Weaning Off of Blood Pressure Meds?
It is possible, Suzy. Ive not done it, but at my insistance a good friend has. The side-effects of this, like most prescribed medications, can be onerous. If your doctor is a drug pusher, you might want to find another, but it wouldnt be a bad idea to get your...
Letting Down a Hem on a Skirt?
The first question I want to ask, Fifi, is how strict are they (at the school) about uniforms? Id like to suggest buying lace 2 - 3 wide, the same colour as the faded portion of the skirt, to sew onto the darker part. Would the school allow that? Another option...
Adding a Basement Under an Existing House?
It can be done, Raine. Check Google images or perhaps even youtube for an idea of what youre up against. The contractors will have to lift your house with numerous hydrolic jacks, and lift it high enough they can work underneath. Depending where you live, the...
50th Birthday Suggestions?
Why not plan an entire day for just the two of you (unless you have sibs who want to join)? Planning is half the fun, so why not you and he talk about all the options? Could be you making breakfast, could be a short (or long) road trip to someplace hes always...
Asking Dad's Permission to Wear a Crop Top?
Congratulations to you on achieving a fitness goal! Showing it off, however, is about more than simply being proud. People who look at you wont necessarily understand you worked hard to get where you are. Theyll see a pretty girl displaying her midriff. You...
Cleaning Rate for Vacant Houses and Apartments?
Cleaning rates vary throughout the country, CJNKD. Why not call others in your area and ask if they might provide you information about their fees? (Up here in Canada $35 / hour is pretty much the going rate.)
Tracking Mail Sent to the Wrong Address?
Call the post office and ask about the usual length of time for delivering. Add a week to that estimate. If your cheque has not arrived, call the company who issued the cheque and ask them to send a replacement (cancelling the original and sending the second...
Ideas for 14th Birthday Party?
If youre going to sleep in tents, why not think about activities similar to camping? Swimming or hiking, badminton, ask your parents about a small fire pit and roast hot dogs and marshmellows?
Top Thread Keeps Breaking on Sewing Machine?
Im sorry if this response seems rude, but have you double and triple-checked its threaded correctly? (I missed a step on mine not so very long ago and ended up with the same problem. Very frustrating.) Undo it all and start fresh, using a good quality thread...
Asking Mom to Shave and Buy a Bra?
And if your mother doesnt come through (it happens), ask your best friends mom? Or an aunt?
Neighborhood Cats Peeing on Door?
As a householder who has watched neighbourhood cats roaming about, digging in others (not owners) flower beds and killing birds, Harasarah, I am considerably less forgiving than you are. If you want the behaviour to change, call the local pound and report the...
What Is This House Plant?
Hard to tell for sure, Jo Dee, but it could be one of the many types of kalanchoe.
Dyeing Hair After Bleaching?
Have a wig standing by, Gisselle. A friend of mine bleached her hair and then dyed it (same day) and absolutely trashed her hair: it ended up brittle and she couldnt even run a comb through it without breakage. Mind you, shes a redhead (originally) and I understand...
Finding Financial Assistance for Roof Repairs?
While I dont know how Habitat for Humanities works, might it be worthwhile asking them to help you with your place in exchange for hours you volunteer?
Covering Ugly Rental Countertops?
Have you considered talking to the landlord and negotiating with him / them to install a decent countertop? If you do the legwork and find out the cost, including installation, you could offer to pay, for example, an extra $5 / month (thus paying for the countertop...
Caring for Baby Ducks?
Cant hurt to try, right? Do you have a local zoo or someone with expertise in the area you can call to get professional advice?
14th Birthday Ideas?
Planning ahead is really smart, Charlie. Why dont you make a list of everything you think youll need? The hall itself, music (if you want your guests to be entertained; either a live band or DJ), food, beverages, decorations, other entertainment? Youll want...
Fee for Light House Cleaning?
Why not think about your budget and decide what you can afford then ask the young lady what she thinks would be fair? Surely the two of you could negotiate and come to an agreement? You might also want to make a few calls to cleaning companies in your area...
Menu Ideas for Ladies' Luncheon?
How about a vegetable salad (add salmon or tuna if you like) with a light dressing, a few fresh biscuits or buns, perhaps a cheese plate with different kinds of crackers (including rice crackers for the gluten intolerant) and an array of fresh fruit. Tea (hot...
13 Birthday Party Ideas?
How terrific of you to plan something fun for your sister! If you have the resources to rent a building, I hope you can afford to hire either live musicians or a good DJ with sound system for a dance party. Invite family and neighbours and friends? If you have...
Single Senior on a Limited Budget
Growing up, and this would still be applicable, we used to get together, 4 - 6 women (some with families, some not) and share the expense as well as the work in making big batches of cabbage rolls. Of course a deep freeze is pretty much necessary. We also used...
Setting a House Cleaning Rate?
Well, Just You, up here in Canada, we consider ourselves lucky to find someone for $35 / hour. Leah, my cleaning lady, brings her own cleaning supplies but uses my vacuum (saves her hauling hers around). I live alone, have 2 bathrooms, three bedrooms, about...
Apple Pie Vinegar Drink
Thanks for this, Attosa! My father-in-law drank his with hot water and honey but it still smelled pretty bad. On the upside, he never had a gastrointestinal problems of any kind: his digestion was perfect and he attributed the fact to the vinegar. My variation...
Painting a Bedroom Red?
Heres an interesting article, Glynnis: http://designlike.com/the-psychology-of-color-for-interior-design/. At first I though, Red? Isnt that an angry colour? How could you sleep? And then I realized people have been researching colour and the affects on us...
What Is This Houseplant?
I think its an arrowhead plant, Anna. Youll see pictures of all kinds on Google Images. Mine is thriving on a shelf in my kitchen, beside the window but out of direct sunlight. I water it twice a week with about a third cup of water each time. Sorry to say...
Cheap 14th Birthday Ideas?
Well, Chatty, the best thing about being with friends is just being with them, right? Hanging out, talking? What are things you could all do that dont cost any money? Planning can be half the fun. I suggest you get together with them after school or during...
Selling a House on Craig's List?
Realtors really do earn their money, you know. Their knowledge of legal and other issues helps to protect you. If youre trying to avoid that expense, at the very least please talk to lawyer? (For the most part I dont have much use for them, but in some cases...
Toilet Paper Tubes as Seed Starters
Isnt it great to find a use for something which usually gets thrown away, Mary Ray? I love this idea. Instead of tucking in the bottom, however, I moisten the soil slightly and pack it in the tube fairly tightly. I set the tubes in shallow plastic containers...
Taking Turmeric as a Supplement?
Personally, Mamaluce, Id talk to a Chinese Medical Doctor or certified herbologist. Western medical practioners look down their noses at anything they havent prescribed. That said, theyre both very probably biased. I take ~1 tablespoon @ week mixed with vegetable...
Getting Rid of Pesky Pigeons?
Many humane options are available, Lisa. Your city hall may have some advice on the matter. You can of course contact an extermintor. You can purchase cages to trap them then transport them elsewhere before releasing and hope they dont come back. My personal...
Dyeing Your Hair at Home?
Ive had great success with LOreal Excellence Creme, Emmi. Its not the cheapest product on the shelf, but Ive been using it for a while now and am pretty happy with it: I love the applicator which is like a comb and helps get the colour right to the roots, the...
Creating and Selling Plywood Yard Art?
Times are tough for all of us, Tearick, but I absolutely understand wanting to supplement income. My first reaction isnt very helpful, Im afraid. If I (for instance) am limiting my spending to essentials, why would I want to buy more Christmas decor? Ill make...
Teenage Bedroom Decorating Ideas?
Fish are a great idea! But before you invest in the tank and supplies, why not stop by a local store and ask questions about how to take care of them? The tanks require serious cleaning on a regular basis, even small ones. As to the remainder of your decor...
Free Wood Pallets?
So many places its almost mind-boggling. Good place to start is just going for a drive behind big-box stores like Home Depot. Wherever you see big trucks making deliveries, whether its hardware or office supplies or even gardening materials, theyre sure to...
What Are These Houseplants?
I think your fern is actually called a plumosa or air fern. Check google images for it as well as asparagus fern?
Looking for a Needlepoint Pattern?
My Dad does needle point, Jane, and once told me about a software which can take anything, including a photograph, and turn it into a pattern. If you have time to look online ....
Italian Chicken Bake
This looks great, Stephanie. Most people, when they say healthy dont pay much attention to things like oil and cheese. You obviously do and that suits me to a T. Thanks much!
Laundromat with Sulfur Smelling Water?
If this smelly water is coming from the pipes which feed your laundramat, Charles, theres a very good possibility the water department of your town or city will have answers for you. Before you spend any money on water treatment, why not ask the folks whose...
Thank You Speech Ideas?
Thank you very much for this honour. I would not be here today, accepting this award, without the help of _______ (your bosss name), and - indeed - the entire management team.
Finding a Lost Parent?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS), sometimes known as Mormons, have done a really great job of compiling geneology records. Theyre very good about making their research findings available to anyone and everyone (you dont have to become a...
Cleaning Smoke Off of Porcelain Dolls?
Have you considered asking professional doll collectors / historians?
White Spots on Laminate Flooring?
You might have to use sandpaper, sand down to bare wood (laminate), re-stain and re-lacquer. Stop by your local hardware store and ask someone for help / advice?
Copper Sulfate Killed Fish in Pond?
Not that I know everything about koi, Andrea, but if the copper sulfate killed them, chances are pretty good itll kill more of them. Clean your tank and start fresh, would be my advice. However, why not consult a professional? Perhaps someone at the place where...
Fundraising Ideas for Girl Scout Trip?
I would happily pay a crew to help with spring yard work as well as spring house (and garage) cleaning. Surely Im not the only one.
Lightening Hair With Lemon Juice?
With a great deal of sunshine and even more patience, yes. Please consider the other effects of spending time in the sun and use sunscreen?
Selling Homemade Foods?
Ive considered this very thing, Pumpkin. Unfortunately, there seems to be a lot of red tape and hoops through which one must jump: health inspection / certification, business licensing, insurance (to name the more onerous). To the best of my understanding, regulations...
Cleaning Business Name Ideas?
This is called branding, Chanel. Find / choose a business name thats easy for people to remember and recommend. That said, if you use words like Best or Superior, make sure you and your partner ARE the best and superior. Are you mighty maids (strong)? Are you...
Kitchen Moulding Paint Color Advice?
Personally, JLaura, I prefer to keep things simple and matching. Stark white is, well, stark. It also shows dirt more readily than a creamier shade. Too (and again this is a personal preference), I find a room more restful and relaxing with very few colour...
Clear Drying Glue for Display?
You can use Elmers basic white or pretty much any carpenters white glue as they all dry clear. Its not expensive so pick up a small bottle and experiment with it before tackling your project. Your next best option (for something which lasts practically forever...
No Sew King Blanket from Two Twin Size Blankets?
Hey, Nicole. You can of course try fabric glue but maybe stop by your local fabric shop and ask about their fusable material and if it might be strong enough? This is something youd activate by ironing (placing a strip between two layers of fabric and using...
Real Estate Transaction Firm Name Ideas?
Home Sweet Home (if youre specializing in residential and not corporate properties)?
Removing a Cup Holder from Bathroom Mirror?
Id suggest using a very thin yet strong knife, perhaps an Exacto, to gently and patiently work behind the cup holder where its attached to the mirror and lift it from the glass. Allow yourself plenty of time. Once its finally off, then use the Goo Gone to remove...
Memory Craft 8000 Won't Sew?
Does your machine have a mechanism which disengages the sewing engine so that you can wind bobbins? Check to make sure that isnt the problem, please? It may come as a surprise to many, but sewing machines greatly benefit from regular maintenance, particularly...
Saving Money on Food?
Try growing your own vegetables? Buy cheaper cuts of meat, or cut back on meat consumption, and learn to cook those (often) tougher cuts. Make more things from scratch instead of buying prepared items such as soup, rice and biscuit mixes or even entire meals...
Selling Trees for Lumber?
And if youre worried about your home, contact an arborist to trim tops and potentially damaging branches.
What Is This Houseplant?
From the stems, the poor thing looks like a Dieffenbachia (mine has variegated leaves but are the same shape as yours). To propogate, simply lop off a chunk of one of those stems and stick it in a jar of water. Set it in a sunny spot and wait for roots to grow...
Cleaning Business Name Ideas?
Using slang is usually a bit chancy, given the risk of not being understand by one group or another (people for whom English is a second language being one example). Dig out a Thesaurus? Every Detail Cleaning is only one example of the many options available...
Collecting Back Child Support?
And then theres the issue of whether you want a relationship with your dad. Going after him for money sounds to me like a great way to keep him out of your life.
Speaking at an Employee of the Year Award Ceremony?
As one who has written many speeches for others, I can tell you to start with Congratulations. You might like to continue by commending your co-worker for all the traits which (s)he contributes to an enjoyable workplace: lending a hand where needed, boosting...
Name Ideas for an Elderly Activity Group?
A friend of mine who recently celebrated her 89th reminds me that we all revert to childhood as we age. Why not go with something around that idea? Kids Again, Childhood 2.0 (for example).
Fee for Initial Cleaning?
Do they want you to deal with the clutter, Glenda, or just clean around it? At this point, you have no idea how long itll take. Why not charge a flat hourly rate?
Fundraising Ideas for a Town Party?
Have you considered talking to corporate sponsors? Local businesses may appreciate the chance to put up a banner or have their name on a program (if youre planning a series of events). Alternately, if youre going to give a speech, thats another chance to recognize...
Hot Smell from Breaker Panel When Using Clothes Dryer?
In addition to Bruces recommendations, I strongly urge you to not leave the house when the dryer is running until this problem is addressed. Also, please consider keeping a fire extinguisher close at hand.
14th Birthday Party Ideas?
Stay up all night? Move furniture aside and snuggle together on the floor (all six of you)? If you dont have enough blankets or pillows, ask your guests to bring their own?
What Is This Houseplant?
Your lovely plant is called hoya (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoya) and just wait until it blooms!
Finding Relatives?
Have you considered contacting the LDS / Mormons? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been researching geneology for many years and you neednt be Mormon to access their records. Simply find a Family History Center in your vicinity and ask if...
Sharing Living Expenses With Boyfriend?
I do love smart women (that would be the gals who responded) and hope you can join that club in the near future.
Comparing Cost of Drip Coffee to K-cups?
Simple arithmetic? Dont forget to factor in the environmental cost of recylcing all that packagin.
Machine Won't Pull Up Bobbin Thread?
Do you expect the service shop to warranty their work? If you cant get the machine to work take it back and ask for their expert to fix it. Perhaps an apprentice did the service job? Dont leave the shop until youre sure the machine is working properly.
Name for Home Decorating and Interior Design Business?
Have you googled MILF? Its rude and crude and youll probably be a laughing stock if you use it. Why not use your initials? As long as your business name includes a descriptor so that people can find you when they search online, youll be good.
Thrifty 50th Birthday Celebration Ideas?
One of the fun things about special occasions, Aggie, is anticipation. Why not invite your favourite people to help with ideas and planning? If its your bday, theyll know what you like best in terms of activities (going for dinner or cooking at home, for example...
Responsibility for Funeral Expense?
Why not ask a lawyer (and mention where you both live)? I understand the laws differ rather markedly from place to place.
Starting a Home Food Delivery Service?
What a fun idea, Tanita! Before you decide, however, please consider the expenses involved as well as the potential income. Start by acquiring as much information as possible. Why not buy an inexpensive notebook to keep all the information in one place? Your...
Setting Cleaning Rate?
Id say $30 - $35 an hour would be fair. If the floors are truly grimy, itll take a longer of course and if you havent seen the place the last thing you want to do is give a flat quote.
Preventing Scissors from Rusting?
Dry them immediately when they get wet. Fill an old coffee can with rice and store your scissors, open, in the rice.
Crunchy Chickpea Snacks
I like to buy the dried version and re-hydrate them myself (less salt than the canned version). By the way? No oil required. E-mail if you want my recipe. wordswork@telus.net
Daycare Business Name Ideas?
Its not a nursery rhyme or childrens story, but do you remember the song, Teddy Bears Picnic?
Inexpensive Dental Treatment Without Insurance?
You dont say where here is, Jaffer. And Im sorry to hear youre in pain. Please check for a dental college in your area? They may need you for part of their practical training and, as such, will charge much less than a fully trained dentist.
Identifying Smell in House?
Did you close up or cover the chimneys, outside? If theyre still open to the elements you may have birds or squirrels nests.
Agencies that Help with Rent and Utilities?
Can you get a part-time job? How about a roommate to help share costs?
Slogan for Residential and Office Cleaning Business?
Why not keep it simple and use your name? Sis Thomas Cleaning Services for Home and Office. When you meet clients, theyll be impressed to shake the hand of the owner.
Re-dyeing Hair?
Bleach and dye are incredibly damaging, Brandi. Why not try living with the results for a few months until new growth is long enough to style? Treating your hair again before then will very probably result in severe damage and breakage. Your other option would...
Costume Party for 11th Birthday?
Why not check local restaurants to see if they have a small separate room available? Im not sure what your budget is, but most businesses in my area are happy to have people order food and dont charge extra for the room. Another option might be to check with...
14th Birthday Party Ideas?
Why not call a number of restaurants in your neighbourhood to see what they would charge? Perhaps inquire about a smaller, separate room? You might have to arrange your own games and activities.
Preventing Underarm Odor?
Perhaps research the cause of strong body odour? For instance, some people love to eat garlic and the aroma oozes out of their pores.
14th Girl's Birthday Ideas?
Im guessing shes your best friend because the two of you have many common interests. Why not make a list of some of your favourite things and as your friend to choose two or three?
Dyeing Hair After Bleaching?
By all means go ahead and re-dye your hair! Ignore all the good advice and common sense. When your hair starts breaking and huge chunks show up in your hairbrush, you might want to remember to i) do a little research before taking such measures, ii) actions...
Donating Quilting Fabric?
Why not call a fabric shop or quilting center for information about people who make quilts for charity?
Spinach and Cheddar Quiche
Not meaning to rain on your parade, Jackie, but you call this light? With two cups of cheese, pie pastry (usually laden with unnecessary fat), half and half cream and whole eggs? Wowsa, Girl, you must be seriously into working out! Give this a try next time...
Starting a Savings Account
That was really great advice! And the money our money earns (interest on the savings account)? The easiest money well ever get!
