Strained Relationship with Brother?
Would your brother be willing to have a agree to disagree and not talk politics rule? Maybe you could both agree to not discuss controversial issues, and just keep to fun holiday type stuff. Whenever I deal with someone like that, I just nod and smile. No point...
Graduation Party Ideas: Physician Assistant Theme?
Congratulations! Medical Decorations: Maybe you could buy a package of those blue gloves and blow them up for balloons? Other people have suggested that you can make fake prescription sheets and fake x-rays to hang up. Skeletons? I guess they do sell inflatable...
12th Birthday Party Ideas?
Well, without knowing what she likes to do or how many people she is planning to invite, here are some ideas: Chef Party: Have the kids make their own pizza, decorate their own cupcakes, or design their own sundaes. I know that Dance, Dance Revolution is popular...
Recipes for Homemade Makeup and Foundation?
I havent tried any of these yet myself, so I dont have a personal recommendation, but try reading this article about making your own cosmetics, it comes with a few recipes: http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/green-living/my-diy-beauty-brand-homemade-cosmetics...
Homemade Facial Scrub Recipe?
Well, there are tons of recipes here on Thrifty Fun and online for all kind of different facial scrubs. I have used olive oil and sugar mixed to make a body scrub, but its a little too harsh for the face. Ive heard that some people use a finer grain - like...
Remedy for Acne?
Firstly, this happens to tons of people - so many, in fact, that although you think you need to hibernate, you dont. Its so common that most people probably dont even notice. Dr. Phil had a quote, You would stop worrying about what people think of you if you...
Teaching a Pitbull Not to Bite?
I disagree with Muttmom. Do not ever let your kids be pull-toys for a biting dog. If you are willing to take the dog to a trainer and pay to have training, thats one thing. I wouldnt adopt a puppy who bites if I had kids. And pitbulls have a specific bite: A...
Planning a Wedding on $3000?
Check out this website for cheaper months info: It looks like November is the closest to the date you want, as far as cheap months go. http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/understanding-how-dates-and-times-affect-wedding-c.html
Girl's 10th Birthday Party Ideas?
I love Kansas Cindys ideas! Also, check out the local playground. If you have some money to spend on this, maybe the bowling alley, especially since a lot of these have kids specials in the summer and you can get a really good deal. The town pool might be a...
Can You Freeze Alcoholic Beverages?
Alcohol freezes at -173 degrees Fahrenheit (-114 Celsius). Thats way too cold to freeze in a freezer.
Uses for Empty Facial Tissue Boxes?
Why dont you check out ThriftyFuns article: Uses for Tissue Boxes? Also, if you have kids, they can make good finger puppet theaters.
Activities When Babysitting a Five Year Old?
Try this recipe for sand dough: Sculpt a summer sandcastle, even f you dont live near the beach! What you need (per person) 1 cup clean sand 1/2 cup cornstarch 3/4 cup water Old pot (per batch) 1. Have an adult (you, if youre old enough) put all the ingredients...
Sending Books to Africa?
Check out Books For Africa: http://www.booksforafrica.org I sent a ton of books to them.
Menu for a Breast Cancer Survivor Luncheon?
I know this is a month late so I dont know if you still need it, but for $12 a person you should be able to get a nice menu together. The Susan Komen folks had a Pink Promises Brunch which I think served pink foods. Im thinking something made out of raspberries...
Living on a Limited Budget
What a great article! I agree with one of the other posters - good shoes are better for your legs and back, and a lot of thrift stores sell used expensive shoes for less. Ive seen some shoes at thrift stores that are normally $80 - $100 for $12. You are an...
Planning a Bridal Shower for a Mature Bride?
Your sister probably has all of the household stuff she needs. A friend of mine had a cute shower theme: guests were supposed to bring something you needed to survive a marriage. It was fun and funny. Ive heard of other people having showers with a stipulation...
Name Ideas for Cleaning Business?
Swept Away? Windswept? Shore Clean? Lighthouse Keeping? Lighthouse Keepers? Beach Rose Cleaners? Tide-y Clean? New Wave Cleaners? Im out of ideas...good luck! :)
Getting Rid of Skin Tags?
I was watching an episode of Dr. Oz and he had a solution: http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/healthy-skin-secrets-and-skin-tag-treatment Hope this helps.
Advice for Teen Starting to Babysit?
Well, I wouldnt do it. I dont think kids are paid enough to take on the responsibilities of babysitting, and heaven forbid anything should happen to the children, shell have to carry that guilt and grief around with her for the rest of her life. That, and the...
Finding House Cleaning Service for Floors Only?
You might ask around the neighborhood to see if there are any teens or college kids willing to do it. Or put an ad in a church bulletin? The only difficulty with that is that cleaning services have bonded people, and hiring an odd jobs person is a little riskier...
17th Birthday Party Ideas?
Its tough to answer without more information. What time of year is your party? Will it be inside or outside? What is your budget? How many people are you planning to have? Boys and girls, or just girls? Overnight? If you can answer these questions, maybe we...
Dressing for a "Couples Through Time" Themed Sadies?
I would go on Google and research some famous couples. Here are a few to get you started: Antony and Cleopatra Napoleon and Josephine Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Sonny and Cher Or, to be funny, go as a clock and an hourglass! :) Have fun!
Heart-Shaped Petal Flower Pin
What a great idea! With a little tweaking, you could make great St. Patricks Day four leaf clovers too! :)
Cheap Recipes?
A filling food that isnt very nutritious but will fill you up are homemade flour-&-water noodles. You can use wheat flour to add a few nutrients, but anyway, it costs pennies: To Make Flour & Water Noodles you will need about 1/2 cup of flour per person. 1...
Dealing With Loneliness and Self Doubt After Death of Parents?
Hi Lynda. Im so sorry for your loss. It sounds like youre having a really rough time. Its so hard to lose people who are so close to you. I would suggest two things: 1) Find someone you can talk to, whether they are professional counselors or a grief support...
Cleaning a Lampshade
Check out: http://www.wisegeek.com/how-do-i-restore-antique-lamp-shades.htm http://www.ehow.com/way_5879409_care-vellum-shades.html From Askville at Amazon.com: I had a lamp in storage for a long time, and when I pulled it out, it looks kind of dingy, but its...
Easy Omelet Recipes?
The recipe in the freezer bag is dangerous, if you search it out youll see what people are saying, the freezer bag wasnt meant for the microwave, and the plastics will leach into your eggs.
Fun Things to Do With a Teenager?
You could teach him how to cook or garden. Teenage boys love to eat, and a lot of my students take culinary arts classes just so they can cook food for themselves! Ideas: Cooking, bike rides, scrabble, fishing, gardening (a lot of them are interested in landscaping...
Support Groups for Parents Who Have Lost an Adult Child?
Hi Teresa, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. I looked up grief counseling on Google, and found an article which reviewed online grief groups at associatedcontent.com. They said these were the best: www.griefnet.org www.groww...
Support Groups for Parents Who Have Lost an Adult Child?
Hi Teresa, I found a few other grief organizations that are recommended by the New England Organ Bank: Alive Alone: www.alivealone.org; an organization which benefits bereaved parents whose only child or all children are deceased. Bereaved Parents of the USA...
Summer Activities or Games for Children?
Check out the PBS kids show ZOOM. They have a website at www.pbs.org/zoom and it has TONS of activities for kids that age to do; arts, crafts, science, cooking, great fun activities. You might also check with your towns community center or rec. center to see...
Stretching Powdered Drink Mix
Why dont you just learn to drink and enjoy tap water? Its free, doesnt have plastic from the reused bottle leaching into it, and is monitored for cleanliness by the city water department.
Light Supper Menus Ideas for a Home for the Elderly?
I am concerned by the lack of nutritional oversight at this old age home. I agree with some of the earlier posters, soup and toast doesnt seem like enough food for dinner. If your home is in the US, Im surprised it hasnt been shut down. In any event, Im glad...
Health Concerns About Food Canned in China?
With all due respect, I have a hard time believing LisaE2, it sounds like a posting by someone who is fond of urban myths and not fond of Chinese people. However, if you are concerned about food youve bought, do some research! You can start by checking out...
Paint Color Advice for Kitchen With White Units, Black Worktops, and Red Accessories?
I think a sunshine-y yellow might look nice.
Disposing of Free Address Labels to Prevent Identity Theft?
I wouldnt worry too much about identity theft and address labels - anyone can look up your address in the phone book/internet and find your name and address. The library has city directories, too, and people can look up deed information in the town hall. I...
Ideas for Finding Free Furniture?
You might try Freecycle - http://www.freecycle.org/. I dont know too much about it, but i know people list stuff that they want to give away for free. Also, check curbs after yard sales (1 or 2 in the afternoon.) A lot of people put stuff on the curb with FREE...
Finding Help After House Fire?
Im not sure what specific charities are in the area, but you should try your local churches; they usually have some emergency funds. I would also check with your town govt, they might have some assistance agencies. And if your kids are under 5 you should apply...
Remedy for Shin Bone Leg and Toe Cramps at Night?
That was happening with my mom, she found somewhere that it could be caused by lack of potassium, so now she eats a banana every night. Sounds weird, but it works. If I were you, Id go to the doctor to rule out anything more serious.
Ironing Silk Shirt?
Dont iron it! I would try steam first - try hanging it in the bathroom during your shower. I think if you try to iron it the iron will burn right through. Sometimes I throw wrinkled clothes in the dryer with a wet towel, that works pretty well, but I dont know...
Helping a Friend Who Is Breaking Off a Relationship?
I agree with redhatterb - dont engage him at all. She might want to check out the domestic abuse hotline too for some advice. I dont know the # but Im sure she can google it. I bet they have a website. His behavior is abusive. I would block him from my email...
Where Can I Have Funeral Notices Laminated?
I am so sorry for your loss. I would advise against laminating, actually. Laminate is terrible for paper - it is corrosive, and newspaper is so acidic that the two of them combined is disastrous if youre trying to preserve the clipping. Instead, I would photocopy...
Catchy Name for My Small Cleaning Service?
Flower Power Cleaning Service Flowers Power Cleaning Flower Fresh Cleaners
How Do I Clean Spit Off of Walls?
I would also talk to your family doctor or the school counselor about this. Its not normal behavior (especially if this isnt from one episode) and they might have some insights for you. And everyone else - have some compassion. this might be this kids 25th...
Planning a Graduation Party?
I would get the balloons in her school colors w/ a few graduation-y mylar ones. Dollar tree sells a lot of nice graduation decorations, too. For food I would go w/ what the previous writer said, or I would get deli platters, salad, fruit salad, and a cake with...
How Do I Sanitize a Stainless Steel Bowl?
Oh, poor you! Id be freaked out, too! I would be more worried about cleaning the mixer, I think. Were they on that, too? The bowl should be easy to sanitize. I would fill up my sink with bleach and water and let the bowl (and all detachable stuff) sit in there...
Wedding Gift Ideas for the Couple Who Has Everything?
Maybe you could get her something from one of the fair trade sites like the hunger site, which has a lot of stuff from artisans in the developing world, and then proceeds go to help the hunger site or the rainforest site, etc. Also, maybe a Dessert-of-the-month...
Bedroom Paint Color Advice to Coordinate With Purple Curtains?
I always think a neutral color like ivory, linen, or cream work well, because then you can accessorize w/ colors and change the accessories when you want to. Also, light green walls might help if youre going for a flower (irises, violets) theme.
Improving Boxed Cake Mixes?
If it was me I wouldnt bother to doctor it. It tastes ok as is, most people dont even eat the cake at a wedding, and no one expects it to be that tasty, so I wouldnt bother, especially if youre making homemade frosting.
Decorating Luggage?
Appliqués? You can probably just hot glue them on. Bedazzler? :) let us know how it turns out!
Decoration Ideas for a Kitchen?
Sounds good to me! I hope you post a picture when youre done. :) Good luck!
My Frugal Life: Reuse Creatively
Wait...arent you the same poster who lambasted me for suggesting you reuse fabric to wrap gifts? I dont get it - didnt you tell me that reusing the material would be unbelievably tacky and suggest I go to the dollar store to buy new wrapping paper?
Church Anniversary Theme Ideas?
Which anniversary is it? I would think something like --- years of fellowship would meet most occasions. Is there some standout feature in your churchs history that you want to celebrate? Im sure if you gave us more info more people would respond with suggestions...
Thrifty Easter Ideas?
Dont forget a scavenger hunt at home with Easter eggs and jellybeans. Dollar tree sells cheap jellybeans.My parents always did this and we had a great time.
11th Birthday Party Ideas?
If shes set on the mystery party, maybe you could do a who stole the party favors? or something less violent like that. You could also do some kind of craft or cooking activity - kids that age love to make stuff, and the more grown-up and real, the better. You...
Inspirational Websites to Help Cope With Illness in the Family?
Make sure youre getting top care, too. My dad goes to Mass General and they have been treating his lesions w/ a proton beam and have been keeping his cancer under control, although he is terminal, too. Get second opinions and try to get the best doctors and...
Inspirational Websites to Help Cope With Illness in the Family?
Bestcancersites.com angelsforhope.org sends prayer angels to those w/ cancer, and also has a list of links to inspirational sites. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Bobby and your family.
Planning a Vacation In London and Ireland?
If I were you Id visit Achill Island, which is a small, rural, beautiful island off the west coast of Ireland- I guess its a popular vacation spot for locals. Anyway, its gorgeous and I loved it there. Also, check out the Lonely Planet guides- they have a lot...
Planning an Inexpensive Date Night at Home With Your Spouse?
I just came across this post so you might have already had your date night, but maybe if you started slowly and low-key - maybe with just a movie and a nice meal and dessert, and then try to schedule a date night every so often. There are some fun games out...
Puppies With Worms?
I dont know much about dogs, but I know heart worms are fatal, and theyre white. Go get some medical attention for your puppies, before its too late. I hate to say this, but if you cant afford a vet, maybe you should think about whether you can really afford...
Ideas for Reusing Mylar Balloons?
You can go to the search bar at the top-right corner of the home page and type in mylar balloon uses and see what comes up. I know people cut the mylar into two pieces (front and back) and use it for gift wrap. It is pretty, and durable! :)
Uses for Leftover Bread?
I think someone asked this a while ago. I think there are a few archives about it. Anyway, you can always make bread pudding. And I think theres a recipe on here for bread soup (its an Italian soup.)
Search Tips On Google
Oh great! Im glad it was helpful. :) Thanks, JustPlainJo - excellent advice, too! I havent tried Dogpile yet, but I will now!
Inexpensive Wedding Reception Venues in New Jersey?
You could also try the local VFW, Elks, or American Legion. Good luck!
Is It Safe to Use a Le Creuset Pan with a Chip in the Enamel?
Le Creuset has a lifetime warranty, so you can probably send to the company and get a new one. www.lecreueset.com. EHOW has an article about repairing enamel chips, and claim that its not safe to use the cookware when its chipped. I dont know how reliable it...
Tips for a Frugal Lifestyle?
Well, without having more specific information, I would recommend that you look at the list to the left of the screen and click on one of the topics. There are hundreds of tips on here for how to be frugal.
Soothing a Child's Cough?
It is such a bad idea to give anything to an infant without checking with his/her doctor, you could do more harm than good. Call the doctor!
Improving the Appearance of Bathroom Sink Without Cabinet Underneath?
Is it a pedestal sink? I think the most common thing people do is that hang-cloth-around it idea - you know, you attach fabric to the edge of the sink like a skirt? I think you can get directions at bhg.com; then you could put storage baskets underneath.
Getting My House and Life in Order?
Hi Rebecca, It sounds like maybe you might be suffering from anxiety, which along with depression, can manifest in hoarding. Im not a mental health professional, but it sounds like maybe you need some help to get your life back in order. A relative of mine...
Birthday Party Activities?
They could decorate their cupcakes. You could check out some craft ideas on some kids craft websites. Look for ice cream in a ziploc bag, thats fun and then they could add topping and have a ziploc bag sundae. Just make sure they wear mittens when theyre making...
Asking a Guy to Prom?
Oh please, DearWebby, what kind of advice is that? I asked one of my best friends to the prom, and he went with me. Hes your friend, hell probably be relieved that he gets to go to the prom, not have to ask, and be with a friend. If someone says no its not...
Kitchen Appliance Color Advice?
You could pick up one of the colors in your counter top, cream, caramel, or burgundy. if I were you, Id try to take a picture of the counter top (with plenty of natural light, if possible) and bring it with me to the appliance store to see what works. Im guessing...
Wall Hangings in a Bathroom with Red Poppy Shower Curtain?
I always used different stuff as long as they have the same colors. Hang the picture and see if it looks nice. If it looks good, its fine!
Making Mailboxes for Residents' Rooms in Nursing Home?
What about a basket-type of affair made of felt? I know they sell gift bags made of felt, theyre square and have a handle you could hang outside of the door. The ones Ive seen look kind of like lunch bags but theyre made of felt- you could reinforce the stitching...
Frugal Decorating Web Site?
Well, the best thing to do is to go to Google and type in budget decorating and see what comes up. I did that and thebudgetdecorator.com came up. It seems like a good website. I also found rentaldecorating.com, which is a great site.
Feeding a Family of Four on $400 a Month?
Potatoes, eggs, and bananas are some of the cheapest and most nutritious foods out there. Heres my suggested list: Eggs Potatoes Onions Carrots Flour and yeast (to make bread) Chicken legs and thighs Dried beans Peanut butter Bananas Raisins Box of dried milk...
Sweet Sixteen Birthday Party Ideas?
Im not sure what youre looking for because you dont give a lot of info. There are a lot of party planning websites, and of course Martha Stewarts website is good for general party ideas. You can find some good ideas at How To Do Things.com - check out their...
Decoration Ideas for Masquerade Quinceanera?
Check prom supply catalogues - they often have themed party kits from which you can get ideas. Also, think about making giant versions of your masquerade masks to hang on the walls ( I assume youre using the ones in the photo?)
Sweet 16 Masquerade Party?
There are some good party planning websites that you can go to for help. You might especially want to look for ones for proms. When we planned our schools prom we used a website called Andersonsprom.com. You need to figure out: Date and Time: Budget: Guest...
Living During the Great Depression?
PBS.org : go to American Experience section of website, they have lots of episodes about life during the depression; I would also suggest you go to your local library and check out some period cookbooks and household management books. The reference librarian...
Food Ideas for Summer Outdoor Wedding?
A friend of mine had an ice cream truck at his wedding, it was so much fun! I dont know how much it cost, though. Cotton candy machines and popcorn carts can be rented at party rental places, and theyre fairly inexpensive, fun and summery. :) FYI: Watch out...
Inexpensive Christmas Gift for Boyfriend Who Likes Xbox Games?
I dont know a lot about them, but I know they have magazines and code books and other books dedicated to video games, maybe you could get him a subscription to one of the magazines? Good luck! :)
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie?
Is this it? I found it at cooks.com: BANANA SPLIT PIE Read more about it at www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1737,153179-235205,00.html Content Copyright © 2010 Cooks.com - All rights reserved. CRUST FOR 9X13 PAN: 2 c. graham cracker crumbs 1 stick butter 1 lg. can...
Art Print Stuck to Mat?
If I were you Id call a local art gallery or museum and see if they can recommend a conservator for you. Conservators are professionals who specialize in repairing such things. Also, your local museum curator might be able to give you some suggestions. Good...
Wrap Gifts in Old Shirts
I suppose it would be tacky if you just cut them up any old way and threw a gift together. I meant use the fabric to make cloth wrapping for gifts. I have lots of old Christmas shirts people gave me that I dont like, and I also have cute I-dont-wear-them-anymore...
Wedding Meal on a Tight Budget?
Lasagna, salad and bread is perfectly normal wedding reception food. I would put a call out to my family and friends asking to borrow table linens, fancy serving platters and silver/silver-plated serving utensils, most moms, aunts and grandmothers have them...
Engagement Photo: Holding Hands
Great photo! You should go to the US postal service website and get it made into stamps for your wedding invites! :)
