In the United States, Halloween is celebrated with pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating. However, the US is far from the only country that celebrates this ancient Celtic festival. From its origins in Ireland, Halloween has spread across the globe with a multitude of ways of celebrating this day. Austria and Belgium In these European nations, it [...]
Crafting is a hobby and a profession, loved by people worldwide who want to create art, clothes, jewelry and more with their own hands. Being a crafter doesn’t mean you can’t be plugged in as well, though – here’s a quick overview of some essential iPhone apps for the tech savvy maker. 1. Etsy Addict [...]
As we slowly transition into winter, it’s well worth the effort to prepare our vehicles for harsh and changing weather conditions. Driving in snow, ice, wet and cold temperatures is a challenge to both driver and vehicle. The following are the basics of preparing your vehicle for winter driving. Car Fluids Check all the fluids [...]
Fast-food toys can become a large collection quickly. Some are easy to toss or donate, but others seem destined to sink to the bottom of the toy box. Dig them out and put them to use. Make a wreath, give some away on Halloween, use some as cake toppers, ornaments or stocking stuffers, or attach [...]
Birthday parties for kids can bust your budget. Planning the party can be stressful, too. You tend to forget basic games and activities can be the most fun. Supplies don’t have to be costly and many can be made with items you already have in your home. Many traditional party games such as musical chairs, [...]
This contest is sponsored by Kraft Foods, Inc. I was given three samples to try. I enjoyed them. My kids liked the Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce best. I think it’s because it tasted a lot like the Deluxe version. I liked using the oven finish option and liked all three flavors. It was a bit [...]
Congratulations to Nichole McDowell. You’ve won a $200 Sears Shopping spree. Thank you to everyone that entered and a special thank you to Sears.
DEAR SARA: Is there a way to make white sheets white again? My husband and I got some white sheets after we received a duvet and duvet cover for free (air miles reward item). I’ve been washing the sheets in hot water and bleach, followed by a cold water and Tide wash. The bleach smell [...]
There are plenty of frugal storage solutions that can help you organize. Popular examples include baby wipes containers, coffee cans, Clementine crates, jars and shoe boxes. The first two reader tips share a couple of ideas for reusing common food boxes. FRUGAL STORAGE: I use the Velveeta/American cheese boxes for small garden items (ties, balls, [...]
It’s hard to believe how many items you can make yourself. While some make-it-yourself projects can be complex, most are quick and painless. Try a few and you might never go back to your ready-made “convenience” ways.
GEL PACK: This is great for small bumps or bruises. Mix three parts water and one part rubbing alcohol in a freezer bag. Seal and encase it in a second freezer bag. Place in the freezer. The more alcohol you use, the softer the pack will be. Wrap with a cloth before applying to skin. It’s more gentle and pliable than a hard ice pack.
photo by merelymel13 Revive Sunday dinners, and serve a hearty meal. While quick meals have their place, Sunday can be reserved as a day to bring everyone to the table. You don’t have to do the traditional Sunday roast to add a perfect end to the weekend. The following meal is simple enough that you [...]
photo by amazing podgirl Frugalitarians are disciplined consumers. While they might be tempted by savvy marketing, they don’t fall prey to it. I’ve discovered that I’m happy to admire merchandise without having to own it. I’m not anti-consumer, but I do believe in spending my money wisely. Today, my readers share their own frugal rules. [...]
photo by startcookingkathy DEAR SARA: I make bread in my bread machine frequently, but I can’t slice it thin enough to use as sandwich bread. I guess I just don’t know how to slice bread. Thanks for any help. — Tiffany, e-mail DEAR TIFFANY: I used an electric knife until I bought a decent serrated [...]
photo by calmenda If you hate climbing into a cold bed, you’ll like the first tip. It’s a great alternative to an electric blanket or a Snuggie. The only problem is that you’ll want more than one set. I recommend you do research before buying. They vary considerably in quality brand to brand. If your [...]
