Green Renovate Friday

This weeks Green Renovate is going to be a simple and cheap way to help you save resources (and some cash). It's something that anyone can do in their home.

Add a Water Limiting Aerator to all your faucets. These cheap inexpensive devices restrict the water flow to as much as .5 gallons a minute but believe it or not you won't notice the difference and they are very inexpensive.

These are a couple that are sold on Conservationmart.com

This one restircts water to 1.5 gallons a minute and costs $0.99

This one restricts water to .5 gallons per minute and costs $3.47

By mixing air into the water as it flows this little up grade will stop gallons of water from pouring down your drain. You save money since you will be using less water and energy and help the environment at the same time in the same way using less.

4 Day Work Week

Every now and then my Hubby will bring home a stray magazine. Usually something a co-worker has finished with and had an interesting article my Hubby wants to read. The other day he brought home a magazine called The Week. It's an interesting magazine with snippets of news usually a paragraph or two long with a few longer articles.

While I was checking it out I came across an article about Utah's State Government closing down on Fridays to save money. The workers work an extra 2 hours Monday - Thursday and have Friday off. The results.... 1.8 million in savings on their Electric bill, about 12,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide kept out of the air and a happier workforce.

What a wonderful idea! Give your employee less stress and more time with their families and save money ... Sounds good to me. Now granted this wouldn't work for every company. I don't think people would be to happy if you shut down the Mall. But parts of it could still work for everyone. If employers split their work force and gave half of them Friday off and Half of them Monday off they could still enjoy the benefits of a less stressed out, happier workforce. There would be less traffic twice a week which means safer roads and less carbon dioxide in the air. People would save money and use less gas.

Just a thought before I head out to work LOL.

Nature Saves the Day

My hubby brought me home a Discover magazine the other day. In it along with the Top 100 Science Stories of 2008 ( Like The Rise of Slime , Plants Inspire Better Solar Power and Fish Farming Threatens Wild Salmon) the was a wonderful article called The magic Forest: Where Poplars are Purifying the Planet.

In Argonne, Illinois they are using Poplar trees to clean up contaminated ground water. They train the roots, of these very thirst trees, to search deep in the earth for water. The trees then suck up the contaminated water and move it up their trunks to their leaves where in evaporates and the sunlight breaks down the chemicals and renders them harmless. In the summer one tree can move about 26 gallons of water and they have a whole forest of trees working to clean up the man made mess. So instead of using electricity to pump the contaminated water to a treatment plant the trees do the work powered by the sun making it doubly green.

Now if we could find such clean solutions for all our mistakes maybe we won't have to worry about global warming.

Layers Layers Layers

Well I broke down and did it. SHAME SHAME on me!

I drove the kids to school on the Thursday before Christmas! I had to it was FREEZING! Actually I drove my son to school I walked my daughter. She had to be at school first and my hubby was working at home that day so instead of taking my son and waiting in the cold I left him home with Mark and planned to come back and walk my son. That way he could stay where it was warm until it was time for school. By the time I got home from walking my daughter I was so cold it hurt. There was no way I was walking Billy in that, Samantha had on tights under her pants so she stayed pretty warm. But I don’t have anything for Billy to wear as a second layer to keep his legs warm and since I wasn’t wearing a second layer I knew he would be miserable. So, yes I warmed up the car and took him to school.

When it gets closer to New Years we are going to go out and get him some long johns. We are waiting until after Christmas because you would not believe the way some of the people drive around here. It’s a major nightmare at the mall there was actually some idiots driving over the curb to cut into the line of traffic. If they had just joined the line we all would have gotten home sooner but because they stopped traffic while they forced their way into the line it stopped traffic completely! There is no way I’m going to drive around with people like that on the roads in MASS numbers.

Now for a tip for all you facing that bitter windy cold. Layers are very important and not just for the top half. Billy was wearing a shirt, a hooded sweater, a hat and a coat. But only one layer on his legs, which is the same thing I had when I walked Sam to school. When that wind chill kicks up you need that extra layer on your legs to keep the cold out and the body heat in.

Burning Candles

I love burning candles, they are a wonderful way to make your house feel warm and snuggly and since I keep my theromstat at 66 degrees, they make the house feel a little warmer. Yes I know there isn't enough heat coming off them to actually warm up the house but just seeing them burning there makes me feel warmer.
I always try to get my candles when they're on sale usually right after Christmas. I want these candles to last as long as possible and still be able to burn them whenever I want. Here are some wonderful tips on how to make candles burn longer so you can enjoy them year-round.

One of the most often used tricks is to keep your candles in the refrigerator or freezer. Keeping them cold helps the wax burn slow and even. You will get many debates on which works better just chilling in the fridge or putting it in the freezer. I suggest trying it both ways and pick the one that works for you. (I use the freezer because I have more room in there and keeping your freezer full helps save money too)

Another tip is to trim your wick to about a quarter of an inch. The shorter wick will help the candle burn evenly and keep it from smoking and leaving a black film on your candleholder or ceiling and wall. You'll want to do this every time you burn the candle.

A friend has some very fancy pillar candles there are pictures on the outside that shine when you light the candle. She has extended the life of these candles by burning them down and then placing votive candles inside after she is one of candles of course. This allows her to enjoy her candles longer.

You also want to make sure that when you're lighting your candles you can burn them for at least four hours at a time the longer burning time allows the candle to burn evenly this is of course with your piller candles and not taper candles which the wax just drips down the side when you burn them.

Another tip I have heard is to light the candle and then when you get a pool of wax blowout the candle and mix table salt into the wax around the wicks. This is supposed to reduce the rate at which the candle burns I've not tried this trick myself if you have please let me know how works for you.

Now if you're like me and like having lots of candles burning at the same time this tip will help your matches last longer. I suppose you've heard the superstition that if you lite three cigarettes from the same match it's bad luck. One of the theories behind the superstition is that during World War I if three soldiers with their threats from the same match the third one would be killed. The belief is that the first person lits his cigarette and the enemy sees it. When you light the second cigarette with the same match the enemy takes aim and when the third soldier lits his cigarette with the same match the enemy would fire.

I don't know about the superstition but I can lite up to 10 candles on the same match and I'm going share my trick with you. Gather your candles around so that you have them close together. Like the first two or three candles and then blow out the match. When the first candle gets a small pool of wax around the base dip the burnt match into the wax, then relight it from the candle. Light a couple more candles than blowout the match. Then once again dip it in the liquid wax and then relight it. Continue this until you can no longer reuse the match or until all your candles are lit. This will allow you to use fewer matches which will save you a little money and ever little bit helps.

Getting Rid of LimeScale

You've seen the limescale built up on you teakettle and coffee pot. It's easy enough to get rid of just use vinegar.

For your teakettle:

Boil some vinegar in your kettle and this will remove the limescale. Remember to rinse it out thoroughly afterwards though, as the vinegar taste may end up flavoring your tea and coffee for some time to come

For your Coffee pot:

Fill the reservoir halfway with vinegar and the rest with water. Run the pot halfway through and turn off. After it cools off start it up and finish the cycle. Let it cool off and run it again with plain water. Repeat until vinegar smell is gone from the water.

This will give your tea kettle and coffee pot a longer life and help the heat up quickly using less electricity.

Save Trees Stop Junk Mail??? Sounds Good To Me

I found the most interesting service. It's Greendimes they will stop you junk mail and plant trees for you for $20.00. No more unwanted junk mail going into the landfill, plus 10 air cleaning trees planted for you. Go check it out.

TIPS FOR SALT USE

Everyone knows to add salt to food for flavor but did you know it has tons of other uses. I copied this list from The Salt Institute : http://www.saltinstitute.org/29.html and its amazing.

Consumer Tips for Salt Use
Besides making foods delicious, it's believed there are more than 14,000 uses of salt, and our grandmothers were probably familiar with most of them. Many of these uses were for simple things around the home before the advent of modern chemicals and cleaners. However, many uses are still valid today and a lot cheaper than using more sophisticated products.
We thought you might like to share some of these fascinating applications of salt.
We make no guarantee about the results if you try any of them, but there must be something to them since they have been handed down over the years in many households. Most of these uses have stood the test of time.
The most familiar use of salt undoubtedly is in the kitchen and on the dining table. Salt accents the flavor of meat, brings out individuality of vegetables, puts "oomph" into bland starches, deepens the flavor of delicate desserts and develops flavor of melons and certain other fruits. No other seasoning has yet been found that can satisfactorily take the place of salt.

But there are other uses around the home, too.

Salt is an excellent cleaning agent, by itself or in combination with other substances.
A solution of salt and turpentine restores the whiteness to yellowed enameled bathtubs and lavatories.
A paste of salt and vinegar cleans tarnished brass or copper.
A strong brine poured down the kitchen sink prevents grease from collecting and eliminates odors.
Salt helps destroy moths and drives away ants.
A dash of salt in laundry starch keeps the iron from sticking and gives linen and fine cottons a glossy, like-new finish.
A thin paste of salt and salad oil removes white marks caused by hot dishes or water from wooden tables.
A box of salt is an important item in many bathrooms. In mild solutions, it makes an excellent mouthwash, throat gargle or eye-wash; it is an effective dentifrice; it is an effective antiseptic; and it can be extremely helpful as a massage element to improve complexion.

We offer these other tips:

Kitchen (and, of course, don't forget salt IS used for food too! )
Boiling Water - Salt added to water makes the water boil at a higher temperature, thus reducing cooking time. (It does not make the water boil faster.)
Peeling eggs - Boiling eggs in salted water will make eggs peel easily.
Poaching eggs - Poaching eggs over salted water helps set the egg whites.
Testing egg freshness - Place the egg in a cup of water to which two teaspoonfuls of salt has been added. A fresh egg sinks; a doubter will float.
Preventing browning - Apples, pears and potatoes dropped in cold, lightly salted water as they are peeled will retain their color.
Shelling pecans - Soaking pecans in salt water for several hours before shelling will make nut meats easier to remove.
Washing spinach - If spinach is washed in salted water, repeated cleanings will not be necessary.
Preventing sugaring - A little salt added to cake icings prevents them from sugaring.
Crisping salads - Salting salads immediately before serving will keep them crisp.
Improving boiled potatoes - Boiled potatoes will be given a fine, mealy texture by sprinkling with salt after draining, then returning them to the pan and shaking them back and forth quickly to get rid of the excess moisture.
Cleaning greasy pans - The greasiest iron pan will wash easily if you put a little salt in it and wipe with paper.
Cleaning stained cups - Rubbing with salt will remove stubborn tea or coffee stains from cups.
Cleaning ovens - Salt and cinnamon take the "burned food" odor away from ovens and stove burners. Sprinkle spills while oven and burners are still hot; when dry, remove the salted spots with a stiff brush or cloth.
Cleaning refrigerators - Salt and soda water will clean and sweeten the inside of your refrigerator. It won't scratch enamel either.
Extinguishing grease fires - Salt tossed on a grease fire on the stove or in the oven will smother flames. Never use water; it will only spatter the burning grease.
Improving coffee - A pinch of salt in coffee will enhance the flavor and remove the bitterness of over-cooked coffee.
Improving poultry - To improve the flavor of poultry, rub the fowl inside and out with salt before roasting.
Removing pinfeathers - To remove pinfeathers easily from a chicken, rub the chicken skin with salt first.
Cleaning tarnished silverware - Rub tarnish with salt before washing.
Cleaning copper pans - Remove stains on copper pans by salting area and scouring with a cloth soaked in vinegar.
Cleaning coffee pots - Remove bitterness from percolators and other coffee pots by filling with water, adding four tablespoons of salt and percolating or boiling as usual.
Removing onion odors from hands - Rub fingers with salt moistened with vinegar.
"Sweetening" containers - Salt can "sweeten" and deodorize thermos bottles and jugs, decanters and other closed containers.
Cleaning sink drains - Pour a strong salt brine down the kitchen sink drain regularly to eliminate odors and keep grease from building up.
Brightening cutting boards - After washing them with soap and water, rub bread and cutting boards with a damp cloth dipped in salt; the boards will be lighter and brighter.

There are antiseptic reasons to use salt as well.

Fixing oversalted soups - If soup has been oversalted, cut up a raw potato or two and drop into the soup. The potato will absorb the salt.
Cleaning dried-on egg - Salt not only makes eggs taste better, but it makes "eggy" dishes clean easier. Sprinkle salt on dishes right after breakfast; it makes them a whiz to clean when you have time.
Preventing food from sticking - Rub a pancake griddle with a small bag of salt to prevent sticking and smoking. Sprinkle a little salt in the skillet before frying fish to prevent the fish from sticking. Sprinkle salt on washed skillets, waffle iron plates or griddles, heat in a warm oven, dust off salt; when they are next used, foods will not stick.
Preventing mold - To prevent mold on cheese, wrap it in a cloth dampened with saltwater before refrigerating.
Whipping cream and beating egg whites - By adding a pinch of salt, cream will whip better and egg whites will beat faster and higher.
Keeping milk fresh - Adding a pinch of salt to milk will keep it fresh longer.
Setting gelatin - To set gelatin salads and desserts quickly, place over ice that has been sprinkled with salt.

Cleaning

Cleaning brass - Mix equal parts of salt, flour and vinegar to make a paste, rub the paste on the brass item, leave on for an hour or so, then clean with a soft cloth or brush and buff with a dry cloth.
Cleaning wicker - To prevent yellowing, scrub wicker furniture with a stiff brush moistened with warm saltwater and allow to dry in the sun.
Cleaning grease spots on rugs - Some grease spots can be removed with a solution of one part salt and four parts alcohol and rubbing hard but carefully to avoid damage to the nap.
Extending broom life - New brooms will wear longer if soaked in hot saltwater before they are first used.
Removing wine stains - If wine is spilled on a tablecloth or rug, blot up as much as possible and immediately cover the wine with salt, which will absorb the remaining wine. Later rinse the tablecloth with cold water; scrape up the salt from the rug and then vacuum the spot.
Removing rings from tables - White rings left on tables from wet or hot dishes or glasses can be removed by rubbing a thin paste of salad oil and salt on the spot with your fingers, letting it stand an hour or two, then wiping it off.
Restoring sponges - Give sponges new life by soaking them in cold saltwater after they are washed.
Settling suds - If a washing machine bubbles over from too many suds, sprinkle salt on the suds to reduce them.
Brightening colors - Wash colored curtains or washable fiber rugs in a saltwater solution to brighten the colors. Brighten faded rugs and carpets by rubbing them briskly with a cloth that has been dipped in a strong saltwater solution and wrung out.
Removing perspiration stains - Add four tablespoons of salt to one quart of hot water and sponge the fabric with the solution until stains disappear.
Brightening yellowed cottons or linens - Boil the yellowed items for one hour in a salt and baking soda solution
Removing blood stains - Soak the stained clothing or other cloth item in cold saltwater, then launder in warm, soapy water and boil after the wash. (Use only on cotton, linen or other natural fibers that can take high heat.)
Removing mildew or rust stains - Moisten stained spots with a mixture of lemon juice and salt, then spread the item in the sun for bleaching; and finally, rinse and dry.
Color-matching nylons - Good nylons that don't have a match can be made the same color by boiling them a few minutes in a pan of lightly salted water.
Fixing sticking iron - Sprinkle a little salt on a piece of paper and run the hot iron over it to remove rough, sticky spots.
Removing "salt stains" from carpets - "Salt" stains are usually caused by calcium chloride and magnesium chloride, not sodium chloride, caccording to the Carpet and Rug Institute. Rock salt has small amounts of both of these salts imbedded in it. The problem comes with solubility. Patience and lots of rinse cycles are the key and sometimes calcium carbonate forms and this is fairly insoluble. Try to vacuum most of the dry residue off before using cool to warm water and a very small amount of carpet shampoo. Once the cleaning solution has been applied, allow time for it to dissolve the deposit. Blot, do not scrub, the spot. Sodium chloride is more soluble at lower temps than at higher ones. Then rinse with clear lukewarm water, blotting up the excess moisture and follow with another water rinse and blot dry. This should work. If not, try a cleaning mixture of 1/2 white vinegar to 1/2 lukewarm water, allow to stand 15 minutes and rinse with clear water.

Health & Beauty

Gargling - Stir 1/2 teaspoon salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water for use as a gargle for sore throats.
Cleaning teeth - Mix one part salt to two parts baking soda after pulverizing the salt in a blender or rolling it on a kitchen board with a tumbler before mixing. It whitens teeth, helps remove plaque and it is healthy for the gums.
Washing mouth - Mix equal parts of salt and baking soda as a mouth wash that sweetens the breath.
Bathing eyes - Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a pint of water and use the solution to bathe tired eyes.
Reducing eye puffiness - Mix one teaspoon of salt in a pint of hot water and apply pads soaked in the solution on the puffy areas.
Relieving tired feet - Soak aching feet in warm water to which a handful of salt has been added. Rinse in cool water.
Relieving bee stings - If stung, immediately wet the spot and cover with salt to relieve the pain.
Treating mosquito and chigger bites - Soak in saltwater, then apply a mixture of lard and salt.
Treating poison ivy - Soaking the exposed part in hot saltwater helps hasten the end to poison ivy irritation.
Relieving fatigue - Soak relaxed for at least ten minutes in a tub of water into which several handfuls of salt has been placed. Removing dry skin - After bathing and while still wet give yourself a massage with dry salt. It removes dead skin particles and aids the circulation.
Making a salt glow scrub
Applying facial - For a stimulating facial, mix equal parts of salt and olive oil and gently massage the face and throat with long upward and inward strokes. Remove mixture after five minutes and wash face.
Removing tattoos -CAUTION-This is a medical procedure that can be done only by a physician. It is called salabrasion and requires several treatments by rubbing salt on the tattoo. Healing is required between treatments, but there is virtually no scarring.
Treating varicose veins - CAUTION-This is another medical procedure called sclerotheraphy and is done by injecting a saline solution into the vein.
Many commercial sites sell specialty bath salts designed for health and beauty, for example.

Other Uses

Extinguishing grease fires - Keep a box of salt handy at your stove and oven and if a grease fire flares up, cover the flames with salt. Do not use water on grease fires; it will splatter the burning grease. Also a handful of salt thrown on flames from meat dripping in barbecue grills will reduce the flames and deaden the smoke without cooling the coals as water does.
Drip-proofing candles - Soak new candles in a strong salt solution for a few hours, then dry them well. When burned they will not drip.
Removing soot - Occasionally throw a handful of salt on the flames in your fireplace; it will help loosen soot from the chimney and salt makes a bright yellow flame.
Cleaning fish tanks - Rub the inside of fish tanks with salt to remove hard water deposits, then rinse well before returning the fish to the tank. Use only plain, not iodized, salt.
Invigorating goldfish - Occasionally add one teaspoon of salt to a quart of fresh water at room temperature and put your goldfish in for about 15 minutes. Then return them to their tank. The salt swim makes them healthier.
Cleaning flower vases - To remove deposits caused by flowers and water, rub with salt; if you cannot reach the deposits to rub them, put a strong salt solution in the vase and shake, then wash the vase with soap and water.
Keeping cut flowers fresh - A dash of salt added to the water in a flower vase will keep cut flowers fresh longer.
Holding artificial flowers - Artificial flowers can be held in an artistic arrangement by pouring salt into the container, adding a little cold water and then arranging the flowers. The salt will solidify as it dries and hold the flowers in place.
Keeping patios weed-free - If weeds or unwanted grass come up between patio bricks or blocks, carefully spread salt between the bricks and blocks, then sprinkle with water or wait for rain to wet it down.
Killing poison ivy - Mix three pounds of salt with a gallon of soapy water and apply to leaves and stems with a sprayer.
Keeping windows frost-free - Rub the inside of windows with a sponge dipped in a saltwater solution and rub dry; the windows will not frost up in sub-freezing weather. Rubbing a small cloth bag containing salt that has been moistened on your car's windshield will keep snow and ice from collecting.
Deicing sidewalks and driveways - Lightly sprinkling rock salt on walks and driveways will keep snow and ice from bonding to the pavement and allow for easy removal. Don't overdo it; use the salt sensibly to avoid damage to grass and ornamentals.
Deodorizing shoes - Sprinkling a little salt in canvas shoes occasionally will take up the moisture and help remove odors.

Trash To Treasure

My son is in boyscouts and for one of his awards he has to grow some plants. Now everyone knows it's winter in most places and here is no execption. So whats a mom to do?

Well if she is smart and just a little bit lucky she can turn a piece of garbage into a mini green house.

The piece of Garbage is a store cupcake container that someone threw on the ground. It has twelve cups and is clear.First fill the cups with some potting soil. (use potting soil not dirt from the back yard its lighter weight and won't have any unidentified seeds in it.)

Then place some seeds (my son chose pumpkin) in the cups and cover them with dirt.

Sprinkle then with water until the dirt is damp.

Then close the clear plastic lid and set in a sunny window. TA DA Instant green house.

I'll post an update on the pumpkins after they start growning.

10 More Tips : PETS

Todays tips are all pet based. We Love our furry friends but that doesn't mean they have to put us in the poor house.

1. Save empty film canisters and fill with a small object for a great cat toy.
2. A plastic milk container with the end cut off makes a good scoop for food or cat litter.
3. Check your local thrift store for interesting containers for your betta fish.
4. Keep your dog warm on walks by taking one of your old sweaters cut off the sleeves. If needed cut holes for the back legs (depending on the size of your dog).
5. Grow and dry your own catnip. This is not as hard as it sounds. Plant some seeds in a container (where the cat can't get to it) or in your yard. Once it has grown up Clip and tie the stems togther then hang upside down in a warm dry place.
6. Know where your pets are: Dogs should be kept in a fenced yard or on a dog leash. And cats should be kept indoors. Some of you may view this as mean to your pets but what is more cruel Letting your pets run free -getting hit by cars or torn up by other animals. Or Knowing where your pet is at all times. By the way pet cats are the one of the reason for the decline of songbird populations. They hunt them even though you feed them well! If that is not enough to convince you. Just think of the money your save on vet bills
7. Consider adopting a pet from the local animal shelter rather than purchasing from a pet store or breeder. They will be much less expensive and you are saving an animal's life in the process.
8. Check Yard sales and thrift store for pet bowls, beds, bird cages, cat climbing towers ect. Sad but true these things often out live their owners and need a new home.
9. Always feed your pet the right amount of food. Overfeeding pets costs extra in terms of money for food, health and vet costs.
10. Check your library for a book on proper grooming for your breed and do it yourself and when giving your dog a bath, Invest in one of those cheep rubber strainers that go in the drain to keep the hair out and clog free.
    
    

Yes these are my best friends. The keep me happy and healthy and sane.

Yard Tip

Lets Face it we all like to have a nice yard to sit around in and talk with our friends and loved ones. Watching the kids try to catch Fireflys or Grasshoppers. But equipment to keep your yard looking its best can be expensive and takes up a lot of room in the Garage or shed. Not to mention that we only need them once in a while not everyday.

What to do What to do?

Why not start a neighborhood Co-op for yard equipment. Each neighbor can buy 1 item and share it with the others. In this way you only have to care and store one piece of equipment but get the use of several different items. Imagine being able to get ahold of Tillers, pruners, trimmers, chainsaws maybe a riding mower with out having to store it all in your house. Think of the money and space you will save. Not to mention the environmental resources that are not rusting away in each individual garage waiting for the 1 or 2 times a year it might be needed.

10 Ways to Reuse and Recycle

There are so many ways to reuse so many different items I could probably spend all day writing about them. But lets face it who wants to sit and read extremely longs lists of stuff not to mention how much of it are you going to remember and use. Well I decided to post smaller lists that are quick to read. You can select the ones you want to try. Sound Good? Great here is my first list:

1. Sandwich bags can be washed out and reused several times before you have to throw them away. I try to select good quality ones so they last longer. They may be slightly more expensive but they pay for themselves in reuse.


2. Pantyhose can be reused in several ways: make into a nonscratch scrubber by tying into a ball. They are gentle enough to tie tomato plants to their support stakes. Uses pieces to make a Sachet for drawers just fill with dried flowers or ceder chips (to repel moths) then hot glue or tie shut. My husband uses an old pair to buff his shoes with.


3. Old Cotton clothes that you know longer wear can be used for dusting or in the garage for clean up.


4. Plastic milk containers can be use to make funnels, bird feeders (cut a hole in the side, fill with seed and hang from handle) a container for your toilet brush (cut half of it off leaving the handle on for easy carrying)


5. Wire Hangers: (check to see if your drycleaner can reuse them some offer a discount for returning hangers) They can be used to make Giant bubbles (bend into a circle and straighten hook for handle dip in bubble solution and wave.) Hot dog and marshmallow roaster. Uses as a frame for Wreaths just bend into desired shape and decorate.


6. Newspapers: Shred the colored ads and use to fill easter baskets instead of plastic grass. Use the Comics and wrap presents, Use them to get streak free windows and mirrors instead of paper towels. If you want fruit to ripen quickly, wrap it in newspaper. Check back after it has been wrapped for a day. If plastic food canisters are retaining odors, place wadded newspaper in the canister and seal. The newspaper will absorb the odors.


7. Baby Food Jars. My Husband uses these in his workroom he fastens the lids under one of the shelves fills the jar with whatever screw or nail he wants the screws it onto the lid. It provides out of the way storage space. Make your own snow globes. Unscrew the top (which becomes the bottom and glue to it any seasonal item (little pumpkins for fall, little flag for 4th of July, etc). Add some glitter and then fill with water. Close it tightly and flip over so the top becomes the base. You can even hot glue it closed to ensure no leaking. Trim the bottom with ribbons or lace if desired. Makes a great kid's craft for friends, teachers, and grandparents!!! Use them as spice jars by fastening the lids under the cupboard and use the same way as my hubby did in his workroom.


8. Old Yellow Pages (a friend gave me this one for my art happy daughter) Use for a gluing or painting surface when dirty just tear off the top page for a clean surface.


9. Paper Bags open up and use to cool cookies on. use as a place mat for kids (they can color on them while they wait) I open them up and use them in the garden under the mulch to keep weeds at bay. Let you kids make masks or giant puppets out of them.


10. Plastic Bags store shoes in them to keep dust off between uses, when packing for a trip take some alone to use them to seperate dirty stuff from clean stuff or store items that might leak in them, protect small outdoor plants from frost by placing the bag over the plant and tie at the bottom then remove in the morning. Use them for cushioning when packing for a move or sending a present.

Homemade Dry Carpet Cleaner

I don't remember where I got this recipe but I love it and wanted to share

2 C Baking Soda
1/3 C Cornstarch
5 bay leaves (crumbled)
1 TBLS Ground Cloves
Mix ingredients together and sprinkle liberally all over the carpet and leave on overnight. The next day vacuum up. Close the doors to the rooms that you are cleaning so pets or kids don't get on the carpet.

Enjoy :)


P.S. did you know you could get rid of winter static by mixing 1/2 c liquid fabric softener with 1 qt water. Put in a spray bottle then spray on the area where you want to eliminate static and let dry. It will remain static free for several months

More Spring Cleaning

Don't throw away those old pantyhose or nylon stockings. They work wonders to clean the sink or bathtub. Just roll the stockings into a ball and tie the ends together. Now you have a scrubbing pad that won't scratch. Best of all when your done cleaning just throw it into the wash and they are ready for the next cleaning project.





This also works with the mesh bags that onions come in. Just fold the bag until its the size you want and tie it with a piece of twine or dental floss and scrub away. Great for pots and pans or a veggie scrubber.

More Spring Cleaning

Spring is on its way and yes I know it's early yet but If I wait till Spring to talk about it then it's too late because you'll already be busy cleaning.

When you are moving stuff around don't forget to get the refrigerator. It is very important to clean your refrigerator coils because dirty coils won't cool foods properly. Dirty coils will also make the fridge work much harder and use more electricity.

To Clean the coils, remove the louvered base grill or kick plate on the bottom of your refrigerator. Now coils are usually pretty hard to get to some vaccums come with an attachment to help with this. If you don't have one try this little trick. Take a yardstick and attach an old sock (one that lost it's mate in the dryer perhaps ) to the end with a rubber band. Use the yard stick to wipe the dirt and grime off the coils. If you don't find the coils under the front of your fridge then they are in the back. You will need to pull the fridge away from the wall (get someone to help you to avoid injury).

MUFFINS MUFFINS MUFFINS

OH What a tasty morning treat. They are also a great way to save time, money and help the environment.
Lets face it we don’t have time every morning to sit down to a hot homemade breakfast………or do we!
Pull out the muffin pans ladies have I got some recipes for you and the best thing is if you double up the batches you can freeze the second batch to have later when your in a hurry. Just pop them in the microwave and tada instant homemade hot breakfast. You can also toss one in your or your children’s lunch boxes they will be thawed our by lunchtime.
Oh and how does this help the environment well that’s easy: Less packaging and no fast food wrappers (I also reuse my freezer bags for the same type of muffins just rinse with soapy water let dry and pop some more muffins in)

BANANA MUFFINS
Makes 9

3 Ripe banana’s cut into pieces or smashed
½ c honey
¼ c butter cut into pieces
1 egg
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla (use real vanilla not the fake stuff it tastes better and is better for the environment)
1 ½ c whole wheat flour
2 tsp. baking powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray muffin pan with not stick spray.
Mix bananas, honey, egg and extract together. Add flour and baking powder and mix together.
Spoon batter into the muffin pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Let sit for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Serve or let cool completely before freezing.

RAISIN OAT MUFFIN
Makes 12

2 c Rolled oats
1 C whole wheat flour
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon
1 Tbls. Baking Powder
1/3 C water
1 Egg
½ C extra virgin Olive Oil
½ C Maple Syrup (use real maple syrup its more expensive but the taste is worth it )
½ C Walnuts and ½ C Rasins

Preheat oven to 350 and spray muffin pan with Nonstick Cooking spray. Pour oats into a food processor (or blender in small amounts) and cut into small pieces. Mix Oats, flour, salt, cinnamon and baking powder together. Add the water and egg and mix well. Next Add the oil and syrup and mix. Last add the walnuts and raisins stir until completely mixed together.
Spoon batter into the muffin pans and bake for 20 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Let sit for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Serve or let cool completely before freezing.

APPLE OATMEAL AND COCONUT MUFFINS
Makes 12

2 C chopped Apples
1 C rolled oats
1 C low-fat plain Yogurt
2/3 c Honey
1/3 C Shredded Unsweetened Coconut
1/3 c Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Egg
1 ½ C Whole Wheat Flour
2 tsp. Baking Flour
2 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon
¼ Tsp. ground cloves

Preheat oven to 375 and spray muffin pan with Nonstick Cooking spray. Combine Apples, oats, yogurt, honey, coconut and oil together and mix well. Let sit 5 Minutes. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
In another bowl sift the flour, baking powder and spices together then add to the oat mixture and stir until the dry ingredients are moistened.
Fill the muffin cups until they are quite full. bake for 25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Let sit for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Serve or let cool completely before freezing.

SQUASH CORN MUFFINS
Makes 12

¾ C Corn Meal
¾ C Whole Wheat Flour
½ C All- Purpose Flour
2 ½ Tbls Dry Buttermilk Powder
1 Tbls Baking Powder
½ tsp Salt
½ Tsp Ground Cinnamon
¼ Tsp Ground Cloves
2/3 Cup light Brown Sugar
¼ C Butter cut in pieces
2 Eggs
2 Tbls Honey
¾ C Pureed Cooked Squash (or pumpkin)
2/3 C water

Preheat oven to 350 and spray muffin pan with Nonstick Cooking spray. In a large bowl mix cornmeal, both flours, buttermilk powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cloves mix well.
Place the sugar butter eggs and honey in mixer and blend until smooth. Add the squash and water and mix well. Add the squash mixture to the flour mixture and mix well.
Spoon batter into the muffin pans and bake for 20 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Let sit for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Serve or let cool completely before freezing.

ORANGE CARROT MUFFINS
Makes 12

1 C Grated Carrots
1 Banana, mashed
½ Cut up Prunes or Raisins
2 Eggs
1/3 C Honey
1 Cup orange juice
1 Tsp. orange extract
2 Cups Whole Wheat flour
¼ Cup Oat Bran
2 Tsp Baking Powder

Preheat oven to 375 and spray muffin pan with Nonstick Cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, place the grated carrots, banana, and prunes and mix well. Then add the eggs, oil and honey and mix. Add the juice and orange extract and mix well.
In a separate bowl the flour oat bran and baking powder and mix well. Then add it to the carrot mixture and blend until dry ingredients are moistened.
Spoon batter into the muffin pans and bake for 25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Let sit for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Serve or let cool completely before freezing.

Spring Cleaning

Yes that time of year is coming up fast. Time to throw open the windows and get rid of that stale winter air in the house. It's also a great time while you have those windows open to get rid of the dust, mold, mildew, and other assorted nastys that build up. You know where in those spots where you just don't look. Behind the TV, Under the couch, those window ledges and to help you get started here is a few Friendly Recipies to get your house clean and shining. There will be more to come so check back.

All-Purpose Cleaner

1. 1/2 cup Vinegar
2. 1 Cup clear ammonia
3. 1/4 cup baking soda
4. 1 gallon warm water

Mix together the ingredients; pour some into a spray bottle. Use this like Fantastic or 409.

Heavy-Duty Cleaner

1. 1 Cup Baking Soda
2. 1 gallon very warm water
3. 1 cup vinegar
4. 1 cup clear ammonia
5. 1 Tbls Hand-dishwashing soap

Dissolve the baking soda into the very warm water in a bucket. Add the vinegar, ammonia and liquid soap. Mix the ingredients well. Wear rubber gloves and clean in a well-ventilated area. Rinse with clean water.

Toilet Cleaner

1. 1/4 cup Baking Soda
2. 1/4 Cup liquid detergent
3. 1/4 cup warm water

Mix together the ingredients. Use a toilet brush to apply the cleaner inside the bowl.

Glass Cleaner

1. 2 Cups water
2. 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol
3. 1 Tbls ammonia

Mix the water, alcohol and ammonia together. Pour the misture into an empyt spray bottle or if cleaning outside put in a bucket and clean windows with car squeegie that has a sponge on one side.

Laundry Stain Remover

1. 1/2 cup ammonia
2. 1/2 cup white vinegar
3. 1/4 cup baking soda
4. 2 TBLS liquid soap
5. 2 Quarts Water

Mix all ingredients together and pour into a spray bottle. Shake well then spray the solution on the stains. Let it soak for a few minutes before washing as usual. Shake before each use.

Lemons Lemons Lemons

After seeing a post on http://www.cafemom.com/ about alternative cleaning products I added a post about Lemons. Lemons are a great cleaning tool (why do you think so many products have lemon in them) Here is my List of uses for lemons when I find some more I'll add them.

1. Lemons Lemons are acidic and can provide some antibacterial and antiseptic properties for cleaning.Adding lemon juice to vinegar when cleaning can help neutralize the vinegar smell.
2. Clean copper-bottomed pots and pans with lemon juice. Copper fixtures can also benefit from a lemon juice cleaning. Cut a lemon in half. Dip it in some salt, and clean spots from your copper.
3. Use a half lemon to clean the lime scale off a sink or faucet. Rub the cut end over the lime spot.
4. Use lemon to freshen the air by making a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and water and putting it in a spray bottle.
5. Countertop stains can be removed by allowing lemon juice to sit on the stain for a few minutes. Scrub the area with baking soda and watch the stains disappear. Don't leave it sit for too long.
6. Lemon rinds can be ground in the garbage disposal to freshen the drain. Hot water with a little lemon poured down a drain will also freshen the drain.(I put lemons slices in my water then when I finish my water I put the lemons down the desposal. )
7. Lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent. Put lemon juice onto white linens and clothing and allow them to dry in the sun. Stains will be bleached away.

Clean with Vinegar

Getting your home clean with vinegar is a great way to keep caustic chemicals out of your house and saving money. For less then one of those chemical cleaners you can buy a giant bottle of vinegar and it has so many uses. This list was posted on http://www.cafemom.com/ by a wonderfully helpful lady Jamie8506. She found the list at http://www.vinegartips.com/cleaning/ and good things are worth sharing so I'm posting it here.

81 Things to do with Vinegar

1. To shine chrome sink fixtures that have a lime buildup, use a paste made of 2 tablespoons salt and 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar.
2. Make your own scouring cleanser by combining 1/4 cup baking soda with 1 tablespoon liquid detergent. Add just enough white distilled vinegar to give it a thick but creamy texture.
   
3. Clean counter tops and make them smell sweet again with a cloth soaked in undiluted white distilled vinegar.
   
4. Clean and deodorize a drain by pouring in 1 cup baking soda, then one cup hot white distilled vinegar. Let this sit for 5 minutes or so then run hot water down the drain.
   
5. Deodorize the garbage disposal by pouring in 1/2 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup hot white distilled vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes then run hot water down the disposal.
   
6. Deodorize and clean the garbage disposal with white distilled vinegar ice cubes. Make them by freezing full-strength white distilled vinegar in an ice cube tray. Run several cubes down the disposal while flushing with cold water.
   
7. Clean the microwave by mixing 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar and 1/2 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Bring it to a rolling boil inside the microwave. Baked-on food will be loosened, and odors will disappear. Wipe clean.
   
8. Clean the shelves and walls of the refrigerator with a half-and-half solution of water and white distilled vinegar.
   
9. Cut the grime on the top of the refrigerator with a paper towel or cloth and full-strength white distilled vinegar.
   
10. Avoid the bad smell when you heat up a newly cleaned oven by using a sponge soaked in diluted white distilled vinegar for the final rinse.
    
11. To clean a grease splattered oven door window, saturate it with full-strength white distilled vinegar. Keep the door open for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping with a sponge.
    
12. Remove soap buildup and odors from the dishwasher by pouring a cup of white distilled vinegar inside the empty machine and running it through a whole cycle. Do monthly.
    
13. To prevent good glassware from getting etched by minerals, wash then spray with full-strength white distilled vinegar. Give the glasses a hot water rinse before letting them dry or drying them with a towel.
    
14. For cloudy glassware, soak paper towels or a cloth in full-strength white distilled vinegar and wrap around the inside and outside of the glass. Let sit awhile before rinsing clean.
    
15. Get rid of lime deposits in a tea kettle by adding 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar to the water and letting it sit overnight. If more drastic action is needed, boil full-strength white distilled vinegar in the kettle a few minutes, let cool and rinse with plain water.
    
16. Remove mineral deposits from coffee makers with white distilled vinegar. Fill the water reservoir with 1 cup or more of white distilled vinegar and run it through a whole cycle. Run it once or twice more with plain water to rinse clean. (Check the owners’ manual first.
17. Remove stains from coffee and teacups by scrubbing them gently with equal parts of salt (or baking soda) and white distilled vinegar. Rinse clean.
    
18. For stained and smelly plastic food containers, wipe them with a cloth dampened with white distilled vinegar.
    
19. Remove odors from a lunch box by placing inside a slice of bread that has been soaked in white distilled vinegar. Leave overnight.
    
20. Remove ugly film in narrow-necked glass jars, flower vases, and bottles by letting undiluted white distilled vinegar sit in them for a few hours. Add a little rice or sand and shake vigorously to loosen stubborn stains. Repeat if necessary.
    
21. To clean tarnished brass, copper, and pewter, use a paste with equal amounts of white distilled vinegar and table salt.
    
22. Make a metal cleanser by adding enough white distilled vinegar to 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar to make a paste. Rub it on and let it dry on the surface. Wash it off and dry with a soft cloth.
    
23. Polish brass and copper with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of ketchup and 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar. Rub it on with a clean cloth until dry and shiny.
    
24. Remove dark stains on an aluminum pot by boiling a mixture of 1 cup white distilled vinegar and 1 cup hot water.
    
25. Discourage ants by spraying undiluted white distilled vinegar outside doorways and windowsills, around appliances and wherever you find the pests coming in.
    
26. Get rid of fruit flies by setting out a small dish of undiluted white distilled vinegar.
    
27. Clean the wheel of a can opener using white distilled vinegar and an old toothbrush.
    
28. Remove the smell of spoiled food from a refrigerator by first rinsing the area with soap and water. Spray surfaces with full-strength white distilled vinegar and wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge. Fill some containers with baking soda and place inside. Close the door and leave for a few days.
    
29. Wipe grease off exhaust fan grids, the inside of your oven, or anywhere grease gathers with a sponge soaked in white distilled vinegar.
    
30. To make cleaning the grill easier, spray a solution of half water and half white distilled vinegar on the cooking surface.
    
31. To remove a label, decal, or price tag, cover with a cloth soaked in white distilled vinegar. Leave the cloth on overnight and the label should slide off.
    
32. Renew sponges and dishrags by placing them in just enough water to cover them. Then add 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar. Let them soak overnight.
    
33. Get rid of calcium deposits on faucets by soaking a cloth or paper towel in white distilled vinegar and wrapping the area tightly. Let this sit for a couple of hours or overnight.
    
34. Remove soap buildup from faucets by scrubbing them with a solution of 1 part salt to 4 parts white distilled vinegar.
    
35. Rid a faucet of lime deposits by tying a plastic bag containing 1/2 to 1/3 cup of white distilled vinegar around it and leaving it there for two or three hours. If mineral deposits don’t wipe off, scrubbing with an old toothbrush should complete the job.
    
36. Shine colored porcelain sinks by scouring them with undiluted white distilled vinegar.
    
37. Rinse away soapy film on countertops with a solution of white distilled vinegar and water.
    
38. Clean grout by letting full-strength white distilled vinegar sit on it for a few minutes and scrubbing it with an old toothbrush.
    
39. Kill germs all around the bathroom with a spray of full-strength white distilled vinegar. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
    
40. To remove grime, mildew, and scum from the tub, tile, shower curtain or door, wipe with undiluted white distilled vinegar. Rinse with water.
    
41. Spray shower doors with full-strength white distilled vinegar after you’ve squeegeed the glass, or before you step in and turn on the water. It will help release the hard water deposits so they don’t remain on the glass.
    
42. Mix up an inexpensive tile cleaner by adding 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 cup white distilled vinegar, and 1 cup ammonia to a gallon of warm water.
    
43. Get rid of stubborn bathtub film by wiping it with white distilled vinegar and then scouring with baking soda.
    
44. Soak a sponge or loofah overnight in a strong white distilled vinegar and water solution to remove dirt and slime. Rinse several times with cold water and let air dry (in the sun if possible).
    
45. Clean shower door tracks by filling them with white distilled vinegar and letting it sit for a few hours. Pour hot water into the tracks and wash and scrub away the scum with a toothbrush.
    
46. To clean a scummy showerhead, pour 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 cup white distilled vinegar into a sandwich bag and tie it around the showerhead. Let this set for an hour after the bubbling has stopped. Remove the bag and then turn on the water.
    
47. Deodorize the toilet bowl by allowing 3 cups white distilled vinegar to sit in it for about a half hour before flushing.
    
48. To make the toilet bowl sparkle, pour in a cup or more of diluted white distilled vinegar and let it sit several hours or overnight. Scrub well with the toilet brush and flush.
    
49. Freshen air in the bathroom by spraying into the air a solution of 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar, and 1 cup water.
    
50. Get a shining finish on a no-wax vinyl or linoleum floor by cleaning it with a solution of one cup white distilled vinegar for every gallon of water.
    
51. Apply full-strength white distilled vinegar directly to tough linoleum stains. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping it up. If that doesn’t work, apply white distilled vinegar again and then sprinkle some baking soda over the white distilled vinegar. Scrub the area with a brush or sponge. Rinse clean with water.
    
52. For an economical and environmentally friendly floor cleaner, mix a solution of 3 drops dishwashing liquid to 1/3 part white distilled vinegar, 1/3 part alcohol, and 1/3 part water. Spray sparingly and mop for a fast clean-up.
    
53. Some carpet stains can be removed with a paste of 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar and 1/4 cup salt or baking soda. Rub into the carpet stain and let dry. Vacuum up the residue the next day. (Always test on an out-of-sight part of the carpet first).
    
54. Bring out the color in carpet by brushing it with a solution of 1 cup white distilled vinegar for every gallon of water. (Always test on an out-of-sight part of the carpet beforehand).
    
55. To reduce soap bubbles in a steam cleaner add about 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar. Use the same amount in the rinse water to remove detergent residue and make carpets stay fresh longer.
    
56. Wash indoor/outdoor carpet with a solution of 1 cup white distilled vinegar in 1 bucket of warm water. Scrub using a brush or a broom and then hose off.
    
57. Clean up pet accidents by first blotting up the area and then adding a white distilled vinegar-and-water solution. Blot until it is almost dry. Then sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it dry. Vacuum up the residue the next day.
    
58. Create your own window cleaning solution by combining 1/2 cup non-sudsy ammonia, 1 cup white distilled vinegar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a gallon of water.
    
59. Remove the wax residue left by commercial window cleaners with a solution of 2 cups water, 1 cup white distilled vinegar and 1 teaspoon of liquid soap or detergent.
    
60. To remove paint from windows try using undiluted, hot white distilled vinegar. Give the solution time to soften the paint before removing with a razor edge tool.
    
61. To remove paint splatters from windows apply full-strength white distilled vinegar with a clean paintbrush.
    
62. Get rid of mildew, dust, and stale odors by wiping down walls with undiluted white distilled vinegar on a cloth or a sponge mop.
    
63. Clean woodwork and walls with a mixture of 1 cup white distilled vinegar, 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup ammonia and 1 gallon warm water. Wipe on with a sponge or damp—not wet—towel.
    
64. Clean wood paneling with a solution of 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar, and 2 cups warm water. Wipe on with a soft cloth.
    
65. Remove wallpaper easily by using a paint roller to wet the surface very thoroughly with a solution of equal parts white distilled vinegar and hot water. Or spray on until saturated.
    
66. Get decals off walls or doors by letting undiluted white distilled vinegar soak into them for several minutes before trying to peel them off. Repeat if necessary.
    
67. Remove white water rings from wood with a solution of equal parts white distilled vinegar and vegetable oil. Rub with the grain.
    
68. Remove fireplace soot and grime with undiluted white distilled vinegar. Use a brush to scrub and a towel to blot up the wetness and dirt.
    
69. Clean fireplace glass doors with a solution of 1 part white distilled vinegar to 2 parts water. Spray or wipe on, then wipe clean with a dry cloth.
    
70. To kill germs, spray full-strength white distilled vinegar on doorknobs and then wipe them dry.
    
71. Remove the smell of a dead mouse or other rodent (after removing all animal remnants) by wiping down the area with either white distilled vinegar or bleach. Then place a fabric softener sheet in the area to remove any lingering odors.
    
72. Never use white distilled vinegar on marble. The acid can damage the surface.
    Before painting old concrete, clean with full-strength white distilled vinegar. Let it air dry.
    
73. Clean hardened paint brushes by simmering them in a pot with white distilled vinegar. Soak them first for an hour before bringing the white distilled vinegar to a simmer. Drain and rinse clean.
    
74. Remove mud and stains from plastic, fiberglass, or aluminum sports equipment by applying a paste of 1 part white distilled vinegar to 3 parts baking soda. Wipe off with soapy water and rinse with clear water.
    
75. Clean your grill by spritzing white distilled vinegar over wadded up aluminum foil and scrubbing the grill vigorously with it.
    
76. To remove film in glass baby bottles, fill with equal parts hot water and white distilled vinegar. Let sit for at least an hour. Scrub with a bottle brush.
    
77. To clean and disinfect baby toys add a good-sized splash of white distilled vinegar to soapy water.
    
78. Clean vinyl baby books or board books by wiping with white distilled vinegar. Wipe clean with a damp sponge or cloth.
    
79. Clean scissors that have become sticky (after cutting tape, for instance) with a cloth dipped in undiluted white distilled vinegar.
    
80. Clean and deodorize urine on a mattress with a white distilled vinegar and water solution. Then sprinkle the area with baking soda and let dry. Brush or vacuum the residue after it is dry to the touch.
    
81. Shine pennies by soaking them for a couple of hours or overnight in a glass or bowl of undiluted white distilled vinegar.
    

Valentines Day

Valentines day is on it's way. It's time to start buying up the candy cards and flowers and shower your loved ones will all your high priced goods.....................NOT.

Good heavens how the holidays have become commercial all of them. Well it's time to put our cash back into our bank accounts and not into the merchant's. Here are some wonderful gift and card ideas (for the little ones school chums) to show your love and keep more of your cash to yourself.

Home baked goodies are always a treat they show a lot more love then a box of cheap chocolate or chalky candy. Want a Valentines theme try a Cherry or Strawberry rhubarb pie or heart shaped sugar cookies frosted with Cranberry Frosting.

Cranberry Frosting
3/4 cup Butter
1/4 cup shortening
1/2 cup Cranberry juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
2 lbs confectioners' sugar (powdered sugar)
Place butter, shortening, juice, vanilla, salt and one pound of sugar in large bowl.
Beat at low speed until combined.
Gradually add the other pound of sugar.
Stop and scrape sides.
Beat on high until mixture is light and fluffy.
Keep covered with plastic wrap to prevent crusting.

Hey Husbands do you really want to score some points. Hit that TO DO list you've been putting off. Then when you finish get some of her chores done too. With less work to do she will have a lot more energy for more romantic endeavors.

What was the first movie you saw together? Redecover those old feelings. Go hit the library or video store and have a private viewing.

If you have any sew skills takes some fabric (kids hit their growth spurt use a favorite old shirt) cut out some heart shapes sew around the edges (not all the way) Stuff if full and sew the rest of the way shut for a cute heart shaped pillow they can keep for years.

Scoop of Hugs and Kisses recipe

Small scoop (kitchen or clean laundry scoop or check out the local dollar store if you need to)
Hugs and Kisses Candy
Clear or Colored Plastic Wrap
Tags and ribbon

1. Ribbon Fill the scoop with hugs and kisses.
2. Cut a large piece of plastic wrap.
3. Set the scoop in the middle of the plastic wrap.
4. Fold the plastic wrap over so that the two ends meet at the scoop handle.
5. Pull the plastic wrap tightly around the scoop and gather around the handle.
6. Tie a ribbon around the handle to hold the plastic wrap in place.
7. Tie a note onto the scoop that says "A scoop of Hugs and Kisses for you."

FOR THE KIDS:

Let them make their own cards. This of course works best with kids who love to make things but even less artistic kids will find these fun.

For both of these ideas cut out some heart shaped cards for your kids.

Stamping fun. Take a rubber eraser and draw a heart on it then cut away the rest of the eraser about half way through, leaving the top to hold onto. Using stamp ink or washable markers let the kids stamp to their hearts content on th cards you cut out for them.

If you happen to be in one of those schools where everyone attaches candy to their valentine and don't want your kid left out try this:

Candy Valentines:

Cut Two Heart shaped cards for each child that needs a card. Take one of the cards and cut a second heart shape out of the middle. Now you should have one whole card and one with a heart cutout in the middle. Give your child the whole one to sign names and decorate one side.

Now Take your selected candy (I used chocolate hearts when my daughter did this) and put it in the middle of the Whole card (this should be positioned about where the hole is in the second card) Using plastic wrap or the press and seal plastic wrap (I used the press and seal because it stayed in place while glueing) cover the candy. Then glue the second Heart to the First one. Covering up the plastic wrap. Make sure you do this several days in advanced to allow time for the glue to dry.