as a substitute for shaving cream. Any brand will work.
Red Lobster Biscuits?
GARLIC CHEDDAR BISCUITS 2 cups biscuit mix or Bisquick 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup (4 oz.) Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 Tablespoons butter or margarine, melted 2/3 cup milk 2 teaspoons dried parsley 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided Preheat oven to 400°F. Stir biscuit...
Birthday Party Ideas That Won't Embarrass?
Have him help with the planning of the party. Being that it is his party, he should be able to come up with some ideas. My son and his friends, boys and girls, would get together and plan small parties. You would be surprised how many good ideas they can have...
Depression Jelly Recipe?
I havent tried this but it sounds interesting. This is from Hillbilly Housewife. GRAPE JELLY 3 cups grape juice (Prepared from frozen concentrate is fine) 1 package powdered pectin 4 cups sugar In a large saucepan combine the prepared grape juice and the powdered...
Ice Crystals Forming When I Freeze Bread?
I have had luck by putting a dry paper towel in with the bread before freezing and double bagging. Keep paper towel in the bread while thawing. I lay the towel at the bottom of the bread.
Thin Pizza Crust Recipe?
To prevent the pizza dough from springing back, try letting it rest for a minute or less. This is what I do when I shape my pizza dough.
Using Boric Acid or Borax for Pest Control and Cleaning?
Boric acid is not safe for people or animals. Please read the container for the warnings. It is different than Borax. Always read the entire label on any product, especially when you are not familiar with it.
