French Door Refrigerators?
I love having the freezer on the bottom which isnt used as often as the refrigerator. The refrigerator is so accessable being higher and not having to bend or squat to get things in or out. I have had both single and french door models that have the freezer...
Bring Your Own Vase to the Florist
Very good idea, usually the vases arent to exciting or they are very expensive. I hate to throw things out so I have way to many florist vases in the closet.
Low GI Diet?
Hi Sandy, As you probably know GI refers to how quickly after you eat a food your insulin response happens. As a general rule the less refined a food is the lower the GI Also things like fat, fiber, acid in the dish slow the insulin response. I don;t think...
What Is This Plant? (Red Sedum)
This is a perrennial sedum. It will become fuller over the years and is trouble free and beautiful.
What Breed Is My Dog?
I believe your dog is from the bulldog ancestry. I had one (pitbull) for 14 years and she was the most affectionate and funny dog Ive ever had. She lived in a multipet family, cats, birds dogs etc. and we never had any issues. Just love and train her.
Piano Smells Like Cigarette Smoke?
We inherited some wood furniture from my mother in law who was a heavy smoker. I had to clean the wood numerous times. The cleaning cloths were a dark brown. At first I thought I had taken off the finish but it turned out to be the nicotine coming off. As you...
Making Compost With Pet Waste?
I wouldnt put pet waste in a compost pile because it may not heat up enough to destroy harmful organisms. There is a composting system that is put in the ground and a starter is added to breakdown the waste. You could also bury it in different parts of your...
Wash Cloth for Phone Space Around Toddlers
Moms do need a time and space break every now and then. I think this is a super idea, which I will pass on the my daughter and daughter in law. Every mom knows almost instinctively if their child is in real need. Mostly its all about them, when mom tries to...
Save Money By Baking Your Own Bread
I have had excellent results with the sourdough starter from King Arthur Flour online. Ive had it going for several years now and the King Arthur website has good recipes, especially the tangy sourdough recipe.
Fruity Carrot Muffins
I am looking forward to making these as they looking good and healthy. I would love to more recipes of this nature. Low fat, low sodium and not to sweet. Thanks Merlene
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette
Yeah, a recipe with natural and healthy ingredients. I cant wait to try it. All those healthy omega 3s from the walnuts!!! Thanks
Ask Butcher To Make Sale Roasts Into Ground Beef
Another way to get good quality and less expensive ground meat it to get an electric meat grinder and make your own. Less fat and less money. You can also make ground pork,chicken and even sausage. I got my grinder at walmart during the after Christmas clearance...
Breeding a Shih Tzu?
I have to agree with the with the previous contributors. Dogs are being put to death because there are not enough homes. Sure you could find homes for your puppies, but that means less opportunity for dogs already needing homes. If youre not convinced watch...
Changing My Family's Eating Habits?
We changed our diet about 3 years ago. there is no magic, but what is apparent now is that the old style food tastes gross. Lots of fresh / dried fruit for snacks and treats. We still have an occasional burger. I grind my own very lean hamburger. Turkey burgers...
Avocado and Orange Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing
Hi Deeli, Thanks so much for the delicious and healthy recipe. We need more like this.
Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry
This sounds like a yummy and healthy dish. Makes me look forward to peas ing the garden.
Say "No" to Pizza Delivery
We feel like we have the best of both worlds. We buy the the pizza dough from the pizza place for $2.00. (that idea was on a Rachel Ray show) Then we add our own fresh and healthy low fat trimmings. Bake it on a pizza stone and it tastes as good( actually better...
Eating a Low-Salt Diet?
Three years ago we began a low sodium diet due to a heart attack. My husband had also added salt to everything even before he tasted it. I think within the first year we had adjusted to it. Now if we go somewhere and eat so called regular food it tastes awful...
Dog Going Potty in the House?
Your dog has his signals crossed. He thinks the house is the place to go. It is reinforced each time he does it. Do not let him have any access to the inside of the house until after bowel movement. This means crate training. Use lots of praise when he finally...
Recycling Styrofoam Packing?
Freecycle is an online site that matches up people who have things that would otherwise be thrown away twith people who can use them. When I moved I got many moving boxes, paper, styrofoam etc. this way. Merlene
Advice for Owning Four Dogs?
Hi, I have had multiple dogs, now 4, for many years. I have never had a problem with behavior. In fact we often got puppies or younger new dogs and they learned their behavior from the older dogs. We had a old arthritic Samoyed that often laid down to eat or...
What Breed is My Dog?
Is your dogs temperment good. Is she well trained and taken care of appropriately. If so it doesnt matter what the breed name is. My teenage son bought home a dog and told me it was a lab-boxer mix. After a month I found out it was a pitbull. I freaked out...
What Breed is My Dog?
He is one of millions of all-american dogs. Im so glad his luck changed when he found you. I know he will show his gratitude and make you very happy.
Using a Dish Cloth to Clean?
If you know youve cleaned something germy like meat juice , you could give it a quick rinse in bleach or wet it really well and microwave it for two minutes. I do this with sponges.
What Breed is My Dog?
Looks very similar to my sons dog which is an American Bull Dog. The same type of dog in the Disney Movie Incredible Journey with Michael Foxs voice. They are great dogs but need training because they have a desire to be the leader.
Gifts for Teachers?
As a retired special education teacher, the gifts I remember the most and still have are notes and drawings made by made students thanking me or telling what they enjoyed. They are precious misspellings and all.
Freezing Prepared Foods?
I have used the inexpensive vacuum sealer made by Reynolds wrap. I got it at Walmart. It made a tremendous difference in quality of frozen food.
Puppy is Acting Naughty?
You definitely dont need to give the dog away. He is like a child that needs to taught what behavior is expected. Start with basic obedience which should make him see you as the leader or boss. After he understands basic obedience you can tweek it to meet his...
Store Sour Cream Upside Down
Ive used mine long after the expiration date and have not stored it upside down. Im curious why upside down?
Bees Drilling Into a Wooden Porch?
They are carpenter bees. They return year after year to the same place and their numbers grow. If you google carpenter bee there are several sites that tell how to get rid of them.
Paint to Coordinate with Navy Couch and Grey Carpet?
A bright sunny yellow or golden color would warm up a the coolness of blue and gray.
Transplanting Vegetable Seedlings?
I would transplant them now as long as it is not too hot. Can you provide some kind of sun protection if it is so they wont wither and die until the roots get established?
Remedies for Restless Leg Syndrome?
If you google (Dr. Gott restless leg syndrome) an article comes up that suggests hawthorne berry extract to help stop the sypmtoms. Good luck.
Inexpensive Do-it-Yourself Pool Patios?
We put in a pool 14 years ago. We had a 3ft cement decking put around the whole pool once the ground had settled over the first winter. Then we put in a patio along one side of the pool with pavers. There have been no problems and we havent had to do a thing...
Dog Saliva Stains on a Couch?
The dollar tree sells a product called totally awesome. It has removed all kinds of dog related stains from my furniture and rugs.
Gracie (Domestic Shorthair)
She looks so contented. She is a fortunate girl that you found her and are providing her with shelter and love. Im sure she gives the love back.
Solar Lights to Help Older Dogs See
Thank you for the excellent idea and to Cricketnc for the shopping suggestion. I have a 14 year old yellow lab who is really struggling with nighttime potty time. Im trying this right away.
Starting a School Gardening Project?
Its nice to share the bounty with natures critters. Growing sunflowers is quite impressive and the seeds can be toasted or shared with the animals.
Inexpensive Patio Decorating Ideas?
Im not sure where you live but in my area freecycle.org has many people wanting to give away outdoor tables, planters, chairs etc. check it out.
Craft: Entryway Bench
This is very cheery. I have some dining room chairs that I was thinking of painting to make a Mexican Cantina for the screened porch. This has helped me visualize how they may look. Merlene from MA
Kids Removing Their Own Diapers?
I saw a mother on TV who put the child in a sleeper with a zipper and reservsed it so the zipper was in the back. I agree that potty training is in the near future.
Painting Walls to Coordinate with Brown Carpet?
A very pretty combination that is in stores now is a robin egg blue and brown. There are a lot of fabrics and accessories with this brown and almost an aqua blue color scheme.
Attach Your Cell Phone to Your Keys
Since I saw this helpful hint somewhere I have NEVER misplaced my keys, which is a minor miracle. Buy a key holder that comes with a long stretchy coil and a clip on the end. the keys are on the key holder part and then clip the other end to your purse. It...
Is My Puppy a Loner?
He is probably tired. Puppies, like babies, need more sleep than adults. Congratulations on such a cutie.
Reusing Nestle Nesquick Containers?
If all else fails put them on freecycle.org, maybe a school teacher or day care would have a craft project for them. I saw someone on freecycle requesting empty oatmeal containers for a project, so you never know.
Reusing Plastic Water Bottles
This is a great idea. I also use mine to put my home brewed non sweetened ice tea in and then freeze. It stays nice and cold if Im in the car on for long time on a hot day. Also if you frequent Wal-mart they have a plastic bottle recycling container near where...
Raising Golden Retrievers?
Please , please do not add to the problem of there being more dogs than people who can care for them. Look at the breed rescue sights online. so many wonderful dogs are looking for homes. Some are being euthanized before the breed rescues can get them into...
Using Composite Wood Decking?
We replaced our wooden deck that had become splintery and overall unattractive one year ago. We used home depots version of trek manmade wood. It is so nice not to worry about restaining it. We used this material based on a friend who had a back porch made...
Laminate Hardwood Floor Streaking?
Did you use distilled water with the vinegar. The directions that I found said 4 oz vinegar to 32 oz distilled water. It works when nothing else did for me. Good Luck
Storing Table Linens in Limited Space?
This may sound unusual but what about laying them between the boxspring and the mattress. Dont fold them they would lay more like a sheet.
Freezing Vegetable Soup?
I always make a big pot of vegetable beef soup for my husband and I and then freeze it in meal size containers. Its great.
Dog Keeps Stealing My Phone?
Has your dog just gone through a heat cycle? You didnt say if she was spayed. Sometimes dogs that have gone through heat but are not pregnant have a false pregnancy. Their behaviors mimic what would have happened if they had babies.
Rocky (Boxer)
He is fantastic. I adopted a white boxer. They are the most loving and funny dogs. I know how attached you are. I cant imagine not having my Mugsy. I am planning to rescue another boxer when we get settled in NC.
Alternatives to Sugar in Recipes?
If you can find it, and it is becoming more available, try agave syrup. It is natural and doesnt affect blood sugar like honey or maple syrup. I get it a Trader Joes. It is now in our supermarket too.
Getting Enough Fluids in Diet?
There was a tip earlier about freezing plastic bottles with tea, juice, or water. Ive done this as well. It lasts a long time. If it is really hot your husband probably needs more liquid than he can get in fruit etc. Send him with 2 or 3 frozen bottles of his...
Getting Help With Vet Bills?
This may sound obvious, and maybe youve done it, but in FL vets sometimes have money earmarked for people who need assistance. With the economic situation people are having to give up their pets because of lack of money when the get sick. An article in the...
Keeping Water in Birdbath?
It is good to refill the bird bath with clean water often. It heats up in hot weather and birds soil it as well. The birds always seem to know when ours has fresh clean water. They wait in line for a dip. :-).
Does Dog Urine Stain Hardwood?
I agree the all the others, crate training is the way to go. It is twice as difficult to unlearn bad habits regarding housebreaking. Hardwood, carpet etc is never the same after an accident. Crate training makes a dog feel secure as well. the cost of a crate...
Persia the Dog
You can see the love and thanks in her eyes. You are both fortunate to have each other.
Dog Pees on Furniture?
I guess my first action would be not to let the dog have access to the furniture when I am not looking. Use a crate if you are in another room, taking a shower etc. There are also devices (scat Mat, used by the dog whisperer) and a collar with a movable sensor...
Removing Sick Smell from Carpet?
Have you tried some kind of enzyme cleaning product? There is probably some decaying organic matter causing the smell. This kind of product is also used for pet accidents.
Fry Biscuits in Chicken Grease
Thank you Cyinda for speaking up for healthy eating. It is so easy to be tempted that we need to support each other with good food choices.
Keeping Grass from Growing in Mulch?
You may need to make the mulch deeper and/or use some herbicide on the grass.
Dog Shampoo Question?
I have used Hartz oatmeal shampoo for many years and have not had any problems. It is not a flea shampoo.
Using Banana Peels?
They are rich in potassium so they are good for plants. If you have a banana plant they really like to be mulched with banana peels.
Make Your Own Syrup?
I read somewhere to add a small amount (teaspoon) of vinegar to prevent crystallization.
Recipes for a Diabetic Person?
If you join Yahoo groups there is a diabetic recipe group. They send recipes almost daily. notify-dg-Healthy_Recipes_For_Diabetic_Friends@yahoogroups.com,
Eating Tomatoes From Plant With Blight?
From what Ive read plants with the blight should be destroyed immediately. This is to keep from spreading it to your own soil and other gardens.
Frugal and Safe Cell Phone Charging
Just thought I would pass on some info that was new to me. I was talking to the repair guy (the genius) at the Apple store in regards to charging my Ipod in my car. He said that charging any electronics in the car,including cell phones, greatly shortens the...
Use Recycled Plastic Bag as a "Glove"
I think they should show some of these ideas in a TV commercial. Good thinking everyone.
Ice Cubes to Limit Dog's Evening Water
My dog Muggsy loves to eat ice cubes, so Im not sure this would help. If fact, every time I open the freezer he stops what hes doing and comes running.
Attracting Chipmunks into Yard?
We have 2 stone retaining wall around our driveway and the chipmunks love to run in and out of the holes. Maybe there is not a hiding place from the natural predators ( fox and bobcat) in your yard.
Naya (Chocolate Lab)
Im a sucker for a touching dog story and this is definitely one. You are a wonderful family and I hope everything continues to go well for you.
Controlling Odor from Fresh Fish in Refrigerator?
Maybe she could use some sort of plastic or glass container with an airtight cover.
Mississippi Mojo (Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog)
I love his name and he sounds like quite a character. I love how each dog is such an individual personality. Youre lucky to have such a handsome and funny dog.
Scenery: Fort Pierce, FL
I didnt know there was a manatee center in fort pierce. Ill check that out when I go there again. Beautiful picture. Last winter I was on a boat on the intercoastal and saw wild dolphins. It was quite a thrill.
Bing (Budgie)
What a wonderful story. I love how pets bring out the best in us, and teach us valuable lessons.
Use Soaker Hoses In Conjunction With PVC
I would also like to try this next gardening season. It has rained so much this year that I havent had to water outdoors at all .
Quick Sides for Hot Weather
This brings back memories. My mother made us a pear salad with some cream cheese in the hole and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Ear Cropping and Tail Docking?
Before you breed your dog go on one of the Yahoo Dog Rescue sites and read the pleas to save wonderful young dogs that are being gassed in huge numbers. Maybe you could help rescue or foster some of THESE dogs. There are all breeds and mixed breeds.
Wide Straw Cherry Pitter
I cant wait to try this. The cherry crop this year is delicious and I would like to freeze some.
Start School Schedule Before School Starts
Your mom sounds like a peach. Im sure your teachers appreciated the support from home.
Eyeglass Cozy Case
Extremely clever. Im going to share this with friends, as we all have trouble with our glasses.
Cross Breeding Dogs?
Here is a very small sample of what goes on all over the country, there are hundreds no probably thousands of dogs euthanized every day.
Quick Flaky Pastry
This sounds good and easy. Does anyone know the conversion into measurements (cups). I dont have a food scale.
Monarch Butterfly
What a beautiful photo, so much so that it could be framed and hung as a work of art.
Overwintering Pentas
Ive never heard of pentas. I do try to attract hummingbirds so I will definitely google this. Thanks for the info.
Squash Vine Borers?
Check out gardens alive website. you may be able to use beneficial nematodes. They eat the larvae of many insects. We got rid of a lot of pests by using them.
Bella (Husky/German Shepherd)
Bella is beautiful and so are you for saving her. Im sure youll both share a wonderful bond. best wishes for the future.
Save Plastic Lids for Toddler Toys
I believe and this proves it, you dont need to spend a lot of money on electronic and hi tech toys for kids to have fun and develop skills. Way to go KNITTER 926
Get Tips From Locals Through Freecycle
We are going to be moving soon. Ive been using freecycle to clean out the house. I never thought to use it in our new location for info about what to do and where to go etc. Thanks so much for the idea.
Painted Pots
You must be a natural born artist. I know mine would never look like that, but it would be fun to try. ;)
Bonanza in Town Compost Pile
Dont be embarrassed, you are my hero. My husband usually goes to the dump, so I didnt know there were such riches. Dont let other people concern you, its their problem if they arent as smart as you. :).
Frugal Tomato Sauce
To follow up on the spaghetti sauce, I am one of those cooks who eyeball amounts. My husband and I like things pretty spicy. I add garlic and Italian Seasoning herbs to taste. Probably 2 to 3 Tbsp. If I have fresh basil Ill add that too. As for storage, it...
Garden: Naked Lady Lilies
Ive never seen such beautiful lilies. My lilies all died a few years ago from the obnoxious lilly beetle. Maybe Ill try these.
Hints For Harvesting Common Garden...
Your garden looks magnificent. Enjoy all that healthy food, Yum.
Company Review: Publix Grocery
Shame on Publix, thats wasteful and unfriendly for the environment. Not to mention their customers. Makes for higher prices, Im sure.
Keeping Turkeys Off Your Vehicle?
Show them a LARGE roasting pan. :) Sorry Ive been reading to many webby jokes. turkeys are pretty assertive I think the only thing that would affect them is some kind of predator. Do you have a big dog? I guess the covering is the best plan.
Tomato Stem is Bumpy?
I think the bumps you are talking about is where the plant makes new roots. If you where to lay the stem on the ground it would root itself from those bumps. Im not sure about the tiny holes as I cant seem them. I dont see any reason who couldnt eat the fruit...
Growing Vegetables in Zone 7?
One thing you will learn as a gardener no two years are ever the same. I have not had a very productive year in Mass. I dont know if your summer was as rainy and cloudy as ours. One thing is some plants require successive plantings as the first crop fades the...
Use Soup Bases Instead of Bouillon
Amen, to Better than Bouillon. I have a mini collection of many flavors. The clam makes excellent clam chowder. All of them are wonderful and of course I try to get several when they go on sale.
Ben, Henry and Tammy Faye (Turkeys)
We found a baby white turkey in the parking lot of a shopping center where we worked. My husband brought it home and it turned out to be one of the most awesome pets weve had. And weve had all kinds. Henrietta would follow my huband around the yard and inspect...
Fabric Christmas Trees?
I just bought a simplicity pattern for the first tree and it was half price too at Hancock Fabrics :)
Vinyl Record Stores Near Charlotte North Carolina?
In Winston-Salem, NC there is a record exchange store that sell or trades vinyl records.
Raising a Deaf Dog?
I was in the process of adopting a deaf dog, but it didnt work out with other animal members in the family. I did some research to learn how to communicate with hand signals. One of the things I learned was there is a collar that vibrates to get the dog to...
