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Handy Tools Ease the Pain
Manufactures have been making a name — and a profit — for themselves creating tools and gadgets to help consumers get a "better grip" on countless household tasks. And I'm not knocking it. But I love it when I don't have to …Read more.
Let the Decluttering Begin
I know it's time. It's been time for at least five years, possibly longer. I need to clean my kitchen. Now, before you send the Health Department to my address, let me explain. What I mean by "clean" is that I need to clean out and …Read more.
A Glimmer of Hope to Cling To
Think back to a low point in your life. Don't struggle with this, just try to recall when you were going through a difficult season and life seemed bleak. Now recall that first glimmer of hope you clung to as you could see that things were beginning …Read more.
Homemade Solutions Are Budget-friendly
Dear Mary: Do you have a homemade recipe for bathroom air freshener refills? I have Air Wick brand, and I'm wondering if there is an easier and cheaper way to refill it when it runs dry. — D.R., California
Dear D.R.: Four to eight drops of …Read more.
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How to Preserve NewsprintDear Mary: I am looking for a procedure to prevent the yellowing of newsprint. Any ideas? Thanks. — Marilyn, Illinois Dear Marilyn: It's the high acid content that makes newsprint turn yellow. And just as you would treat acid in your tummy, you need to soak that paper in antacid. Mix 1 quart club soda with two tablespoons Milk of Magnesia, and refrigerate for eight hours before using. Pour the solution into a shallow pan; submerge the clipping, and let it soak for one hour outside the refrigerator. Carefully remove the clipping, and place it on several layers of white paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Then move it to a clean, flat surface to dry completely. Be sure to test this method on a part of the newspaper you don't care to preserve just to make sure the method does not react poorly with the ink. It is not likely, but it's better to be safe. Here's another tip: Always display newspaper clippings out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Dear Mary: Years ago, when young girls got married, their mothers would make hankies for the bride to carry. Later, these hankies would be turned into their baby's first bonnet. Do you know where I could get the pattern for this? My son is getting married, and I would love to give this to his bride to carry. — Jackie, California Dear Jackie: What a lovely tradition to rekindle. You can find the pattern and several appropriate poems to go with it at this website: lace.lacefairy.com/Gallery/Hanki.html. Hanky Blanks in the state of Washington offers a Hanky Baby Bonnet Kit.
Dear Mary: I have several pairs of earrings with missing back pieces. I could use the back from another pair, but I'd really like to replace the backs so I can store the earrings properly. — Martha, Minnesota Dear Martha: Most craft stores carry packages of earring backs in the jewelry-making aisle. You'll have your choice of finishes and quality. In the meantime, should you lose a back at work or other inconvenient time, here's my favorite quick fix: Simply cut a slice of a pencil's eraser with a craft knife or scissors. You can push the earring post through the eraser quite easily. It makes for a very secure fit, is comfortable and works like a charm. Do you have a question for Mary? Email her at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or write to Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2135, Paramount, CA 90723. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM
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