Changing My Family's Eating Habits?
My advice, as far as making the changes stick is probablly not to expect the kids (or yourself for that matter) to make the changes all at once. If you do them gradually, it wont be quite as big a shock to the system, and you wont feel quite as deprived. Good...
Six Year Old Keeps Peeing on the Floor?
You need to discuss this with your step-sons doctor. Either there is a medical reason for his continuing to do this, or it he is angry about something and using this as a somewhat safe passive-aggresive way to show it. If he has only recently moved in with...
Vicks Vapor Rub for Minor Burns
Yes. I said not to do this immediately. If you put anything greasy on a burn directly after it happens it will actually make the burn worse. This is why preferred first aid for any burn is to run cold water over it, or to treat it with ice. Im talking about...
Gift Ideas For Boyfriend's Daughter?
There are some beautiful travel books out there as well as videos and DVDs. How about a book or video either of a location that she has already visited and enjoyed, or of someplace that she has yet to go, or has mentioned wanting to go in the future? Also, you...
Bleach Bottle Piggy
We did these in Girl Scouts when I was little, and they were really cute! Then when I had kids, a friend of my Moms did a similar project with empty glass jugs from cider or vinegar. The hole was in the metal lid on the snout of the pig, and she cut cute little...
Information About Ceramic Pot?
It looks like Frankhoma pottery out of Oklahoma. The color and markings are exactly like theirs, so its probably either that or a knock off.
Soy Sauce Eggplant
That looks more like Zucchini than eggplant, both in color and shape. Eggplant is more egg-shaped and generally purple (although the white variety is good as well) while zucchini is generally thinner and more elongated. The plants are similar, and Im sure either...
Raising a Non-Picky Child
I used a 3 and 3 rule with my kids when they were small. When I served them something new, they had to try 3 bites of it and if they didnt like it that was enough, for most foods I would offer it and have them to try 3 bites on 3 different occasions. After...
Favorite Recipes from North Carolina?
Many also like Carolina burgers...a hamburger with chili and slaw
Sears Riding Mower Not Getting Gas to the Carburetor?
Did you also replace the fuel lines and the filter? If not, replace those fiirst before thinking about the fuel pump.
Cleaning Black Prickly Stuff on Wooden Porch?
Yes, it is a type of mold. Put bleach solution in a garden sprayer (the kind you would use for weed killer) and spray on the surface, then rinse off with pressure washer on a medium/low setting. (NEVER run bleach through your pressure washer, it could cause...
Christmas Gift for 16 Year Old Hunter Boyfriend?
The first year that my (Fisherman) husband and I were dating, I didnt know what to get for his birthday. I knew he loved fishing, but he had tons of stuff, and I didnt know what he needed. I bought him a giftcard to Bass Pro Shop and he was thrilled! He had...
Having Trees Cleared for Free?
I dont know if it will work the same there, but here in NC, in this type of situation, one would place an ad advertising wood for free. State in the ad that the person can have the wood for free as long as they cut it themselves.
Finding Fuse on Craftsman Mower?
I am a customer service rep for several lawn and garden companies. Usually when it says that the fuse is behind the dash you actually have to raise the hood and go in through the engine compartment and the fuse is most likely in the wiring harness. Hope this...
Heating Contractor Who Takes Payments?
That would be something that each individual company would decide. Call around, you may be able to find someone in your area who is willing to take payments. Good luck!
Name for Commercial Interior Designing Firm?
How about Double Helix (like the structure of DNA). Helix for residential and Double Helix for commercial.
VA Disability and Child Support Arrears?
Child support is a totally separate issue. You will still owe any arrears that you owe, and current support will be calculated based on your disability amount. My 21 year olds father is STILL paying me back support (and his is on VA Disability) although not...
Sugar Free Popsicles?
Easy! Freeze pure fruit juice or sugar-free koolaid in either popsicle molds or paper cups with popsicle sticks.
Growing Up an Only Child?
I have a unique perspective. While I am actually the baby of 6, I grew up more like an only child because they were all out of the home by the time I was 4. I was very lonely as a child. I begged my Mom to have/adopt another or more child(ren). I craved having...
Connecting a GFCi Outlet to GFCi Circuit Breaker?
I work in a call center offering tech support for lawn and garden tools, including electric pressure washers and this is a question we get a lot. The answer is yes. The manufacture of two different brands that we support have us advise consumers that this is...
Create a Work Club for Household Chores
This makes me think of my precious late mother. She had many fond memories of such an arrangement that she had with 4 of her friends as a young wife. They all had boy names, Billye, Robby, Marty, Freddie and Pat! They did the same thing, one day at each of...
Preventing Freezer Odor?
In order to remove the odors, you may need to defrost your freezer. You definitely need to remove the food and wipe down all the interior surfaces with a white vinegar/water mixture. If there is still an odor, you will want to place activated charcoal in your...
Resolving Conflict With Spouse?
Sasha, He is definitely abusing you - mentally and financially, if not physically. It may be only a matter of time before the physical abuse returns. Do you want your daughter to be treated like he is treating you? He has you convinced right now that everything...
Homecoming Float Ideas?
Warriors and Chargers suggets a wild west theme - How about warriors bust the chargers, and depict a cowboy or an indian busting a bronco?
Slogan for Family Daycare?
How about We help your child spread their wings? Something to do with wings, independence and readiness for school.
Mower Won't Start?
I do light tech for lawn and garden equipment, so I may be of some help. Not knowing whether you have a push mower or a riding mower, I am giving you the trouble shooting for a push mower that will not start. Unit will not start Possible Causes -- Corrective...
Removing Rust from Cast Iron Pans and Molds?
Although it requires a lot of elbow grease, your best bet is to clean it with steel wool. Be sure to rinse well, dry completely and season your cast iron after cleaning.
Shopping for Foam Grill Scrubber?
I bought a pack of two at Kmart about a year ago; if theres not a Kmart near you, try http://www.kmart.com
Natural Remedies for Roaches?
The boric acid that is sold specifically for roaches is not very effective, but if you go to the pharmacy and buy Boric Acid Eye Wash and sprinkle it in areas such as behind the fridge and stove. I have seen this work in situations where professional exterminators...
Dry Laundry Soap for Twenty Dollars a Year
Washing soda and Borax are two different things, thats why it calls for both!
Getting Rid of Roaches?
Dont get the regular Boric Acid powder that is marketed for roach control, roaches often just feed off of this. Go to the drugstore and ask the pharmacist for Boric Acid Eyewash; just a little of this powder sprinkled in spots like under the fridge and behind...
Child Support Payment and Taxes?
Each state is a bit different. But generally a person must pay at least 51% of the childs living expenses in order to claim them & court ordered support is nowhere near that
Child Support Payment and Taxes?
Each state is a bit different. But generally a person must pay at least 51% of the childs living expenses in order to claim them & court ordered support is nowhere near that.
Wii Games
I was going to say the very same thing. Just make sure that you get a guarantee; most pawn shops will exchange (almost never refund) games, movies and music CDs for a certain number of days after purchase - just be sure that you test the games out within that...
Removing Ink Stains from Clothes?
Believe it or not, the most effective ink remover is non-aerosole hairspray. Simply spray it on the stain let it set for a minute or two and wash with your regular wash. I bought a beautiful, almost new pair of cream colored dress pants from the thrift store...
Canning Hot Peppers?
Ive never tried actually canning them, but we pickle them. We simply put them in a jar with a vinegar and water mix (the proportion of each depends on taste) and close the lid tightly. We have had some last more than a year like this, and my DH loves them!
Corn And Macaroni
Same question about the macaroni, but Im assuming not to drain the corn since it doesnt say drained.
Using Cream Cheese Icing Successfully?
Yes, Cream Cheese Icing is great on almost any kind of cake. Just wait until it cools completely so that the icing wont melt.
Freezing Yellow Squash?
Slice and batter if desired, lay on a cookie sheet and freeze, then place in baggies in freezer to store.
Foil Pocket Meal
These can be cooked in the oven as well. Growing up my Mom made what we called Hobo Dinners, a recepie that she had used with Boy Scouts and Campfire Girls when my brothers and sisters were younger. For each person, in a square of foil paper place a large hamburger...
Business Name Ideas for a Handyman and Renovation Service?
Mikes Rent-A-Husband, Well do your honey-dos for less
Celery Aids Digestion With Beans
Does it help reduce the gas? My DH loves beans, but I dont love the gas he has afterward.
Duke in the Texas Bluebonnets
What an absolutely precious picture! Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
Formula for Mechanic's Hand Cleaner
Thanks for the recipe, sounds great. But just to clarify, there is a big difference between corn meal and grits. Corn meal is finely ground corn, similar to flour. Grits are made from Hominy and are more like a hot cereal (similar to oatmeal or porridge but...
Family: Dakota With His First Bass
What a cutie! And he is understandably proud. He has a great future as an outdoorsman. I urge you to get him involved with Boy Scouts when he starts school. He will really enjoy that. God bless you Dakota!
Netflix Instant Movies on Your Wii
They also have instant play options for the PS3 and the XBox 360; there are also devices that you can buy at places like Best Buy to hook to you television to receive the streaming movies. They are fairly inexpensive.
Netflix Instant Movies on Your Wii
Just as an update -- viewing Netflix via your Wii no longer requires a disc! You are able to simply log on to your account from your Wii!
Funky Fritos
Sounds yummy! My Mom is from Oklahoma, and grew up in Lawton; bet you eat Frito Pie too.
Controlling Seafood Smells In Garbage
I always wonder why more people dont do this. I do this with any smelly garbage, like onion peels and trimmings, tuna or salmon cans, etc. It never fails that if someone is over when Im cooking and I do this, they say something along the lines of why didnt...
Clean Clothes Smell Bad?
Also, you can clean your washer by running a load with just water and a cup or two of white vinegar.
Rising Costs of 3D Movies
We also have a drive-in, and its great. They ALWAYS have at least a double feature, and often a triple feature for one price. You can bring your own snacks (we pack a cooler w/ our drinks, pop, our own popcorn and bring other snacks from home), we spread a...
Contact City, Not State For Birth Certificate
In most areas, especially rural ones, you contact the county, not the city. But still, quicker than the state, because the county level is where the birth, death, and marriage certificates are actually filed and kept.
Work on Tips in a Document
I do the same thing, but this is one of those tips that people dont think about, because its so simple!
Kerosene Heater For Power Outages
One of the best steaks I ever had was cooked on a kerosene heater! My parents used to cook beans or homemade soup on the heater all the time when I was a kid, even when the power wasnt out.
Bacon Cheese Dip
I was thinking the same thing. I guess I will try it and just add mayo til it looks/tastes right to me.
Best Sweet Pickles
Sounds delicious and really easy. I prefer dill and my DH likes sweet. This might be the perfect solution!
Mark Your Gift Cards and Coupons
What a good idea! Most of the time, it probablly is that the wait staff is working hard, not purposely misplacing your things. This idea helps them and you.
Robin's Thrifty Tips: Share With Your Friends
Ive always wanted to learn to can and preserve, but my Mom was afraid the pressure cooker would explode and wouldnt let me help; now that shes gone, theres no one to teach me. I think this is the year I get the Blue Book and teach myself!
Using Canned Lima Beans?
You can always add them to soup recipes, casseroles. Substitute them for other beans in most recipes.
Watch Fine Print on Warranties
To prevent this, if you know you are not going to be using the item right away, purchase the extended warranty, that way youre covered. I know this sounds un-thrifty, but in the long run, it will save you money if the item doesnt work. I worked the return desk...
Carry an Insulated Shopping Bag in Your Car
I even found these bags at the Dollar Tree the other day! Best find in a while, even if my DH did say, Why in the world do you need that thing?
Inexpensive Ways to Lose Weight?
Login using the form on the top of the page to post feedback if you have registered with ThriftyFun. If you have not yet registered, click here. Its FREE!. If you are not registered you can post feedback as a guest below. Please dont use your email address...
Losing 20 lbs. in Two Months?
I am using the Low Carb diet, like Atkins, and I lose an average of 2-3 lbs a week. You can check out the science behind why this works by reading Dr. Atkins books, or by checking out http://www.Atkins.com there are a lot of great recipes on the website. Be...
Recycling Wipe Pouches for Storage
Hadnt thought about these. Good idea. I always used the bigger boxes of wipes, and reused those containers for storage -- mostly of the kids stuff. Theyre great for crayons, legos etc.
Entertainment Center has Mildew Smell?
You probablly need to combine the above solutions. You need both to kill the growth, and to deodorize. (Furniture polish doesnt clean or disinfect, it only shines) The bleach solution or a Pinesol like product to kill the mold/mildew -- when you are cleaning...
Easy Diabetic Recipes?
For lo carb, check out Atkins.com. Now, if you have diabetic problems, you will want to read the recipe through carefully, but for the most part, they are great!
Using Leftover Uncooked Pasta?
My kids always thought it was cool to mix the pasta shapes in any kind of dish, no matter what kind of sauce or whatever we were using. Also, if you are making a pasta salad, it looks fancier if you use different shapes; you look more creative! :) One of my...
4 Portion Tomato Soup
By Stock Cube which kind do you mean? Do you use beef stock, chicken stock, vegetable stock or tomato and chicken?
Organizing Hair Accessories?
I have a pretty plastic basket that I use. I clip jaw clips and such around the edges and hang hard plastic headbands over the edges, or lay them in the bottom of the basket. I put all my scrunchies, elastics, hair clips (the ones that are like quilters clips...
Problems With Printable Coupons?
I work in a retail store, and the reason, as some have stated before that some stores do not accept the coupons from the internet is because it is difficult for the cashier to verify if they are fraudulant or not. As for thriftyboos comment: I know some stores...
Tootsie Roll Mouse?
I dont know about tootsie roll mice, but my friend makes some that are made with a Hersheys kiss and a choocolate covered cherry. She melts white chocolate for the glue. The kiss is turned on its side for the mouses head and attached to the cherry for the body...
Use a Child's Wading Pool as a Garden
What a wonderful idea! This is also a good idea for those who have poor soil and cant garden as is and for those who rent and dont want to dig up their landlords property. Plus the fact that you were able to recycle. Good for you!
Valentine's Day Letter
This is a great idea, and it can be adapted for anyone you love! Not just your significant other, but your kids, your parents or grandparents, your siblings, even special friends. I would love getting one myself.
Weaning a Child Off a Pacifier?
What worked for us with my oldest son (Who was severelly addicted to his pacy) was that I quit using the pacy holders and got rid of all but one pacy and I made it his responsibility to keep up with that one. I told him that he could have his pacy, but if he...
My Frugal Life: Have a Garage Sale
And dont forget that you are also helping others! You are giving people an opportunity to buy something they need/want/can use at a much cheaper price than if they bought it new!
Making a Family Food Budget?
I fed 3 of us on a $50 a week budget, and one of us was a rather large man. We didnt stick to ramen and mac and cheese. We didnt miss many nights without meat - - he wouldnt have heard of it! You have to be a smart shopper. Get your nonperishables at dollar...
Junk Food Cravings When Quitting Smoking?
My dad had to quit for health reasons, and my mom quit with him to help him out. My mom used gum or peppermint discs when she had a craving, my dad wasnt fond of mint, so he used butterscotch discs. I was lucky enough to be able to quit without much trouble...
Link: Knorr Spinach Dip
Just to let you know, for some reason, your link wont work. When you click on it you get the following message: Runtime Error Description: An application error occurred on the server. The current custom error settings for this application prevent the details...
Chewing Gum While on Atkins Diet?
Sugar-free gum is fine when counting carbs, just remember that not all sugar-free foods are low carb. Always check your labels for carbs per serving. Good luck!
Prevent Food from Sticking
Corning Ware also had a version. Of course theirs werent clear glass, they were made of Corning Ware to match the rest of your set and also included the wire star. My Mom loved hers and used it for many, many years, until finally the handle broke from use.
Scratch and Dent Stores Near Greensboro, NC?
So glad you asked this question. I live in Reidsville and go to both Burlington and Greensboro frequently. Maybe we can get some answers.
Looking for Old Fairy Tales Book?
Dont know if this will help you or not, but since we are in the same general area, the book that I had could be the same one. I loved mine too, but unfortunately it is long gone. Was the cover mostly blue with medieval looking decorations on it? If it is the...
Losing Inches from Your Waist?
I am doing Atkins and doing incrediblly well, but they say that is difficult to maintain while also doing vegetarian menus. Not impossible, but difficult. You might want to check it out and see if it is something that you think you can do. Good luck! http://www...
Spray Freshener from Dryer Sheets
A trick that a friend recently told me, that she got from Martha Stewart -- Refill the Febreeze bottle with water and add half a cap of liquid softener (Downy, Snuggle, Suavetiel... whatever)
Bring Back Thrift Week!
That was just a bit before my time, but I love the idea. They should bring this back, especially in these tough economic times. Maybe people would make more out of what they have. One of the reasons that times are as tough right now as they are for most people...
Use Onion Salt With Mashed Potatoes
Great idea! I personally use a lot of celery salt (no it doesnt taste like celery!) and theres always garlic salt. Or how bout a mix of two or all three?!?
Tips for Frying Chicken?
The main thing that you need to do is not cook it too fast. Start out on a lower heat setting and let it cook, if you cook it at too high a setting, the outside can get scorched before the inside is done. The way that you tell that chicken is done on the inside...
Homemade Over-the-Hill "Survival Kit"?
Arthritis Strength Tylenol, FlexAll or other pain relief creme, Ginko Biloba for memory, Black Cohash for hot flashes, Large Print books or crossword puzzles, depends, Wrinkle creme, Shampoo for thinning hair...
Learning to Use the Computer and Internet?
I have actually seen a book available in catalogs such as Harriet Carter and Lillian Vernon that is like the computers for Dummies series, but is specifically designed for seniors. You might want to check this out. Both companies have online sites.
Recipes Using Oranges?
A very simple, yet yummy way to use up your oranges is oranges with honey. Simply slice your oranges in half, and put the halves in a baking dish. Drizzle a generous amount of honey over them and sprinkle with just a touch of cinammon. Bake in a 350 degree...
Percolator Coffee is Very Weak?
Have you tried simply increasing the amount of coffee that you put in? I know this is obvious and simple, but sometimes a simple solution is all that is needed.
Spreading Sour Cream on Tortillas?
If youre making soft tacos or other such foods, just put the meat and other fillings on the tortillia and put a stripe of sour cream down the middle. Then, when you roll it up to eat it, youll get sour cream in every bite!
What Does DH Mean?
DH -- Dear Husband DS -- Dear Son DD -- Dear Daughter But I love the idea of Dumb Husband! LOL!
Storing Knee High Boots Upright
Also, another option is to use the empty carboard tubes that paper towels came on. These work great! So now you have 2 thrifty options to keep your boots nice and un-slouchy.
Save Spaghetti Cooking Water to Wash Greasy Dishes
Never heard this one. But anything that makes it easier to wash greasy dishes is for me!!!
Looking For Quick and Easy Fudge Recipe?
The absolute best fudge recipe in the world is the Dream Fudge recipe from the jar of Kraft Marmallow Creme. It is fluffy, sweet and delicious and is equally good with or without nuts.
Hanging Pictures on the Wall?
You could think about moving some of these photos to other places in your home and bringing in other photos or items to mix in among your photo arrangement. You could include plaques, decorative plates, and other decorations to hang on the wall amongst your...
Watch the Cash Register Screen When Checking Out
Speaking as someone in customer service, if you notice the mistake after it has been rang up, go directly to the customer service desk. But, dont just take your receipt, because all the receipt will usually get is the same price that you were already charged...
Clover Valley Pudding and Pie Filling?
Everyone is right about this. Clover Valley is Dollar Generals House Brand. That is where you must go to get it.
Red Lobster Style Coleslaw?
This is supposed to be KFC Slaw, its pretty good! Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw Not the actual recipe, but tastes much like it. Ingredients 1/3 c. sugar 1/2 t. salt 1/8 t. pepper 1/4 c. milk 1/2 c. mayonnaise 1/4 c. buttermilk 1 1/2 T. white vinegar 2 1...
Bunnies Have Crusty Noses?
It depends on what you mean by crusty. Could just be that they have a cold. Or it could be that theyve rubbed them a bit raw.
Removable Glue?
We used glue dots in production and packaging for some products and it acted pretty much like that. I expect that it is rubber cement that the glue dots were made of.
Kmart Offering Layaway Plans For Christmas
The only thing is that PER KMART CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS, all holiday layaways must be out by Dec. 5, thats about 10 days earlier than last year. Still a great way to go, but just be aware, so you dont get your layaway returned to stock. Happy Holidays
Bar of Soap Down the Toilet?
Try hot water, then baking soda, followed by the vinegar. Then hot water again
Finding Jeans That Fit?
Have you tried Mens Jeans? They may or may not give you the illusion of junk in the trunk, but they will probablly take care of your other problems. Mens jeans are sold by waist size and length, and also most men have flatter butts. Also, usually mens jeans...
Cider Vs. White Vinegar?
As for cleaning, white seems to be the best -- for one thing, less odor! :) Personally, on food, I prefer apple cider vinegar, it is a bit more sour and has more of a bite. But, again, that is my personal preference, you might prefer white vinegar for the same...
Budget Friendly Ways to Kid Friendly Products
To customize composition books and folders, you can cut words, phrases, and pictures out of magazines and from newspaper inserts (such as coupons) -- I keep a folder with interesting pictures and phrases at all times, as they can also be used for scrapbooking...
Keeping My Elderly Mother from Driving?
We went through similar situation with my Mom. And my kids were there often, even before the Dr finally took her license, I had told the kids not to get in the car with Grandma, that that was the one time they had my permission to actively disobey her, for...
Recommendations for "Freebie" Websites?
Also try signing up for the group VocalPoint. They send you some awesome samples and coupons, and all they ask is that you provide them with your opinions and feedback. Good luck and happy sampling!
Making Adult Cry Baby Costume?
Ive done a baby or toddler for my own costume a couple of times and had lots of compliments. What I did was put my hair up in pigtails and tie ribbons in them. I put freckles on my face with an eye pencil in one case, and with a brownish lipstick in the other...
Mini Vacations Near Statesville, NC?
If you chose Old Salem, right close to there is Tanglewood, in Clemmons and they have a show w/ the lights every year that is incredible! You drive through and the displays are awesome!
Litter Box Training a Guinea Pig?
When I had my beloved Miss Piggy, I did a lot of research and even joined an email list for Guinea pigs, and one thing that I learned is that they are SUPPOSED to eat their poop! I know its disgusting, but apparently there is something there that their bodies...
Removing Makeup From Face?
Also, try using a toner or astringent on a clean cotton ball or cotton pad after washing your face. Or use the astringent pads. These help prevent blemishes, and help to get every last trace of makeup off of your skin, just dont use them around your eyes!
Winter Tip: Keep Clean, Dry Socks Handy
What a great tip. I walk to work and have arrived with absolutely soaked feet due to a sudden downpour, and I dont sit, I stand for hours! I was actually able to buy a new pair of socks, but my shoes were sodden and squishy! I tried drying them under the hand...
What Is Nutella?
Its great on toast, in a sandwich, on Graham Crackers or saltines or Ritz.... basically anything that you do with peanutbutter, you can do with Nutella. Its good in celery, on apples.... mix it into icecream.... anything. YUMMY!
Scenery: Autumn Driving In Virginia
Wow. Beautiful pic. Is that Mabrys Mill? We used to go there like every year when I was a kid; it brings back lots of memories.
