The Value of Working Part Time
Never, ever, feel as if what youre doing at your stay-at-home job isnt just as important or relevant as those who leave their home to work at another location. A good way to answer those who wonder about your activities or tasks is to print your resume (list...
Donating Greeting Cards?
As an environmental educator, I teach workshops on how to use greeting cards (full cards) to make all sorts of fun things (bookmarks, mini boxes, etc.) I would love to get your cards; please send to: Earth Inspired Crafts and Education, P O Box 1981, Allen...
Donating Greeting Cards?
Forgot to mention (!) that beautiful, dimensional, new cards can be made from pre-used cards; Ill send such a repurposed thank-you card anyone who sends me their stash of cards! Thanks again!
Donating Used Greeting Cards?
(b)Editors Note:(/b) We have received reports that packages are being returned so they must no longer be in operation. We would be delighted to receive your cards! I teach workshops to kids and adults about recycling, and we use greeting cards a lot! If youd...
Donating Sample Notecards?
Wish I would have seen your post before this! We would have loved to get your notecard samples! I teach workshops to kids and adults and we use notecards, greeting cards, etc. Thanks for trying to get your notecards into the hands of those who could put them...
16th Birthday Ideas?
Do you have similar facilities like we do in the States: bowling alleys, indoor swimming facilities, wall climbing adventures, miniature golf, etc.? In lieu of bringing gifts, each attendee could pay their own fee (if money is an issue for your folks). Ask...
Spouse is Verbally Abusive and Addicted to Painkillers?
Get online and find out what resources are available to you locally; also ask at the school youre attending. Your city might have programs, too. Youve tried the Y and your churches, but there are other organizations, too. You just have to keep searching until...
10th Birthday Ideas?
If your daughter wants to help with making pizza and lemonade, what are your objections? Making your own dishes would be a lot cheaper than buying ready-made. Also, go online to determine some fun games she and her friends could play, depending on what theme...
Donating Used Trophies?
Another idea is Special Olympics - they would love the trophies and can have special plates engraved for their athletes.
Gift for Boyfriend's Birthday?
How about an album with photos from the last 4 years; either photos of the 2 of you, or photos from the various teams/athletes hes coached along with leadership or coaching sayings to support all hes done for his teams.
Crafts for Young Children?
Match cards always work with young kiddos! Cut out the same size rectangles (from card stock or, if you want to be extra green, try cereal or other boxes). Cover pairs of the rectangles with the same pictures (from magazines or, better yet, pics of family members...
Cleaning Rate for a Friend?
I would search cleaning services to find out what they would charge and share that info with your friend. Then tell him what you will charge (maybe half?). Remember to wear gloves and a face mask in case you uncover surprises such as mold, insects, etc. Good...
Recycled Greeting Card Projects?
There are a bazillion ideas on the Internet; just put greeting card projects in the Search box, and youll be inundated with ideas! Ive been conducting repurposed workshops with kids and adults for several years now making tons of gifts, games, gift holders...
Gift Ideas for Best Friend's 17th Birthday?
How about filling an empty jar (decorated on the outside with his name and/or the number 17) with slips of paper describing something you can do together: bike ride with you buying ice cream afterwards or planning a movie marathon day complete with popcorn...
Anniversary Party Ideas?
What are the traditions in your culture when celebrating anniversaries? Can they be tailored to fit your budget? The best gifts are always those that are personal. Perhaps have invited guests write and share a story about how they know the honored couple; the...
Freeze Part Full Water Bottles
You MUST make sure your plastic bottles dont contain BPA chemicals in them; otherwise, the chemicals leach into the water when you refill the bottles. (I used to take half-filled bottles of frozen and fresh water to work every day until I found out that BPA...
Summer Activities for Teenager With a Disability?
Nature walks can be done in small time frames; research beforehand the kinds of trees and flowers in your area and whether or not they are native to the area. Download some pictures of trees, leaves, flowers, or other nature-related things for him to look for...
Cute Way to Say Yes to Prom Invitation?
Make a little booklet with these words on the front cover: 15 (or whatever number you want) Reasons to Go to the Prom With You Inside, write an answer on each page: I want to I want to I want to etc. OR, write a different answer on each page: I want to Im excited...
Ideas for Inexpensive 16th Birthday Party?
There are TONS of ideas on the internet (Pinterest is a GREAT resource), and most are very do-able and inexpensive. You just need to narrow down the list of themes you like and pick one (western, spa day, dance party, karaoke, makin crafts, backwards party...
Unique Name Instead of Gramma?
How about Gam, Gam/Gam, or Gammy? (I, too, didnt want to be called granny at such a young age, and thought about asking my grands to call me Grandmama, but that didnt work! Gammy is perfect!
Making Jello Worms?
I made this recipe - with the whipping cream - and it turned out great! You must use the flexible straws because they look so real when the Jello-O is squeezed out. It IS time-consuming to squeeze out all the straws, but SO worth the effort. My kiddos were...
New to Selling on eBay?
Thanks for asking this question - I have wanted to sell on eBay as well, but have absolutely no clue how to do so. It seems so intimidating, so Im trying to muster the courage to try!
Sweet 16 Birthday Ideas?
It would be sweet to focus on a Princess theme with your cousins; you could be the Kind Queen of all Princesses! If you look online, you can find pictures of princess-like decorations; you can make a banner (one shape for each letter in your name), make some...
Plastic Water Cups out of Soda Bottles
Please make sure the plastic bottles you are using dont have BPS in them. If they do, it would be better not to re-use them; recycle instead. (Look up the health risks of BPS; its scary that weve been injesting potentially harmful chemicals for years!)
Idea for Christmas Gift That Will Fit in an Envelope?
I make narrow pockets which each hold a candy cane; one pocket is decorated to look like Santas suit, another has a mustache with Santas belt below, another has a little critter holding candy cane pictures, another has a picture of a snowman with a tag that...
Christmas Gift Ideas for Daughter's Partner and His Children?
How about a family movie night box or bucket? Wrap a box with Christmas paper, put shredded-paper filler on the bottom, fill it with a couple of boxes of microwave popcorn, boxes of candy and/or candy bars, a gift card to rent some movies, a movie magazine...
Christmas Countdown Gift Ideas?
Little packages of Candy kisses (Tootsie Rolls, or other such candies) always work! OR, you can make a scavenger-type game for each day for the kids to follow together, and then have a little bundle of kisses at the end for them. Or you can research the picture...
Wedding Gift Money Amount?
Cash is always an appreciated gift! Since it doesnt sound as if you know the new couple, and are only once-in-awhile golfing buddies with the dad, a gift of $25 seems appropriate. The fact that you want to send a gift is really nice; a lot of people nowadays...
Inexpensive Holiday Game Ideas?
Heres one Ive done - send an e-mail message (or if you see folks in person, grab your paper and pencil!) and ask, What was the best Christmas gift you ever received? At your gathering, read the question, and then read the first answer. Guests try to guess who...
Organizing Craft Ideas in Hanging File Folders?
I file my craft patterns and ideas into categories by events or holidays; the primary files/categories are assigned colors. I then make secondary files (in matching colors) by specific ideas. For example: MAIN FILE: Birthdays. SECONDARY FILES: Theme ideas, Favors...
Selling Craft Items and Collectibles Locally?
Thanks so much, teegee for your suggestion. Since Im not Facebook savvy, Ill ask someone to help me look into this! Blessings...
Activities When Babysitting a Five Year Old?
Since the Olympics are coming up soon, why not look up a different country every day and study them at her level; talk about the games kids play, what they study, how different/alike they are with her, the kinds of clothes they wear, their language, etc. Then...
Birthday Party Favor Ideas?
Make items that can be consumed instead of items that have to be displayed or stored: items such as personalized candy bars, cookie pops with your sisters initials, etc. Another idea is to clean out some medicine bottles, fill with M&Ms or Skittles, then affix...
Planning a Frugal 4th of July Party
Great ideas, especially so you can have fun and enjoy your guests without worrying about extreme costs associated with getting together with loved ones!
Prizes for a Staff Party?
Sounds like a fun party! Why not get some mini cars, put them on pedestals (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Party City, etc.), along with ribbons hanging from the pedestals marked 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. You can also award gift cards in various increments. Good luck!
15th Birthday Ideas?
Find out what your city is known for to the rest of the world - what makes it unique. Then video tape your parents saying why they chose this place to live, what they were doing when it became apparent you were going to be born, how prepared they were to bring...
House Trained Dog Peeing and Pooping in the House?
Frugalsunnies sentiments seem right on the mark. You and your family may be dealing with all recent changes just fine, but your faithful companion might not be able to process them as easily, especially since she knows shes disappointing you and feels your...
House Cleaning Fee Advice?
You can certainly justify raising your rate to $175 - youve kept your price at the same level for 5 years while costs of supplies have gone up, you accommodate her last-minute requests, etc. If your client wants her house cleaned twice a month, you would still...
Recycling Shredded Paper?
In my city, the recycling facility asks that shredded paper be put in clear plastic bags so they can see that what is in the bags is just shredded paper. Those working the line, can remove the plastic bags and put them in a separate pile for recycling.
Making Dry Shampoo from Baby Powder and Baking Soda?
I would appreciate knowing the answer, too. I wonder if there is a way to look up answers to questions asked concerning other topics to see if theyve been addressed?
Bone Health Supplements?
Dr. Oz has had a couple of shows recently that were devoted to building strong bones. The supplement he mentioned is Algaecal (made from marine plants in South America). Dosage: 1 capsule 3 times per day. Hope this answers your question! Blessings.
Planning a Fundraiser Dance?
Announce 10-15 dance contests; each participant pays $1.00 to $2.00 to enter. Appoint random judges for each contest; winners get their names posted on a large board and get bragging rights! Bake cupcakes or mini-bite cakes with cheer or school phrases on piks...
McDonald's Caramel Frapuccino Recipe?
Thank you so much! I cant wait to try the recipes. Any thought about what kind of coffee to buy? Would instant be o.k., or do I have to buy a coffee pot and do the whole brewing thing? Thanks again. Blessings...
Inexpensive Recipe Ideas for a College Student?
Here are a couple of my favorites: 1) Open a can of tuna, drain it, add a few dollops of Greek yogurt, a teaspoon of mayonnaise, and a Tablespoon of relish; mix together and spread on bread or eat with crackers. 2) Heat on medium an electric or gas stove; spritz...
Saying Yes to a Prom Invitation?
How about printing off hundreds of yeses, then punching them out in heart and lip shapes; you can make a trail with them that he frequents - bet hell know theyre from you!
Removing Hanger Shoulder Bumps on Sweater?
Thanks for your response, redhatterb. I had my sweaters on highly-padded hangers, thinking in advance that those would be better than other hangers. I have a feeling that the rayon/nylon mix causes the sweaters to have these permanent-like bumps. Ill try your...
Use Clothespins To Protect Christmas Ornaments
Great idea. This should certainly help any heavy ornaments from falling and breaking. Thanks for sharing!
Name Ideas for a Neighborhood Fundraising Group?
How about: From Our Hearts to Theirs (then name all the charities who will benefit from your efforts). Is having your names connected to the title really something you want to do? If it is, the title could be: From Heathers Hearts to Theirs.
Taking Photos of Items to Sell on Craigslist?
Thanks so much for your responses; appreciate your taking the time to do so! Blessings...
Donating Greeting Cards?
(b)Editors Note:(/b) This organization appears to be no longer in operation. Cards sent to this address have been returned to the sender. I am an environmental educator and would love to have your cards for the workshops I teach to kids, from preschool to high...
Removing the Lettering on Sweat Pants?
I had the same problem. I simply took a permanent black marker and colored over the lettering. If you look real close, you can still see a shadow of the lettering, but even after laundering numerous times, the sweat pants still look great!
Selling Nature Crafts Online?
Etsy.com would be good bet - its supported by and for crafters and artisans.
Grandchildren Ungrateful for Gifts?
There are so many people hurting - financially and emotionally - who would be forever grateful to have someone generous like you in their family. How unfortunate that your grands are so spoiled and ungrateful, but thats their choice, and its your choice not...
Get Kids to Eat Magic Oatmeal
Awesome idea! Good for you to come up with a creative way to get kids to eat more healthy foods for breakfast!
Slow Cooker As Air Freshener
Thanks for a great idea - I use my crock pot often, so yummy food scents drift thru my house a lot, but now I can add some holiday scents, too!
White Elephant Christmas Gift Ideas?
Im thinking a big piece of cheese wrapped real well (Green Bays specialty!), or make a hat in a cheese-slice style. Google Green Bays website to get some ideas. OR, you can make all sorts of things with bear motiffs: ornament covered with bear pictures, a letter...
Live-in Grandmother No Longer Welcome in Daughter's Home?
Wouldnt you like to know, for sure, what your daughters plans are (and your son-in-laws)? Then you need to ask for a time to sit down and have a heart-to-heart talk. Let them know youre uncomfortable with the way things have been going on, and youre not sure...
Fixing Grainy Fudge?
What if you crumbled the fudge, added some softened cream cheese, and then formed the mixture into balls? You could then dip them into melted chocolate and roll in candy sprinkles. Worth a try, if you dont want to discard the whole batch! Good luck.
Altoid Tin Gift Card Boxes
Love your designs. Thanks so much for sharing. Im a Stampin Up customer, but am not in the same league as you! Do you have a website featuring your other ideas? I would love to see others. Thanks again!
Removing White Marks from Wood Table?
I had/have this problem on light-colored wood. Some guests left their sweating drink glasses on the end table and terrible marks were left. Ive tried every hint offered on ThriftyFun, but nothing has worked so far. I may just have to remove the finish from...
Tex (St. Bernard/Pit Bull Mix)
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. I hope the love you give Tex halps to make up for the loss he also feels. Blessings....
Dividing Time Among Friends?
Since your friend felt awkward or uncomfortable, apologize, tell her your only intention was to spend quality time with every guest, then ask her how she would have preferred you do so. Perhaps next time you could assign your friend a special job like filling...
Making Extra Cash?
If you get into any type of party plan, youll have to invest $100 or more to get started. If youre able to sew alterations, knit, crochet, or do any other handiwork, you can sell your items online (etsy.com). If youre a good cook, baker, seamstress, or you...
Binder Clip For Small Artwork
You can also put a pop-can tab on the back with a thumb-tack; just bend the tab a little forward and hang it up! (Just in case you need the binder clip for another purpose - smile!)
Planning a Large Family Birthday Party for a Two Year Old?
How about a bowling party? Several bowling establishments have party plans so everyone can bowl (you can plan some fun prizes for the most unusual delivery, most gutter balls, most splits, etc.) After a game or two, the party room allows time for opening gifts...
Celebrating a Child's Birthday When You Have No Money?
Here are some ideas that I hope will help: - Arrange twos of things you have around your house, and ask the birthday child to try to find them all (two pillows, two books, two toys, etc). - Make a Number Two lunch or dinner (two pieces of apples, two crackers...
Scruffy (Border Collie/Cocker Spaniel)
What a precious story about a special dogs love for his special master; thanks for sharing such a heart-warming story!
Prepare a Disaster Bin For Emergencies
What great information - a lot of food for thought! Thanks very much for sharing. Hope you have a blessed day.
Farewell Party for Daughter Joining the Army?
I would forego the restaurant and have a pot-luck party at your home or the home of another family member or close friend. That way, its more informal and everyone can stay as long as theyd like. There are many military-type scrapbook papers and stickers out...
Display Photos of Your Parents When They Were Younger
I agree - a very thoughtful idea! Thanks so much for sharing!
Crafts Using Small Plastic Cat Food Containers?
1. MAGNET: You can cover the outside with a ribbon the same size as the container, put a photo of a family member, pet, or friend inside it (use a circle punch or circle pattern), then put a sturdy magnet on the back. Use it for a refrigerator magnet. 2. WALL...
Photo: In Time of Need (Haiti)
Please send warm congrats and thanks to your sis for her help during that awful time of devastation. She will be blessed for caring.
My Elvis Wedding (Graceland Wedding...
Youve created quite fabulous memories for years and years to come! God bless you and your honey forever n ever!
Add Water To Votive Candle Holders
Thanks for the great tip - Im definitely going to try it because I love to burn candles, too.
Problem Thinning Wilton Candy Melts?
I just got a recipe for chocolate-covered cake pops, and it called for 2 Tablsp. of shortening to be melted with the candy melts for thinning. (Ive made the pops without the shortening, and the mixture was way too thick to work properly; Ill try it with the...
Tasty Rum Sauce
While not a very good baker (something I dont do often!), I am tempted to try this recipe. It sure sounds wonderful! Ill try to find a recipe for a rum roll, or maybe Ill try the sauce on pound cake. Either way, thank you very much for sharing it as well as...
Inexpensive Gifts From The Heart
Great ideas, especially because theyre from your heart! Thanks for sharing.
Housebreaking an Older Dog?
I got a one-year-old Weimer from a shelter; she was not treated very well at her previous home and was really quite skittish and not house-broken. With just a week or two (and not constant!), we were able to train her with lots of love and attention. She followed...
Photo: Innovative Waste Competition
What an awesome idea! I love that the focus is on making something from an item normally thrown away or recycled!
Ideas for a Construction Themed Party?
You can either punch out circles, squares, ovals from grey/white paper, then crush them to look like gravel, or purchase some small gravel (for aquariums) to sprinkle around the hats youre putting together. Either way, it shouldnt be too expensive!
Presenting a Gift of Money?
Purchase an appropriately-themed helium balloon, attach the $ bill with tape onto the string of the balloon, put it in a box with a card, then either mail the box or wrap it and give it to the recipient in person. Once the balloon pops out of the box, itll...
Presenting a Gift of Money?
Forgot to mention that there are several ways to fold money (search the Internet) that would be fun to do and then put in your card. Good luck!
Determining the Value of a Craft Materials Donated to Charity?
Guesstimate the weight of the yarn (by types), the number of knitting needles, latch hooks, and crochet hooks (by size), then do a search on the Internet for comparable values of these items. Those figures will give you a good idea about the value of your donations...
Storing Straws In A Cookie Tin
But why use plastic straws at all? Plastics have harmful toxins in them, so putting them into your mouth directly, just like drinking from plastic water bottles, is something to be avoided. Also, because they are so lightweight, they may end up the in streets...
Saving Money on Household Expenses?
Welcome to Thrifty Fun - youll find gobs and gobs of great hints and ideas! You can also access, when you have some extra time!, past posts that have relevant information. When it comes time for gift giving, be sure to look at some fabulous and frugal hand...
Hutch (Husky/Wolf Mix)
What you are doing for this special dog is incredible and I agree that hes so lucky to have someone like you who cares for him. Your story brought tears to my eyes as I read how you beautifully and patiently brought him to state of being socialized, obedient...
Recycling Plastic Soda Bottle Caps?
If you go to Earth911.com and search for where you can recycle the lids, youll find an answer! (Im an environmental educator, and applaud your willingness to recycle - when you find out what litter does to our land and habitat, it just breaks your heart, so...
Advice for Dealing With a Verbally Abusive Spouse?
You do not have the knowledge about why your husband is the way he is, nor will you be able to change him - ever. Only he can do that. You are only able to change yourself and your circumstances. Go to your local library and read a couple of books about abusive...
