Use Wasp Spray to Kill Roaches
Id echo what Diane said with the further instruction to scrub surfaces thoroughly, not just rinse.
Use a Bath Towel in Place of Mat
Dont you find that the towel bunches up and/or slips? I do. Cay from FL
Avon's Skin So Soft for Mosquitoes
Glad to report that this works on a misty night on a Virginia river. We lived on our boat, so couldnt get away by moving to land. Do think it also depends on ones acidic makeup: Im very acidic and mosquitoes love me, but dont love Avon!
Gift Ideas for New Boyfriend?
I like the framed collage. To make it personal, yet not too much, how about it also containing pics of places youve been together, such as movie sites, etc.? Dont include either of you in those; just scenes.
Gift Ideas for Boyfriend's Birthday?
With five dogs, how about a PetSmart (or such) gift card, done up in a fancy small box with ribbon and a cute/funny card?
Small White Worms in Recycle Bin?
Im not an entymologist, but sounds like maggots (larvae) of some fly. Perhaps fruit flies? Are the recycled items carefully washed before placing in bins?
Reporting Sexual Harassment?
This is serious, as he has access to your file. My suggestions are: (1) Document date, time, description of encounters and verbal threats; (2) go to hospital/clinic administrative manager with this information; (3) in the meantime, give all such information...
Reusing Ziploc Bags?
Sometimes I have noticed a leakage that occurred in the sealed part of the tray when the shrink wrap was put on by the grocer/butcher, especially with chicken and ground meat. Should this be the case, I would strongly recommend washing the bags thoroughly before...
Banana Spice Cookies
Your recipe lists 2-1/4 cups flour total, yet you mention 2-1/4 cups whole wheat and 1 cup white. Is this right? (b)Editors Note:(/b) It should be 1 1/4 whole wheat flour and 1 cup white for a total of 2 1/4. The recipe has been changed. Thanks for your help...
Kindle Reviews?
I first had the Kindle; now I have Kindle Fire. I really like the back-lit Fire, as one doesnt need an outside source of light and the colors are true. It is sensitive to the touch, but that is minor. I have many apps on it, and one can get and send e-mail...
Dry Towel in Dryer with Wet Clothes
By the same token, if your dry clothes are slightly wrinkled from staying in the dryer too long, put a damp (clean) towel in with the clothes, and dry on LOW for about 15-20 minutes. Remove all immediately. Cay from FL
Easy Peel Boiled Eggs
Looks like a great idea, especially considering the source. Ill try it soon. Maybe Im behind the times, but I was startled yesterday to find commercially prepared, peeled hard-boiled eggs in the grocers refrigerated case! I guess ok in an emergency, but really...
Easy Peel Boiled Eggs
Forgot to mention in my earlier response that adding a teaspoon or a bit less to the cooking water prior to heating prevents much of the egg white from oozing out should there be a cracked egg in the bunch. Also, very important eggs are added to the pot before...
Window Treatment for Arched Window?
Had the same problem with my husbands office window: sun shone right in his eyes in the afternoon. Purchased an inexpensive valance and tacked it up. Depending on the length of the space to be covered, use 24 or 26. Hope this helps. Doesnt have to look makeshift...
Reviews of Dryer Balls?
I have two, and like them. I dont use them when I am drying delicates, but they really work on towels, with which one should not use dryer sheets (absorbency issue). By using the balls, one need never buy foil, etc. They are reusable forever.
Area Rug Color Ideas?
The only color I can recommend for the shades you named is gold. Not too dark or light, and not too bright. Flecks of other colors would be okay. I can envision it now -and its pretty! Cay from FL
E-books for Inexpensive Reading
I have a Kindle and now, a Kindle Fire. Perhaps the Fire is so-called because its the first thing youll reach for if you have to get out of the house quickly! Seriously, though, I subscribe to a free site, eReaderIQ.com. They send you a listing every day of...
Use Place Mats for Shelves in Fridge
I think the whole problem can be solved (liners vs. none): For glass shelves, use mats or the fabric mentioned above. For wire shelves, nothing is needed. Cay from FL
Vinegar for Ants
We were besieged with coffee-ground-sized ants summer before last. Wish I had thought to try this. Nothing I did try worked, and professional pest control people wouldnt touch it. Conservatively, there were millions upon millions! Note: Loved your humor. Cay...
Use Lip Balm to Moisten Fingertips
Two balms: one for fingers; one for lips. Label accordingly, please - no transfer of germs.
Nontoxic Vinegar Bug Spray
White or cider? Im going to try the white first. Thanks...from a Florida girl, where the mosquito is the state insect (really).
Deeli's Shake n Bake Copycat
Think I will try this with skinless, boneless chicken breasts, baking them after sprinkling them with the remaining coating. I especially like that one can decrease the amount of salt. Thanks, Deeli. Cay from FL
Scalloped Corn
Im going to have this for dinner tonight: halved, and a little shredded cheese added to the crumbs. I cannot stand up long, so this is just what appeals to me and my tummy! Thanks as always, Robin. Cay fro FL
When You Get Ants, Make Lemonade!
What a great tip! Pet- and eco-friendly. We were overrun with tiny black ants year before last, and even the pest control people refused to try to eradicate them, as they had never seen so many million of the little pests. They didnt return last summer, but...
Product Review: Amazon Kindle (3rd Gen.)
That link to new free books is great! Truly! I have just spent over an hour (and no money) shopping for my Kindle, and Im only up to page 6 (of 31). Thanks so much. I spend a lot of time in bed and rely on computer and Kindle (and Kindle Fire) for entertainment...
Lipton's Celebrated Meat Loaf
I agree with Lilac. As to TXBettys problem with meatloaf falling apart, I, too, had that problem until I read somewhere that it could be prevented by lightly sauteing the vegs before combining with other ingredients. Eggs are necessary for binding all together...
Rotisserie Chicken
What is EVOO? (b)Editors Note: (/b) This is a common abbreviation for extra virgin olive oil. I have added a clarification to the recipe.
Making Sure Cleaning Business Name is Available?
Dont know how your state handles this, but when I went to the Clerk of the Court in Virginia Beach, VA, to get my business license, they looked up the name I had chosen to be sure it was not in use. Perhaps to save a few steps, call the appropriate entity and...
Amazing Grace Christmas Light Show
No picture, either! (This has been happening nearly every day, recently. Missing pictures, that is. Some come through, but some dont.)
Amazing Grace Christmas Light Show
The video finally came up, but my earlier comment about previous pictures holds true. Also, it would help to know this will be a video, so we wont keep looking for a still picture.
Cooking Squash in the Microwave
Ive always pierced the outside with a steel kitched fork, microwaved the whole spaghetti squash for five minutes, then cut it lengthwise, handling the hot squash with oven mitts lined with paper towels (so as not to get the mitts stained). Scoop out the seeds...
Kitchen Paint Color Advice?
Carols idea is good about taking pictures, as long as the colors come out true. But, wouldnt that be a bit shadowy with all that same color? How about a pale peach? That would give the vintage room light without being too much so. Then, too, perhaps someone...
Copy And Paste Text To Print Information
I find that emailing the recipe, etc. to myself often works (when the item is separated from others as in Thrifty Fun). Then I transfer the email to its proper folder. Cay from FL
US Postal Increase on January 22, 2012
Thanks, Deeli. Readers are reminded that the Forever stamps are just that. If you anticipate heavy correspondence in 2012 (or even next years Christmas cards) they might want to stock up. Cay from FL
Use Pegboard to Hang Kitchen Tools
I have a medium-small kitchen with the one wall by the window wide enough for two pegboard panels. I covered them with blue-and-white-checked Contact vinyl paper. After hanging the panels, I determined where my utensils, copper pots, etc. should go. I then...
Remembering to Use Coupons
I have been putting an asterisk before the items name, with more than one if such is appropriate. I like your idea as it would be easier to see, but if you cant find your highlighter, the asterisk is also noticeable, or a combination to denote more than one...
Use Denture Cleaning Tablets
What is the item you are cleaning? I get the toilet bowl, but what did you originally clean? Cay from FL
Doily to Brighten Up Drab Lampshade
Good idea! I have a few left of several dishcloths I crocheted with colorful thread several years back. Never have used them; they look a lot like the picture. Going to get out my trusty glue gun and attach a couple right now. Never would have thought of this...
Store Batteries in the Refrigerator
Be sure to bring them up to room temperature (naturally) before placing in device.
Finding Free Books for Your Kindle
Amazon.com:Free eBook Collections:Kindle e-Books is the source I use. It lists over 15,000 free books (Alcott, Balzac, Dickens, Twain, etc.). I have already downloaded over 1,290 books and am happily reading them. I might add that someone could take my microwave...
Shucking Corn On The Cob?
If you are eating them right away, cut off stalk end up to end of ear, remove outer husks down to last two deep, place in microwave for two minutes per ear (about six minutes for four ears). When cooked, remove carefully and shuck the ears. The silks will come...
English Muffin Pizzas
Congratulations on surviving your attack! Our family has used a variety of this recipe for years, substituting Hormel chili without beans. I also found that lightly toasting the muffins before adding the remainder of ingredients assured us of having crispy...
Kitchen Paint Color Advice: Adding Brown to Tan Walls?
If you just wish to add a bit of the brown (a whole wall might make the room too dark), buy inexpensive stencils in a paint store or other, such as Walmart, and paint with them. It is easy to do and would add a unique touch. Cay from FL
Rolled Steak
This sounds great. For years, I have been doing a variation, using flank steak and cooking for 12 hours in slow cooker. I include stuffing or seasoned croutons and anthing else that looks as though it would enhance the flavor. Cay from FL
Rust Stains in the Bathtub?
I tried CLR and Lime Away, didnt like results. I have an old tub. Saw recommendation for Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner. Voila! It worked wonderfully. Tub looked great (or as great as it could). Just give it awhile to work; I gave it over two hours just to get the...
Centerpiece for Church Ladies Day Themed "What Fills Your Cup?"
Anyone have a pretty or unusual teapot? This, combined with flowers (real or artificial, such as daffodils) and ribbons, would be lovely and Spring-like for the coming season. After all, a teapot fills your cup! Cay from FL
Product Review: Witz Sportscase
You can find these at boat accessories stores, such as Boat U.S. and West Marine. Also in their catalogs and online. Cay from FL
Scenery: Winter Wonderland
Dont recall the last time Ive caught my breath over a small photograph! Cay from FL
Name Ideas for a Cake Decorating Business?
Sorry, LeeW, Incredible Edibles is name of natl chain of fruit arranged as flowers! Cay from FL
Scenery: West Coast Bluff (San Jose, CA)
Your daughter need aspire no more. She is a photographer! Lovely photos. Does she have a sample album? If so, bet its first rate. Cay from FL
Paint Color Advice for Chairs in a Black, Brown, Beige and Tan Kitchen?
You need red, girl! Not dark red, not light red--just Chinese red, a red red! Then coordinate potholders, towels, etc. For goodness sake, not blue. With all the browns, etc., it would be sad. Cay from FL
Paint Color Advice for Chairs in a Black, Brown, Beige and Tan Kitchen?
I was thinking about your request last night when I couldnt sleep, and want to add something: If red is not your thing, how about a white? Not an off-white; really white and enamel to reflect light? That would perk up the whole kitchen and I dont think youd...
Paint Color Advice for Chairs in a Black, Brown, Beige and Tan Kitchen?
I was thinking about your request last night when I couldnt sleep, and want to add something: If red is not your thing, how about a white? Not an off-white; really white and enamel to reflect light? That would perk up the whole kitchen and I dont think youd...
Advice On Opening and Financing a Small Business?
There are several helpful books on the market, but that are written in a technical manner and can be hard to relate to your needs. Two that are clear and relevant are Robert A. Cookes small business formation handbook and buy your own business with other peoples...
Substituting Evaporated Milk for Whole Milk in Recipes?
Its definitely 1:1. Use full strength when adding to mashed potatoes. Cay from FL
Substituting Marshmallow Creme for Marshmallows in Fudge?
I think the previous poster has it backwards: the requester wanted to use the creme. On the jar of creme, you will usually find the recipe. I have used nothing but creme for years, but right now I cant recall the exact amount. Google the request indicating...
Hazelnut Crescent Cookies
Yum! You may not bake much, but when you do, you come up with a winner! Okay, Ill bite: What is the easy way of cracking Brazil nuts? Cay from FL
Turn Microwave Plate and Turntable Into A Lazy Susan
Thanks, Deeli. Your ideas and pics are always right on the spot. Im hoping for a new microwave for Christmas, so the tip is very timely. Cay from FL
Holiday: Thrifty Christmas Decorating
Thanks for sharing your hard work. If you arent a specialty home decorator, you should be! Delightful with a loving accent. Cay from FL
Holiday: Christmas Dining Room
That is lovely. Brings to mind all the feeling of this glorious Season. Thanks for sending the pictures. Cay from FL
Creamy Eggnog
Yum! Ill be right over! Have a son in Arvada, so thats a possibility. Seriously, best home recipe Ive seen. Might steal the bourbon from Deelis recipe for whipped cream! Thanks. Cay from FL
Websites Offering Free Computer Software Classes?
If all else fails, Google DearWebby.com. If he doesnt know, no one does! Cay from FL
Gift Ideas for Boyfriend Who Likes Outdoor Activities?
Danward has a very good idea. Another idea you might consider is to go to the place that handles snowmobiles and look over the accessories. I dont really know about snowmobiles (being a Floridian), (but I do know the Harley shops have lots of neat things for...
Gift Ideas for a Dallas Cowboys Fan?
If you can spend $19.98 plus shipping, catalog companies such as Carol Wright Gifts have those Snuggies (wearable fleece throws) in most of the football team designs. I plan to get one for my son, also a Cowboys fan. They are great for putting over one in a...
Scenery: The Needle's Eye (South Dakota)
One of the most dramatic photos Ive seen. Your perspective was excellent! Thanks so much for sharing. Husband and I used to avoid interstates, too. Arent the blue highways great? My memories of those trips are dear to me. Cay from FL
Table Linen Storage
Im a bit dubious about the rubber bands. They would not only create a groove, but if storage area is warm/hot, they quickly soften and leave residue on ones lovely things. Ribbon (white) is the way to go, or lay them flat in an underbed storage container (preferably...
Homecoming Float Ideas: Trojans Vs Tigers?
Cage idea is good. Use chicken wire for the cage. It isnt expensive and gives the ambiance you want. My float (many years ago!) when The U was playing U of Fla. was a Miami player stuffing a football into the mouth of a gator (chicken wire and papier mache...
Backsplash Ideas for Faux Granite Countertops?
The steel color would work, especially if shiny. Easy to clean, too. Check Wal-Mart, Home Depot, etc. and dont be afraid to ask for advice (at home stores, not Wal-Mart!). Cay from FL
Preparing for a Power Outage
Excellent post. Plus thanks to nearly all the addl posts. I can relate to the buying home near the named facilities; I live (rent, thank goodness) on an ancient line that has outages spasmatically for no really apparent reason! A major PVC pipe manufacturer...
Bedding Color Advice for Bedroom With Grey Walls and Brown Carpet?
Coral is good if with very little orangey tint. My personal favorite, and one I could live with a long time, would be dusty rose (medium value). Blues and greens would be too depressing in time, for me, anyway.
Add Salt to Toothpaste
Beware of using salt too often (more than once a week) because it is an abrasive. Older people with worn enamel are better off not using it at all. I know it shines on healthy enamel, but please be careful. Cay from FL
Crush Garlic Instead of Mincing
Good idea, and you get fresh garlic. If you dont have a source for rocks (I live in FL) use mortar and pestle. Cay from FL
Firefighter Recipes
Thanks, Deeli. Never heard of mets before. And, yes, I did get the last sentence! Cay from FL
Buying Clothes You Will Wear
The original tip and all the feedbacks are excellent. Thanks for so much uncommon sense advice! (Matchy-match is when the outfit is over-matched: all one color/print, shoes, purse, etal. Right? I tend to do this, so I remove one matching item and substitute...
Chicken Potluck
Question 1: Do you mix liquid ingredients together before pouring over chicken? Question 2: How long until tender? I have found baking takes varied times when it comes to chicken, and are there many things harder to eat than over-cooked chicken? Cay from FL
Old-Fashioned Hershey's Cocoa Fudge
I, too, made this fudge with my mother. We also used a platter. I was an only child, so more for me! Thanks for the recipe and the hint about corn syrup; we didnt use it, but Im going to try it. Cay from FL
Peach and Cottage Cheese Dish
Your recipe brought back memories of my mother trying (unsuccessfully) to get me to eat cottage cheese! She also put a pineapple ring on a plate with cottage cheese in the hole. Nothing worked. The kicker is now I love cottage cheese. I often mix it with Bacon...
Formula for Mechanic's Hand Cleaner
Thanks to bailegirl for clarifying grits for those others out there who have never delighted in this food of the South. I might add that there is a coarse-ground cornmeal that may work for the purpose and wouldnt use up grits. Also, in all too many parts of...
Save Money on Fabric Softener
Good idea except for one thing: Occasionally, fabric softener causes spots on clothes, even in the washer. I have not been able to track down why this is, but I have had things ruined. That led me to using only the sheets in the dryer. The spots eventually...
Chocolate Chip Cookies Come Out Flat?
The previous ideas are worth trying. I have found that when the recipe says butter (or stick margarine), softened, dont soften it in microwave or oven. Let it sit out on counter for 30 minutes. Too soft butter will cause the cookies to flatten. Never use tub...
Desserts With Graham Cracker Crust?
Quick Key Lime Pie: 1 can condensed milk (not evaporated), 1/4 cup lime juice (I use bottled key lime juice), 1 large (or 2 small) tubs Cool Whip (I use the creamy when I can find it). Fold together and put into crust. Either freeze it or let it set for an...
Easter Blessings: Baked Ham
I can only echo the previous responder. I am keeping this recipe and the loving words accompanying it, as I have kept so many of your earlier excellent recipes. You are a great part of the reason I truly enjoy this newsletter. Thanks. CayC from FL
