Frugal Dog Toys?
My dog, Jake loves me to put a raw carrot into an old sock and tie off the top. They last him a few days. You can throw them for the dog to fetch, too.
Gift Basket for a Reader
Great idea. You could add more books a candle, candy, whatever. I love to receive books. One year I gave someone a huge shopping bag of old books.
A New Holiday Tradition... Homemade Gifts
I have been making embroidered pillowcases since Feburary for this years Christmas. They are about $10.00 a pair & then the thread (floss) is very inexpensive.
A Tiny Gift to Enclose
I like tuck-ins too. At Christmas, I like to enclose crochet snowkflake ornaments. They lay nice & flat & dont weigh much. I had never thought of the tea bags. Very nice idea. Thank you.
Being Frugal and Single on Low Income?
Back 30 years ago, I lived on $224.00 per month. 1. Have you applied for food stamps, fuel assistance, etc.? (think of it as a temporary measure) 2. give up phones (cell & landline) 3. give up cable, Internet 4. turn down heat, a/c at night 5. turn off water...
Sand for Aquariums
There was a problem with play sand having bits of asbestos in it (can you believe it?). Has this been fixed?
Moving Supplies Checklist
I might add, use towels, sheets, sewing remnants, sweaters, etc. to protect your packed stuff. They have to be moved anyway, you might as well put them to use with your china & good things. Youll save by not buying protective packaging & everything wont be...
Removing Mildew on House Siding?
I lived in Louisiana for about 20 years. I had my house pressure washed every year or two. It thoroughly took off any mold or dirt. The house was brick with exposed wood & trim & soffits. Any areas that didnt get direct sun, often got a little mold. The pressure...
Clothes Wrinkled After Washing and Line Drying?
I use fabric softener & everything, but if it isnt windy the stuff is still wrinkled after drying.
My Frugal Life: Thrift Store Shopping
I buy shoes at thrift stores too. I spray with disinfectant before wearing. I bought brand new Timberlake boots at Savers (a chain of thrift stores) for $25.00. I absolutely love them. That was my most expensive single buy ever. I only buy new or gently used...
My Frugal Life - Why I Love Yard Sales
When I host a yard sale, I fill up a metal tub with ice & drinks & sell those too.
Organizing Your Closet
Old shower curtain hooks can be used to attach belts, jewelry, scarves, etc. to a hanger.
Save Your Old Shower Curtain
They are also good to put on the car seat when the dog is riding with you. Also, put under a highchair to catch spilled food. Thanks for the other hints.
Creamy Clam Chowder
I live at the ocean with a lobster fisherman husband. Heres New England Clam Chowder (or add fish, and /or creamed corn): 1. fry onions (I like a lot - maybe 3 medium onions) 2. add potatoes (I like about 6 medium)& water to just barely cover 3. add salt pork...
Boston Clam Chowder
RE: Creamy Clam Chowder Post by mulberry204 (32) | (07/01/2008) Contact Edit Post I live at the ocean with a lobster fisherman husband. Heres New England Clam Chowder (or add fish, and /or creamed corn): 1. fry onions (I like a lot - maybe 3 medium onions) 2...
A&D Ointment As Night Cream
One of the posters mentioned that she uses zinc oxide on her face. Zinc oxide is now recognized as a cancer causer. It is used in other things too, such as sun block. It would be better to use something else.
Healthy Easter Baskets?
I was a health food hippie too. I bought the fillable eggs & put trinkets inside & hid the eggs. I put coins in some of the eggs, sugar free bubblegum, small toys, erasers, etc. I also liked to include a book or 2 in the basket.
First Apartment Gift
For women getting their 1st place, tools are a good idea. A small hammer, some various size screw drivers (or a battery powered one), etc. all come in handy.
Removing Odor From China Cabinet?
I tried a lot of these ideas for an old trunk, also tried bunched up newspapers. What worked for me was to place it in the sun for a few days. I dont know if that would work for finished furniture.
Cleaning Recipe for Siding?
When I had my brick & painted wood house pressure washed, the man always used bleach & water.
Discontinued Wallpaper: Northwoods II, #251-64962?
Did you try any of the discontinued wallpaper distributers? Google for them. They carry 1,000s of discontinued patterns. I hope you find what you need.
Making Wick Disks for Wine Bottle Oil Lamps?
I bought a package of those very cheaply - like 3 or more for a dollar. They included a bunch of the little wicks - which seem to be stiffer then regular wicks. Maybe Yankee Candle has some. Good luck.
Pantyliner Stuck To Clothes After Washing?
I have never had that happen, but I would try putting Goop - the liquidy handsoap mechanics use (cheap) on the residue, let it sit, & wash. I wouldnt put anything in the dryer until you get it clean. What a mess. Good luck!
Lawn Mower Blades Will Not Spin?
They might have a rope or something similar wrapped around them. Have someone else check for you, so that the motor doesnt turn after you unwind (chop off your fingers). The engine might have quit. You need to get the blades sharpened every year anyway, so...
Planning a BBQ for 100 People?
Just a thought....with the price of beef & all the recalls, it is cheaper to BBQ chicken. I boil mine first to make sure it is thoroughly cooked. Good luck. It sounds like fun.
What Are You Doing to Pinch Pennies?
I gave up my cell phone plan & bought a cell phone for $19.00+, and purchased $20.00 worth of minutes (about 300 minutes). The minutes lasted 4 months, so I saved a bundle over the usualy $39.99 per month plan. No difference in quality, in fact I like this...
What Are You Doing to Pinch Pennies?
My best savings ever: when I lived in Louisiana I purchased sun screens for the house. They paid for themselves in saved energy costs the first 2 years. They were wonderful. The house was so much cooler, the shades kept people from seeing in during the day...
Take Your Plastic Bags Back to the Store
If you are taking the plastic bags back to Walmart for recycling, I was told by a store employee that Walmart just throws the bags out. I was so disappointed.
Why Did Puppy Get Parvo After Starting Shots?
Have you checked with the breeder to see if the other puppies also have parvo? Maybe when you bought him, he was already infected. We lost 2 dogs to parvo about 20 years ago. I hope he gets better.
How Often Do You Paint Brick?
I had my brick & siding house pressure washed every year or two & the paint stayed good for 15 years. I used quality paint to start with.
My Frugal Life: Saluting The "Freegans"
OH! I love to trash pick too. I found 2 antique - perfect cane seated chairs at the curb one day. Eash is valued at over $200.00. Those were my best finds. I love to go shopping on the day the trash truck comes by. I had to pass on a hope chest that was at...
Venting a Dryer Inside?
I used my dryer a few times when the hose became disconnected, & saw mold spores. It was very damp. I dont think its a good idea at all.
Short Term Cover for a Wet Paint Brush
If you dont want to wash your paintbrush, & you are using acrylic paint, you can wrap your paintbrush in a blastic bag or plastic wrap & freeze. It thaws beautifully.
Looking For Okra Recipes?
Its good in gumbo, soup & smothered in a fry pan with a little water, some chopped tomatoes & onions, & a tablespoon or so of vinegar to cut the slime. Cook until done.
Looking For Suave Alpha-hydroxy Product?
A year ago I started getting a lot of age spots. Also my neck was getting old looking. I started to use Wal-Marts Equate brand apricot scrub on my neck & face everyday. I use a nail brush on my arms & sometimes - lightly on my neck. I also try to massage my...
Color Suggestions For Kitchen With Hunter Green Cabinets?
Just wanted to comment, that I live at the beach in New England. The whole house is only about 125 square feet bigger then your kitchen. No kids. One bedroom. Big deck. Whole beach. Bathroom in the basement. Its a trade off to live here. I just love it.
Recipes Using Bamboo Shoots?
You can wash them off and add to salad, add to sandwiches, eat raw, egg foo yong, rice dishes,- add to things you want to add a crunch to.
Enzyme Cleaner Didn't Completely Remove Urine Odor?
At the Dollar Tree Dollar Store, I bought a bottle of Urine Smell Begone for $1.00! It does seem to work for me. I used vinegar like one of the other posters on my last puppy, it also seems to work. Resolve Carpet Cleaner didnt work.
Seashell Christmas Globe Ornaments
Thank you for all the comments and ideas. I guess my idea has been thought of before :) I will post a picture when I can figure out my new digital camera.
Chocolate Potato Bon Bons
Oh I used to make a version of this recipe about 40 years ago. Yes, you eat the wax! and the candies are delicious.
Creole Bean Soup
I love bean soup too. So cheap & filling. I add more vegetables - whatever I have on hand: squash, green beans, mushrooms, etc. I also like Italian spices in it ( a mix of oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary), and I like hot peppers in mine, or hot sauce.
Craft: Ninja Mitts
You have beautiful children. Its great that they can use their imaginations to play.
Can I Plant Crape Myrtles in the Summer?
HI! When I lived in Louisiana, my crepe myrtles were in full sun for about 1/2 the day. My soil was like yours. I would plant them (or just plant 2 if you are very worried), & water frequently. I would try to add something to the soil to make it a little lighter...
Cutting Costs Around The House?
Heres a few ideas: 1. make your own cleaning products (safer for you & the enviroment) 2. use a cell phone plan where you purchase minutes (I bought the phone for $20.00 & $20.00 worth of minutes last me 3 months. Cost per month after the phone purchase is...
Cutting Costs Around The House?
I guess I would have taken the bulb out (I am not sure if that would be safe either), & called someone. Its terrible that new things dont work right anymore.
Spot (Beagle)
Spot is very cute. I have a miniature beagle who is 4 months old. Jake is a terror. He chews everything he can get ahold of. I hope he outgrows this soon.
Save Web Addresses On Index Cards
I use a rolodex for internet & other addresses. When you want to change an address, turn the card over, or use a new card. Address books get so messy looking.
Simple Recipe for Clam Chowder?
My hubby is a lobsterman (after retiring as an electrician). Here is a Yankee clam chowder: 1. fry up a piece of salt pork that has been cut into small cubes (or use 3 pieces of bacon). 2. add 2-3 good size sliced onions 3. when onions are clear, add 5 (more...
Mushroom Macaroni
I used to make that too. I would add onions & green peppers to the boiling macaroni water. Sometimes I added left over chicken, or turkey, sausage, whatever.
Becoming A Vegetarian?
I saved money & time when I was a vegetarian. I went that route for 9 years - no meat, fish or poultry - yes to eggs & cheese. I was thinner too. I think I was missing something - maybe B vitamins, as my hair became thinner & less vibrant. I also started to...
Shop For Christmas During Back To School
As a retired teacher who had to supply many children, I ALSO liked getting Christmas gifts of pencils, erasers, etc. You would be surprised how much some teachers have to spend on their classes.
Homemade Remedies For Common Ailments?
If you have GERD, it helps to raise the head of the bed a few inches. An arthritis cure that did not work for me, is to empty a package of raisins into a jar, cover with gin & let sit for about 11 days. Then you are to eat 9 raisins a day. Yoqurt helps aid...
Removing Sour Milk From Leather Seats?
A friend had something similar happen in her Mercedes. She was never able to get the smell completely out. I would see a professionl too.
Colorful Perennials In Northern Texas?
How about flowering kale & cabbage? Camellias grow in Louisiana. Do they grow in Texas? They are beautiful during the colder months. Pansies are beautiful.
Protecting Carpet From Food Spills?
How about using a large & colorful area rug under the table? Ive noticed on TV, that a lot of people use the same area rugs in the diningroom & livingroom to tie the rooms together, also the colors help with the decorating scheme.
Who Should Pay To Have My Carpet Cleaned?
At the least, I think you should tell the guy responsible & his boss. I would talk to Walmarts about the incident. They do try to make the customers happy. Good luck. What an awful mess.
23 Skidoo Organizing Tip
I started doing something similar - 15 things thrown away a day & I set the timer for 15 minutes to do a job I dreaded. I usually ended up throwing more things away & the dreaded jobs usually turned out to be not too bad.
Putting Artwork On Wine Glasses?
I bought a fine glass engraving pen & use it to etch designs on glasses. It is battery powered. I dont know if this tip will help you at all, but I thought I would offer it. I was thinking it you painted a design on a glass, it might be interesting to add some...
Frugal Christmas Gifts For Teens?
When my daughter was 15 or so & every year after that, I would buy her a brown bag full of 2nd hand books. I picked these up at garage sales, the 2nd hand book store, etc. She always loves getting books. In the end, the kids will remember the times you spent...
Is Dog's Shedding Caused By Lack Of Vitamins?
I like to give my dog about 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil if his coat is dull & often in the winter. He doesnt seem to shed at all. Also, I use the higher end dog food & he is very healthy. The vet recommended several varieties & said use less then conventional...
Butterfly Bush Not Blooming?
I bought some butterfly bushes online from Guerneys - around the beginning of June. When they arrived they were about 12 inches tall, & not very full - a few leaves. I planted right away and they are lush & full now & covered in blooms. The longest branches...
Dog Is Aggressive After Owner Died?
The first poster is right. I 2nd her suggestion about Ceasar the Dog Whisperer. Get his book or a training tape. You can proably watch his show every day & see similar dog problems. He feels like he is top dog, & you need to be in charge.
Recipe Ideas For Someone Who Hates To Cook?
There is a wonderful cookbook for people who hate to cook. It is called the I Hate to Cookbook, by Peg Bracken. I believe it is out of print - but I am sure you can find it at the library. All the recipes are very easy. I love its beef stroganoff that uses...
White Material With Chili Peppers?
There are lots & lots of hot pepper curtains & valences, probably material too, on eBay, I would also try Trappeys in New Iberia, Louisiana. I am unable to find their website, but I know they have one. They carry all kinds of things related to hot peppers & are...
Regrowing Hair?
I had major hair loss a year ago. The dermatologist said you can lose a lot of hair from stress, from surgeries, or genetic. He didnt offer any help, but when my life calmed down, I regrew a lot of new hair.
Keeping Fire Ants Out of Potted Plants
When I lived in Louisiana, I used raw grits on red ants. I am not sure why they kill the ants, Ive heard the ants explode, but it did work. Non-toxic & cheap - worth a try.
Get Wedding Flowers Locally
My sister did something similar. She bought large, fancy clay pots & they were filled with geraniums & something else in the wedding colors. They were used as centerpeices on the tables. People took them home afterwards & enjoyed them for the rest of the summer...
Using 3-Piece Clay Cooker?
I think you put water into the bottom part, place the chicken or whatever on the middle rack, & use the cover. I think this steams the food.
Managing Arthritis Pain In Knee?
I had my meniscus fixed in both knees & just had knee replacement in my right knee. I never found anything that helped the pain except for cortisone injections, & they will only do those every 3 months. The knee replacement was one of the worst things I have...
Noise Device to Repel Cat?
If you can grab her, tie a bell around her neck & the birds will be safe. Id spray her with the water hose.
Treats For Large Dogs?
I give my dog a fresh raw carrot a few times a week. He loves them. They are good for his teeth & not too fattening.
Homemade Weight Loss Dog Food?
My fat little beagle gets dry food & raw vegetables. He loves carrots & he will eat green beans, & most fruits.
Yellow Finches Stopped Coming?
I am in Massachusetts & this was the 1st year only a few (2 or 3) finches showed up. We had the special food, but just a few of the yellow finches & no purple ones.
Storing Bulk Non-Perishable Groceries?
I added big shelves in my laundry room too. It is a great way to shop & save $.
Will Mineral Powder Cover Blemishes?
I have good luck with the mineral powders & also the SheerCover Mineral Concealer. The concealer is applied with a brush but it is thicker then the powder, kind of like a cream. After applying it, I use the powder over the whole face. I think the mineral stuff...
Keeping Bees Away From a Pool?
Plant brightly colored flowers somewhere else in your yard & they should be attracted to them. Its illegal where I live to harm bees, & with all the hive problems (1/3 hives in US gone in last few years) I hope you can fix this problem easily. There has got...
Avoiding Lead In Your Home
Lead in Massachusetts is a real problem when selling or buying a home. You have to have a home inspected for lead & the cost of professional removal is very expensive. Other states that I have lived in have been laxer about lead paint, but I do think it is...
Personalized Glass Baking Pans
What a great idea! I bought a small glass etching knife & I will try this. Thanks.
Thinning Hair After Hysterectomy?
Dermatologist told me that frequently after surgery, or other stressful events that hair falls out more than is normal. He said there was nothing I could do.
Use Baby Powder for a Fresh Carpet
I think it sounds like a good idea, but talc is made from talc stones, & it is not recommended for anyone to breath in.
Lulu (Maine Coon)
I didnt know that they were all over the world. That is a very pretty cat. Thanks for sharing.
Homemade Reed Diffusers?
http://www.sfherb.com/ This is a wonderful store that sells almost everything you need to make reed diffusers (reeds, essential oils, carrier oils, etc.). They also sell ingredients for potpourrie & other things & even supply the recipes. I love their spices...
Getting Rid Of Ants?
I would pour boiling water on the red ant hill, be careful not to fall with the pot of boiling water. Also, I tried raw grits. I would pour about a cup or so on top of the hill. Supposedly they eat the grits & explode. I dont know if thats what happenes, but...
Uses for Clear Plastic Packaging?
How about using a large piece to cover cook books when you are using them, so dirt doesnt fall onto the pages?
Putting Greeting on Seed Paper Card?
The other ideas are better, but I was thinking you could also rubber stamp your card. I would love to get a seed paper card. What a great idea.
Printing Your Own Wedding Programs?
You can also buy whole kits at WalMart & other plases that have the nice heavy paper & envelopes & a disk of programs to make different invitations. They come out very nicely.
Device for Finding Keys?
I have the same problem. I finally bought a 50 cent alligator clip, put my keys on it, & attach it immediately when Ive unlocked my door to my purse strap. In stores, I also attach it right away to my purse straps.
Website For Reviewing Doctors?
http://www.ratemds.com/social/ Rate Doctors Website - might help you. You can hear what the patients have to say & see where they were educated.
Using Clorox Clean-Up Spray
I love it too. I like it most for spraying the shower curtain. I am going to try to make it myself by adding a small amount of bleach & a shot of Dawn to the empty Clorox container. Bleach is excellent as a toilet bowl too, plus it disinfects.
Bugs With Split In The End?
Boric acid is poisonous to children & pets. Be careful with it. I was wondering if you have silverfish? They like to be in wet areas. I dont know how to get rid of them.
Sugar Free Jelly
Thank you for this sugar free recipe. So many of the desserts, etal, sound yummy, but I am diabetic. I will try this one.
Uses For Green Grapes With Seeds?
Wash & freeze. They are wonderful to eat frozen & keep for a fair amount of time.
Sewing Christmas Gift Ideas For Beginner?
You can buy cheap-ish potholders (2 for $1.00 at the Dollar Store), fold in half & sew up one side & along the bottom. These make neat potholders for iron pans or other pans that have handles that get very hot. Cant beat 2 gifts for $1.00. Cloth napkins are...
Put Your Address on Your Cane
I just left my cane in the parking lot of a store, hooked to the carriage. I have my name on it, so I was able to call & ask if they had found a cane with my name on it. We do have to be careful of leaving our #s and addresses. Most people are good, but there...
