lil' bits of this-n-that

SliceThePie No Nonsense Site To Earn Cash

2020-04-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

No longer deserves my praises.

Follow Up: How To Catch A Thief

2020-03-24T08:02:00.000-05:00

The simple answer, public records. The wealth of information available is literally a google search away. Don't assume that you are being told the truth. You are perfectly justified in wanting verification. If there is not total transparency, be suspicious. Ask for hard copies of all paperwork included in the matter. Requesting printed copies usually will have a minimal cost.

Tip: In my experience I have found a visit in person to make my requests for hard copies resulted in the clerk supplying knowledge I would have never known had I not been there in person.

Public information includes: birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, land ownership, business licenses, statistical information, court records, warrant list, voting records, meeting minutes, just to name a few. You can access public records from all levels of government, state, county or city. The Sunlight Foundation advocates for open government. Stay in the know on the federal level by visiting their website.

Tip: A printed hard copy of an official record includes valuable information other than just a name.

Public records are so helpful when researching your family tree. A lot of the information that some websites charge a fee to see was information that was accessed for free from public records. Knowing where to look for this free information can be the hard part.

Tip: Family Tree Magazine is a superb site that lists a massive amount of free resource sites for free.

And now a word on prevention. Do not rely on others and their "knowledge" on anything. How do you know they received what they know from a reliable source. Do not blindly trust. That goes for family members, long time friends or some stranger you just met at the grocery store. Take the time and educate yourself. I promise you will not be sorry.

Just one more thing to mention. Do not allow others to take advantage of the system for their own personal gain. If you come across evidence of wrong doing, alert the proper authorities. If you see something, say something. That's why we are in the mess that we are in today.

If you have any questions, leave a comment or email me and I will be glad to clear things up for you.

Cheat Your Siblings Out Of Inheritance

2020-03-15T13:47:00.000-05:00

Hire a lawyer that knows the law. And knows how to get around it. If your brother-n-law could recommend the lawyer he has used through the years to acquire all his properties for $0 each, that would be perfect. This lawyer becomes your personal lawyer, not the estate's lawyer. Wink.
A notary public will be required. Make a point to keep one of these on your friends list. A friend wouldn't hesitate to bend the rules for a trusted friend in their time of need.
Since most people do not know what needs to be done, offer your services to take the time needed to figure it out for everybody. Assure them that even though it will be hard work and take a lot of time out of your schedule, your are up for the challenge and won't hesitate to ask for help if needed.
There will be those that want to help, ask a lot of questions and/or won't leave your side. Feed those people information that you want them to know. Involve them some how and they probably won't suspect a thing.
Construct a story with convincing details. Not lies but "alternate facts." Examples below.
Practice forging your siblings signatures. Legal documents will need to be signed by "them" to transfer property when a beneficiary deed exists. Life insurance policies require listing a beneficiary. An IRA account will list beneficiaries. Bank or savings accounts will require the signature of beneficiaries.
Power of Attorney becomes a powerful tool once everyone signs over their rights.
Once the statute of limitations is up then you will be in the clear to spend your stolen treasure how ever you please.
Make sure that the lawyer seals the file and makes it for your eyes only.
Taxes? What taxes? (truth is tax evasion is a crime and so is forgery, fraud and conspiracy)
Be prepared to get caught, go to prison and never see any of your "friends" or "family members" every again. (truth is karmic debt is real and you should be very afraid)

Alternative Fact Examples

The funeral costs are so much the vehicle will have to be sold and/or we will all have to pitch in out of our own pockets.
Several credit cards were maxed out and will need payment. (truth is your lawyer can write letters to the creditors stating $0 in the estate and debt will be forgiven)
There was a lien on the house that must be paid before we can sell. The bank will get the house and the contents. (truth is brother-n-law gets the house put in his name for $0 moves in and then goes to the bank gets a loan for house value)
Probate court requires there to be a will and no will was found. (truth is you never looked)
There are no assets to list because the deceased had nothing of value in the house. (truth is you arranged a secretive event to ransack the house taking everything and placing in storage before the funeral takes place)
Medicaid demands repayment. (truth is it could happen but didn't)
Declare your belief that everyone was informed and that their absence was taken as their choice to not be involved. (truth is they were never informed)

How do I know all this? Because this happened to me. In my next post learn how I discovered the truth. Hopefully you will be able to use this information to keep this from happening to you. It's more common than most people think.

Fire it Up. It's Time. Let's Talk

2019-12-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

Fireplaces are a commitment, but worth it to some folks. Ah, the heat and those hypnotizing flames are relaxing. I know a family that gathers around their fire place like most families watch TV. And that's exactly what they do during the off season. They create a cozy area to watch TV, covering up the big dark hole in the wall.

I thought of a couple more ideas. I looked for more but couldn't find any other ways to make use of a fireplace. other than the traditional. If you could add a comment about your fire place usage, likes, dislikes. If you want. Thank you for that.

Candles displayed and lit in place of the logs might be the less messy choice. They would light the room and produce more heat than you would think.
Decorate the area for each holiday throughout the year. Everybody would get a kick out of it.

A sweet aroma coming from the fireplace adds another reason to keep the flames burning. Besides it's cold outside. Making your own pine cone fire starters are easy enough.

Melt paraffin wax in a coffee can that is placed in a pan of water on top of the stove.
As your wax melts add drops of your favorite scented oil.
Tie a piece of string or candlewick to the top of a pine cone.
Dip pine cone into the scented paraffin wax.
Allow to completely harden and then dip again.
Repeat.
Place pine cone under logs and start your fire.

If you would rather just buy your fire starters, Etsy.com is the place to go on the Internet. They have a nice selection to choose from.

Fire it up. It's cold outside.

Resources:

Tiptionary 2 by Mary Hunt.

Bed Sheets Repel Deer From Gardens

2019-12-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Yep, ordinary white bed sheets. Must be white. You'll see. Every once in a while a tip will come along that deserves honorable mention. Not only does it qualify because of multiple uses that make sense. It's completely doable for me. Meaning no crazy ingredients or instructions. An honorable mention has a little bit more. And this tip using bed sheets to repel deer from my garden, made me giggle. See if it doesn't put a smile on your face.

Circle your garden with cord about 3 feet from the ground. Then about every two feet tie strips of the white bed sheet. A flash of white, tail-high warns a deer to high-tail it.

Image Mystic Art Design Pixabay

Please tell me you just smiled. Maybe a little?

We are not through with those white bed sheets just yet.

drop cloth when painting
happy birthday banner, garage sale banner, welcome home banner team banner, your get the idea.
target practice once you draw a bull's-eye.
very handy for taking to the lake to lay on while sunbathing, use as a towel or a tablecloth.

Speaking of tablecloths. You know those red and white checkered plastic table cloths sold in the summer. Grab one of these and let the kids use it to play checkers or for drawing. The ability to write on these tablecloths has been useful and fun at the same time for the adults too.

Image PixabayVictor Jumbo

One more honorable mention before you go.

Image Bruno Glatsch Pixabay

Stuffed animals are not just for setting around to look cute. I guess that is their main thing. But you know what else they can do while setting around looking cute. And by the way if you are fresh out of stuffed animals, but dying to make some bookends. Don't buy them brand new. Save your money and adopt from a thrift store. They usually have a lot on the shelf. Some of them have the original tag attached.

(I once found a Steiff stuffed dog at the bottom of the stuffed animal bin at a thrift store.)

set stuffed animals along the bottoms of windows and doors during the winter to stop a draft and set there looking all lined up and cute.
insert rocks or marbles, sew them up, apply some rubber from a glove to the bottom of your stuffed animal bookend to prevent slipping, while sitting there looking cute.
makes a great hiding place for valuables because they are cute, not hiding anything.

Speaking of stuffed animals. Some one should start a not-for-profit shelter and adoption center for all the homeless stuffed animals that go without needed love everyday. And too many are trashed and discarded, only to wind up at the landfill. Never to return.

Image Paul Brennan Pixabay

The shelter would also promote manufacturing awareness. From the manufacturers to the advertisers and all the other occupations involved. They must take responsibility for the role they have played contributing to the stuffed animal crisis we see today.

Thanks for stopping by.

Leave a comment and let me know where to repay the visit with a link. Do you agree with my choices for honorable mention? Maybe you have a candidate for the title? Share, please.

Resource: Reader's Digest Practical Problem Solver, 1992

Image Pixabay

Plastic Lids, Potatoes and Wading Pools Have This In Common

2019-11-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

Potatoes, wading pools and plastic lids are all super stars when it comes to usefulness and easily done. Easily done means no crazy ingredients or weirdness. Those are the two requirements that must be met for any tip to get my attention. They all passed the test with flying colors.

I know for sure I will never look at a plastic lid the same way again. A bag of potatoes will become a staple again in my kitchen. And I guess I'm just speechless when it comes to the wading pool.

Potatoes on Overtime

Dye your hair darker with potato water. Dip a comb in the water that potatoes were boiled in and then comb through hair. To speed the effect and help set the darker color, dry hair in the sun or a blow dryer. Heat is what we are going for here. I have had success with putting on a shower cap. The heat coming from my head is trapped which intensifies the effects of dye.

Black paint is made by baking potatoes until they are completely dried out and black. Grind thoroughly with a mortar and pestle. I bet there is a setting for that on a fancy blender or maybe food processor. I don't have either so it's up to you to let me know by leaving a comment. Add enough linseed oil to form a paint like consistency. I never have enough black paint.
First aid kit inclusion as a compress after an accident. Boil a potato for a warm compress. Put that boiled potato in the refrigerator for a cold compress.
First aid kit as itch relief. Salt a thin slice of a raw potato. Rub on hives or insect bites for itch relief.

Plastic Lids Do Double Duty

Use the caps from spray paint cans to organize the screws, nails and other small find-me-not items that scatter about. Attach caps to a sturdy bottom so it's easily removed or maybe just setting them down in a drawer is just as good. An easy trim if they are a little too tall.
A three or four inch plastic lid from a tub of butter with an X cut into the center becomes an impromptu ponytail holder. The same plastic lid and the same X slid onto the handle of a paint brush becomes a shield to catch accidental paint drippings that can cause havoc.
Rim down and placed over a drain makes a plastic lid a sink stopper.
Be on the lookout for those lids that will be a perfect fit on a magnifier, binoculars or camera lenses. I really like this idea. I'm on the hunt.
Plastic lids can be cut and used as stencils. Hey, haven't we heard that a potato... no wait, I'm thinking about a raw potato used as a stamp. Never mind. But this is a good one to remember.

Image by Pixabay

Wading pools are not just for keeping cool in the summer, but for looking cool too. Obviously, just look at him. So cool. Even though the price was right when I saw wading pools on clearance a couple of months a go. I could not figure out where to store my bargains until next summer, so no deal. Until now. I might even buy a wading pool at full price when summer gets here

During the summer months fill with fresh cold water from the hose for your feet. Toddlers will love to swim in them and when your back is turned so will the birds. Filled with ice, they make a great cooler for drinks at your next party. Or corral toys and other yard stuff laying about.

Here's where my mind is blown. A new approach. I missed it plain and simple. An easy fix to my problem, couldn't see it. Completely missed it. I think two or three wading pools would be fun and functional in the summer.

During the winter months wading pools become storage containers for what ever fits into them leaving enough clearance to slide easily under a bed. Out of sight. This is a personal favorite of mine. Wading pools can be used in several different ways all year long, useful multiplied. Fairly inexpensive and available for purchase just about anywhere during the summer, easily done.

I think I have seen quite a few wading pools thrown away at the end of summer, either in a dumpster or setting beside the road for trash pick up. You betcha I'll be watching out for them now. And when buying a new one probably gonna consider how sturdy and dimensions.
Wading pools could be super useful for those long tubes of wrapping paper. And what a great organizer. Portable and stocked with everything needed on Christmas morning for Santa's helpers.

Tag you're it. Leave a note. Thanks

Resources:
Images from Pixabay.com
1991 Reader's Digest's Practical Problem Solver

Microwave Cooking 101

2019-06-15T15:54:00.000-05:00

When I came into this world a microwave could be found in just about every kitchen and was used practically every day. I don't recall being taught anything about them, and I'm quite sure not one household was using them to their full potential. I was an adult before I realized that the microwave could be used for something other than re-heating left overs or making popcorn. How about you?

I was stunned to find out an entire meal could be cooked in a microwave.
Thawing frozen foods is a snap and saves enormous amounts of time in a microwave.
Did you know how food is arranged in the microwave has everything to do with how the food cooks and for how long?
The size and shape of the container used also plays a major role in the outcome of the dish.

So without further ado, let's begin.

Adapting A Recipe

Cooking time will be around 25% of conventional cooking time when adapting a recipe to cook in microwave.
You will need to experiment and adjust the power setting according to your preference.
Pay attention not to overcook.

Arrangement

When cooking more than one item at the same time, arrange the food items in a circular fashion.
Potatoes should be arranged in a ring.
Corn on the cob gets arranged like the spokes on a wheel.
Chicken pieces, pork chops and other meats with bones should be placed so that the bony parts are in the center and thick parts go to the outside.
When re-heating leftovers remember denser foods are placed at the outer edge and more porous foods like rolls or fluffy rice get placed in the center of the plate.

Browning

Meat and poultry brown after about ten minutes.
A special microwave browning dish or grill is usually available for meats that cook too quickly for browning like, hamburger, pork chops or steak.
You an also create a browned look by brushing on a gravy mix or bottled brown bouquet.
Cakes, breads and pie shells don't brown well. Not so important with chocolate or spice cakes.
For others, molasses or dark syrups may be brushed on.
Glaze or a frosting might work as well.

Selecting Container

When a particular size or shape is specified in a recipe, use it for best results.
Generally a tall narrow container increases cooking time.
A broad shallow container reduces cooking time.
Recipes for puddings and sauces call for large containers to prevent boil overs.
Cakes and some loaf recipes call for round cookware to provide more even cooking.

Coverings

Covers trap steam, speed cooking time and help foods retain their natural moisture.
Suitable coverings are micro-proof casserole tops, glass covers, plastic wrap, waxed paper, micro-proof plates and saucers.
Paper towels are useful to prevent splatters but do not rap steam.
Always remove coverings away from hands and face to prevent a burn from the steam.

Size Doesn't Matter

In this case anyway, it's more about the density.
A slice of bread has low density and more air.
A slice of meat the same size has high density and less air.
Even though they are basically the same size, the slice of meat takes a lot longer to reheat than the slice of bread because there is less air or more density.

Defrosting

Large items should be turned and rotated halfway through defrosting time to provide more even thawing.
Foods in approved coverings thaw more quickly.
Remove thawed portions of ground meat as soon as thawed. Return frozen portions back to the microwave to finish thawing.
To thaw half of a frozen veggie package, wrap half of the package with foil. When the unwrapped side is thawed, place the foil covered side after separating with knife or scissors back into the freezer for next time.
Thin or sliced items should be separated as soon as possible. Remove thawed pieces and allow other slices to continue thawing.
Poultry wings, legs and small or the bone ends of meat might need to be covered with foil strips for most of the thawing time to prevent cooking.

Bonus Tip - The microwave can bring chips back to life if they get stale. Place a plateful of chips and microwave. Check them every 30 seconds or so for warmth and crispness. Works great!

Pop quiz next time! Don't forget to study!

Extra credit for sharing one of your favorite microwave tips and/or recipes in a comment!

Guide For Picking the Ripest Juiciest Best Fruit

2019-06-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Bananas should be slightly under ripe. You are looking for bright yellow, no bruising and slightly green on the stem end. Do not put in the refrigerator.

Plums and Peaches are good for about five days in the fridge. When you first bite into it and the juice is the perfect sweetness. Pick fruits that have a rich color. A solid soft (my words) when you hold it. You want your fruit to be firm but not hard to the touch. No mushy, no shriveled, no bruising, no cuts and no brown spots.

Apples should have no bruises or cuts. A firm or hard feel in your hand. Look for bright colors. Refrigeration not required unless they are cut up. To decrease the browning, squeeze lemon juice all over.

Pineapples are best stored at 70 degrees away form sunlight. They will not ripen any further. Smell the pineapple's butt (stem end for those with no sense of humor). A sweet fragrance detected means you hit the jackpot. But if there is no smell or a fermented one, steer clear. Opt for a small compact crown with rich green leaves. Pineapples are usually available all year round, but March is when you will find the sweetest. Once cut up refrigeration will be required but they will deteriorate quickly.

Grapes need to get into the refrigerator as soon as possible. Do not wash them, just leave them in the bag they were purchased in..Wash them under cold water when you are ready to eat them. In the store make sure the bunch has all over even color. They should be plump and firmly attached to a flexible stem.

Oranges are firm and heavy with finely textured skin. There are several different kinds and they can be refrigerated for two weeks. Naval oranges are good for eating and most popular. Roll your orange in a circular motion on the table or counter right before peeling. Pulp gets juicier and peeling will be easier.

Watermelon is a big favorite of mine. Going in blind has produced some real stinkers in the past. Not anymore. I picked out the sweetest, most best, delicious watermelon the other night at the store. Use these tips like I did and you will fall in love with watermelon all over again.

White streaks on the melon indicate a less sweet fruit.
A deep thump will be heard if you gently knock on the outside rind.
The surface should be firm and smooth.
On the underside is the yellowish or cream white area that touch the ground. A bigger area means the watermelon was not picked until fully ripe at maximum sweetness.
Inside should be bright red, firm and juicy with mostly black seeds.
Stem should be shriveled and ready to fall off.
I find I have the most luck picking one that is medium sized and oblong shape.

Nectarines are orange, yellow and red at their best. Store at room temp until they soften and ripen. After that store in the refrigerator for no more than five days.

Cantaloupes are ripe with yellowish, thick coarse veining. Avoid a surface that is too soft. A sweet fragrance should be noticeable. Check the blossom end is indented and slightly soft to pressure.

Honeydews are the best with a creamy white or yellowish white smooth skin. A sweet fragrance will be found also. Surface should not be too soft.

There you have it. Please let me know about the ones I have left out.

5 Simple Make-Up Tricks For Full Lips So Easy Works For Everyone

2019-05-26T12:53:00.000-05:00

Add some sugar to the cleanser you use on your face for a d-i-y lip scrub. Scrubbing lips in a circle pattern, not too hard, makes them smooth and stimulate puff.
Choose glossy over matte every time when it comes to lip color.
With a white, shimmery liner pencil outline just above the V of the cupid's bow. You will love the overflowing effect this gives to you lips.
Line the length of the top lip line only with a nude pencil. This will make it disappear and give an appearance your lip goes on and on. And then fill in entire lips with the nude or a soft pink colored lip pencil.
Lighter colors reflect light and creates depth. Darker shades define a border

D-I-Y body scrub is created by mixing 2 parts baby oil with 1 part sugar.

*Did you know taking B vitamins strengthens fingernails.*

D-I-Y dandruff rinse can be made by mixing 1 part mouthwash with 9 parts water.

Apply to scalp and leave on.

Not just a nail polish anymore.

It's a sealant to keep important information like directions from getting water damaged.
Prevents rust from forming when applied to the bottom rim of metal cans stored around water.
Mend a small tear in fabric screen. Even a small tear will give those pesky bugs a way in.
Here's a cute idea that deserves repeating. Seal envelopes for party invitations, use party color.
Chips or nicks easily disguised with the right color applied.
Clear polish will create a barrier between jewelry metal and skin

Powers Out! How long will the food last in the fridge?

2019-05-24T14:05:00.000-05:00

With all the crazy storms, high winds, rain, flooding, lightening, tornadoes, trees down, blown transformers and power outages means no electricity. Oh no the refrigerator! The food! Is it still good once the lights come back on? I've got the break down for you right here.

I have heard that a full freezer is better but I forget exactly why it's a better choice for your pocket book. To this day I have frozen water in large plastic containers to keep a full freezer. If anyone reading this has any idea why a full freezer is better. Please let me know what you know. And does that also go for the refrigerated part, too?

Moving on to the information about how long the food will last.

A full freezer maintains temperature for about 48 hours after shut off. Keep door closed.
The bottom of fridge is the coolest part of the fridge. Makes sense to move the food down.
Keep the door closed and the food will stay cold for approximately 4 hours.
According to the FDA, food that remains below 40 degrees Fahrenheit is safe to eat or be refrozen.
Those large plastic containers that I mentioned earlier will come in handy if you have to use a cooler. You can pick the size of container that works best for you but remember the larger the ice chunk is, the longer it will take to melt. Once it melts you have drinking water.

The above tip will serve you well when packing a cooler for a camping trip or a long day at the beach. And I thought of a few more tips that are sure to come in handy.

A dime size amount of dish soap can be used in the place of shampoo or even body wash.
Tennis shoes will dry by morning if you put wadded up newspaper in them.
Regular under arm deodorant rubbed on a mosquito bite will bring instant itch relief.

I'm going to ask for your help again. There's got to be more tips for camping or a day by the water that you can share. Please leave them in a comment. It would be very much appreciated.

22 Tips For Garage Sale Success

2019-05-12T11:00:00.000-05:00

Nothing should be priced under $1. Small items can be grouped together in a baggie for $1. The see through grab bags always catch my eye at the thrift stores. If I spot at least one "gotta have" item in the bag plus all that other stuff, I am a buyer. Taking small change out of the equation as much as possible makes so much sense.
No discounts before noon. Having clear boundaries keeps things running smoothly during the sale. A schedule for markdowns is a good idea. $1 is much easier to markdown than 25 cents. Advertise the markdown schedule too.
Think about the questions you know the shoppers will ask and have responses ready. Can we use your restroom? Bulk sales? Discount?

Keep items organized as the sale goes on.
Play music only during the slow times.
Two people should be manning the sale at all time.
Keep the peace. Don't argue in front of your shoppers. If everyone wore the same color during the sale, they would be easier to find when it gets busy.
All clothes should be hung up for easy access.
Nothing on the ground. Only a few exceptions.
Books stacked where the title on the spine is visible. I have put the books in smaller boxes, so they won't be so heavy once full, with spine up and found this useful.
Make sure everything is priced. The bigger the item, the bigger the size of the price tag should be. Prices should be visible. People do not want to hunt for a price.
Keep running totals for each seller involved.
Keep an assortment of change on hand at all times. You don't want to risk losing a sale because you don't have change.

Expenses should be divided evenly among all sellers.
Have plenty of bags, boxes and packing for purchases. Helps to start gathering these way before the sale is set to begin.

Always have a table or box full of free items.
Group like items together and have a sign for the grouping.
Put decent sale signs with arrows on every possible corner in your neighborhood. Main roads with lots of traffic are great assets for your sale. Don't underestimate their power. Bright pink or white is more noticeable.
Brainstorm about ways to make money during the sale. For example: drinks, baked goods, or plant starts.
Advertise your sale on line. Don't forget the pictures. Gsalr.com, yardsales.net, yardsalesearch.com, garagesalefinder.com, garagesaletracker.com, craigslist.com. This is just a few places that come to mind.
Tell your neighbors you plan on having a sale. Give them enough time to put out a sale of their own. The more sales in the same area will attract shoppers.
Have a plan in place for left overs. Donate to thrift stores. Giveaway?. Throw away? You will be tired after making all that money, having a plan will make closing the sale stress free.

I found a great widget on the gsalr.com website. It's free and available for anyone to place on their website. Mine is displaying a map with the local sales in Springfield Missouri.

Leave a comment and tell us your garage sale success stories. Love to hear from you!

That Stinks, Get Rid Of It!

2019-05-10T11:00:00.000-05:00

Experts suggest skipping the lung irritants that only mask smells and disguise themselves as a fancy brand-name freshener. But, they're usually the cheapest choice on the shelf and sometimes a quick burst of scent is all you need. Find a product that kills the odor causing bacteria as well as gives a burst of smell good and you'll get your money's worth.

Control cooking odors as you are cooking. Boil 1/4 cup vinegar per 1 quart (1 liter works too) of water in a saucepan on the stove. The rising heat carries odor neutralizing vinegar to the same surfaces that the smoke and grease have landed on. This is one tip I can not wait to try.

Funky carpet funk is no fun. Shake baking soda on the stain or entire carpet if needed. Let the baking soda stay on the carpet over night. Next day vacuum up. Repeat if necessary.

Buy some fine activated charcoal in the aquarium supply section at the store. Spread some in a shallow pan and put on a shelf in the fridge or freezer. The charcoal is safe around food. After about 8 hours the charcoal can be reactivated in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. You can reuse the charcoal many times by reactivating it. In a pinch, you can use cat litter.

We all know about keeping a box of baking soda in there for odor busting maintenance. Another product easy enough to acquire but not nearly as cheap as the baking soda. I am talking about fresh coffee grounds. Not the wet grounds left in the filter, silly.

Would love to hear from someone with a tried and true diy air freshener "recipe." If it kills the odor causing bacteria, that's all the better.
sniff sniff

6 Assorted Tips You Need To Know

2019-03-31T17:32:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered if there was a better way to pose for a picture to be more attractive, this includes selfies. I'm not talking about taking your clothes off or sticking your butt out. ha ha ha. You know you have seen it. I am talking about a head shot. Tilt your head to the right and slightly up. Remember this is a subtle move. You can take it too far if you are not careful.

Do you know someone that can't tell a story without using their hands? This may not be a bad thing. Evidence shows hand gestures are a sign that someone is telling the truth. You might want to think twice about those story tellers not making any hand gestures because more than likely they are lying.

Looking to buy a car? You want the best deal you can get. Is there one time better than another to get a better deal? Experts agree the best deals will be found at the end of the month, for various reasons.

This is a great idea for anyone going to the zoo. Who doesn't enjoy going to the zoo? Maybe somebody that has had a bad experience with one of the animals. Think about the animals and how they feel when all these people come to see them. They get scared. What can you do to help this situation? Wear the same colors as the zoo workers to help the animals not be so afraid.

Can you believe that a twenty to thirty minute nap during the day equals ten hours of alertness. Say what? I'm not sure about this one myself. I have never been a napper but maybe I should give it a try.

Do those taxi drivers have a reason to ask, "are you from around here?" Yes they do. They want to find out if you are familiar with the area because this will let them know the most profitable route to take to your destination.

Share a tip or a link or an idea in a comment. Love to hear from ya!

5 Hot Tips 8 Sexy Shortcuts 4 Freaking FYI's

2019-03-30T20:18:00.000-05:00

Freaking FYI's

Research says almost all of us decide whether someone is trustworthy based simply on their appearance. I think it is important to note appearance does not only mean how they are dressed. Some will take advantage of this naive attitude and manipulate words to make it "appear" that they are on your side. We probably should re-think how we judge others on appearance alone, for our own good and theirs. Left unchecked, rules get broken because appearance isn't everything like some think.
They say drinking apple juice before going to sleep causes vivid dreams. I was hoping someone out there could try this for me. Apple juice has never been my thing but change could happen. Please someone try this and report back in a comment or email or whatever. Please!
This is for those folks brave enough to trust (there's that word again, sign?) they will remember to cancel the "free trial" before they are charged. But have you ever thought about changing the date in your computer system and extending the life of the free trial, just an idea.
Radiation from your cell phone is dramatically increased when the battery is low.

Hot Tips

Stop coughing by raising arms above head.
I have heard that a banana peel rubbed on a mosquito bite will stop the itching.
When marinading chicken or beef use a sandwich bag. Shaking it up will keep the marinade evenly distributed. Easy clean up. Toss the bag when time to cook.
Sandwich bags work well for storing all kinds of things, even baby wipes. Make your own baby wipes by mixing 1 tablespoon antibacterial liquid soap, 1 tablespoon baby oil and 1/3 cup water. Cut paper towels in half, fold and place into the bag with you mixture means you never have to go without.
Attract butterflies to your yard with decaying fruit. They love the sweet taste. The more colorful the better.

Sexy Shortcuts

Close pores on face with an ice cube to prevent breakouts.
A lemon wedge applied to a self-tanning streak will lighten it up.
Add a teaspoon of baking soda to boiling eggs and the shells will come off easier.
Someone told me that eating a mango before smoking pot will enhance the high.
Run for 3 hours to lose 1 pound of fat. Run for 27 minutes a day lose 1 pound per week.
Hold your breath until you can't anymore and exhale slowly. This will increase your heart rate and get rid of that sleepy feeling.
Check your health care insurance policy for gym membership reimbursement.
Ward off mosquitoes and biting flies in the summer months by taking B complex vitamin.

Bonus

Attract luck by wearing forest green.
Command respect by wearing navy blue.
Win an argument by wearing pastel pink.
Feel empowered by wearing the color purple.
Comfort someone by wearing powder blue.
Boosts everyone's mood by wearing citrus colors.
Rev up a relationship by wearing red.

Resources: My Notes, Here and There

Find and Preserve 4 Leaf Clovers

2019-03-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Each leaf has a meaning, faith, hope, love and luck.

A shamrock has only three leaves, considered to be the "norm" and the most common found.

St. Patrick used a three leaf clover in his teachings to represent the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

HELPFUL HUNTING HINTS

They can be found. Believe it. They are out there hiding in the clover patches. Get your green on!

Where you find one, there will be more than likely others in that same area.
When you first walk up on a clover patch, stay standing. Relax and slowly scan the clover patch with your eyes. Successful clover hunters swear by this technique. They say a four leaf or any pattern change will pop out. If you scan too fast you might miss a subtle change. So take your time. Not a problem once you reach ninja status.
Once your on the ground ready to pounce on the patch, take the time to repeat number 2 above.
Running your hand over the clover patch will allow extra leaves to surface.

Green, gold and gaining popularity, orange are the colors for the holiday.

Forest green is said to attract luck.

Green represents Catholics. Orange represents Protestants.

Don't be surprised when you get pinched for not wearing green on St Patrick's Day.

Mischievous leprechauns get the blame for the pinching tradition.

Wondering if it's possible to preserve your lucky find. Click here to find out.

Hey kitty how did you get in here? You have the wrong holiday. We will be seeing you later this year. Byeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee................

What's Your Actual Skin Tone and What Color's Look Best To Wear on Your Body, Nails, Eyes and Lips

2019-02-10T17:00:00.000-06:00

I got straight A's on the quiz. Let's see how you zone out on the pop quiz.

What is the natural color of your hair A) dark brown or black B) blond, strawberry, red or light brown C) gray or white?
Take a white piece of paper and hold it next to your face. Your skin looks A) yellow B) pink & rosy C) gray?
What color are your veins A)green B) blue C) unsure?
During the summer you're more likely to A) tan easily B) just burn C) mixture of both?

Mostly (A) answers means your skin tone is WARM. The experts suggest pairing golds like yellow and rose or copper or brass with earth tones such as yellows, browns, orange, peach, corals or turquoise will all bring out your natural glow.

Medium-Dark Skin Lip Colors

magenta, brick red, tangerine

Dark Skin Lip Colors

wine, orange, orchid

Mostly (B) answers gives you a COOL skin tone. Silver, white gold and platinum paired with colors that are vibrant such as red, blue, green or purple are the best colors for your fair skin.

Fair Skin Lip Colors

bubble-gum pink, fuchsia, tomato red

Light Skin Lip Colors

raspberry, plum, blue-red

Mostly (C) answers means your skin tone is somewhere in the middle and maybe leaning stronger to one side or the other. This skin tone has been labeled as the NEUTRAL skin tone. Yellow gold, white gold, silver or brass paired with white, jade, reds and blues. I suggest that deciding if you are closer to warm or closer to cool will help to narrow your choices.

Light-Medium Skin Lip Colors

coral, fig, true red

Olive Skin Lip Colors

rosy pink, berry, pink coral

Research shows wearing lipstick will help boost confidence. We all could use a boost now and then.

A well-known tip to keep lipstick on the lips and not settling into those lines around the lips is the use of clear lip liner traced on top of your lip line.

If you're new to wearing lipstick, starting with a "sheer" color will help ease you into wearing it. Then, when you are ready to move on to a bright shade create a stain like effect by applying your lipstick to the center of your lips and blending it outward with your finger or a lip brush.

Send a message with your choice of nail polish hue. I think you can figure out what color says what.

Here's some suggestions from the "experts."

Fair - Light Skin / Cool

enhance with deep colors like forest green, tomato red, dark purple

Light - Medium Skin / Neutral

avoid earth tones and go vivid with periwinkle, coral, raspberry

Olive Skin / Neutral

balance your yellow with a cooler hue like dusty pink, baby blue, grape

Medium - Dark Skin / Warm

rich jewel tones of plum, magenta, blue red

Dark Skin / Warm

pop with bright shades of yellow, orange, robin's-egg blue

Wearing colorful eye shadow or liner will make you seem more outgoing or friendly or playful. That is, compared to a more "natural" look.

A rich shade of eye shadow will brighten the whites of your eyes and intensify your irises.

*Navy colored eye shadow will create this effect for every eye color.

*Amethyst eye liner is universally flattering for every eye color.

*Teal colored eye shadow works for blue eyes and so does burgundy eye liner.

*Cobalt colored eye shadow works for brown eyes along with a navy eye liner.

*Choose purple colored eye shadow for green eyes as well as a plum eye liner.

Source: Dr. Oz The Good Life Magazine January/February 2015

Lighten Up With LED Save $

2019-02-03T13:00:00.000-06:00

LED light bulbs have come down in price since they first were introduced. As much as 90% some say. It's a proven fact they use much less, 80 to 90 % less, electricity than their predecessor. There is no longer any reason to keep from switching from the incandescent bulb to the LED bulb. If it's the unfamiliar terms keeping you from being confident your making the right choice. Let me shed some,"light" on the subject for you.

Replacement wattage is the wattage of the bulb that you are replacing.

Wattage is the actual amount of electricity the new LED bulb is using. The range of use is usually 8 - 20 watts for a typical LED bulb.

Lumens is the measure of brightness. The more lumens per watts the better. More brightness for less money is the way to go.

Kelvins are represented by a "K" and is the unit of measure for the CCT (correlated color temperature). Living rooms and bedrooms use a "warm" or "soft white" tone (3000 K and below). For a bathroom look for "cool" to describe the most efficient bulb (3100 K - 4500 K) Workshops and outside are the place to put a "daylight" tone LED bulb (4600 K and up).

The word "Dimmable" is added to the packaging if the LED bulb inside works with a dimmer switch.

Guess who is selling LED light bulbs for just one dollar. I don't mean the Dollar General or the Family Dollar. Some people call these two stores, dollar stores. But they are not. True dollar stores are the ones that sell everything for only one dollar. Love, love, love the dollar stores. Don''t you?

Now you know. Get out there and save some money.

16 Tips To Help You Lose Weight

2018-01-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's a new year and a new you! And this time you are going keep that resolution. You are going to lose weight. You are going to exercise and watch what you eat. You're even thinking it might be time to try one of those cleanse programs you have heard about, aren't you.

What ever you decide, know that I am behind you all the way. You can do it!

That's why I compiled a list of tips for you. I think they can help you lose all the weight you desire. Now get going. You have only a few months before bikini time is here.

Before eating anything, ask yourself if you really want it. Mindless snacking is never good when you are trying to lose weight. You don't have to accept everything offered at the office. Don't give in to peer pressure.
Keeping a food diary is a good idea. Jot down what you are eating and when. Add details about how you are feeling, who's around, what's the weather like. After a while you might see a pattern. Now that you are aware of it, you can change it.
Make a time schedule for meals and snacks. Getting organized will help you stay in control. Adding your exercise routines to the schedule is a good idea, too. I like to add goals to my schedule, so I won't miss rewarding myself. This is a good place to keep track of total calories consumed.
Speaking of rewards. Find some non-food ways to reward yourself. It could be new clothes once you reach a certain size.
Come up with a way to not pass through the kitchen as much at home.
If you don't have one already, buy a scale. Measure portion sizes.
Drink at least one full glass of water before eating. You will get full faster and it helps with digestion. For variety add a slice of lemon, lime or orange. For a treat buy mineral water.
Use a smaller plate to make small portions appear larger.
Keep lower-calorie snacks, like fruits and veggies, in the most visible places in the refrigerator and easily accessible on the counter.
Cook with a toothpick in your mouth so you are not tempted to nibble.
Chew each bite completely before swallowing. If needed try to reach a certain number of chews per bite.
Throw leftover food away, give it away or freeze it immediately.
Decide what you plan to order before entering a restaurant and stick to it. No doggie bags!
Stay away from ready-to-eat foods. If you have to prepare your food before you can eat it, it becomes more of a chore.
Eat foods that are high in fiber. More chewing is required. You'll feel fuller. This will also give you that cleanse you have been thinking about.
Clear the table after meals. This will eliminate the temptation to continue snacking.

Be mindful and stay in control when choosing what to eat.

I truly hope you will find some of this useful. I wish you well and good luck!

You Can Do It!

Reduce Utility Bill Plus More Winter Tips

2017-12-31T12:29:00.000-06:00

Baby it's cold outside.

Everybody has heard about putting plastic over the windows. And surely you are aware of the window kits available at hardware stores. Wal-mart sells them and probably Target too. I bet we will be seeing them in dollar stores soon, if not already. Please comment and let us know where you get your window kit. I have used them before and they work great.

A ceiling fan set on the lowest setting is an excellent idea to circulate the air in the winter. Heat rises and the ceiling fan will help to push that heat back down.

Use a dehumidifier in the Summer and humidifier in the Winter. When I hear people start complaining of headaches, feeling dry, runny noses or sinus trouble, it's time for the humidifier because the cold Winter air is very dry. If your are lucky enough to have a machine that is both, that's wonderful. And if you are like my dad, you won't need a dehumidifier in the Summer. He likes the sticky heat.

Have you considered blocking off some areas of your house during the winter months. Use only one door to enter and exit from during the coldest times. Covering those extra doors with a blanket or plastic is another way to keep out the cold. A rolled up blanket or rug at the bottom of doors is something I have seen in a lot of homes.

Don't forget to check the furnace filter and change it if needed. Your furnace will run more efficiently and keep the utility bill from going up, up, up.

Speaking of the utility bill. I recently was given information that will reduce your usage and lower your bill every month, all year long. What you need to do is look at everything that plugs into an outlet. Companies are required by law to list (on the back or bottom of the appliance) the watts that is required to run that appliance.

The utility company lists your usage as kWh (kilo watts per hour). Kilo equals 1000, so don't confuse the two. The refrigerator uses a significant amount of electricity but we can't turn that off. There is something else using as much power as the refrigerator that most of us leave on. Not thinking it really matters, we will leave it powered up day and night. What could it possibly be?

The company that installs this equipment in your house doesn't normally tell the customer to make sure to turn it off when not in use because of its excessive power usage. Why would it need to use so much electricity anyway? What could it possibly be? It's the cable box.

We sometimes forget to turn out lights or forget to turn off the oven. Accidents happen and are easily discovered and corrected. But who knew about the cable box. We get done watching TV and turn the TV off. But how many of us go ahead and turn off the cable box? I suggest looking at all your electronics and see how much they use and if they are being turned off. Plugged is not bad, it's when they are left with the power on that keeps the meter turning. Sometimes they will have either a blue or red light indicating the power status.

Instead of getting up earlier to scrape the windshield of the car. Spray de-icer on all of the car windows and lights, even door locks the night before and there will be no problem in the morning. I like to use Prestone's de-icer, that comes in a yellow spray bottle. You can find it just about anywhere during the season.

One more thing for the car, especially if you have leather seats. For Christmas one year I received one of those seat warmers that looks like a seat cover and I love it. Works great. It plugs in to the cigarette lighter. Just don't forget to turn it off, better yet, unplug the sucker because it will drain the battery dry. You will definitely be needing a jump in the morning or after an eight hour work day if you leave the power on.

One of the all time best Christmas presents I received was a gift certificate to a tanning salon. I thought this was an excellent and very thoughtful gift. Who wouldn't appreciate a gift of warm Sunshine in the middle of winter, even if it was pretend.

Now a word about space heaters. Always turn these off when not in use. There are a lot of them that use a lot of power. But I have discovered one awesome little machine that is a cooling fan or heater and the power usage is reasonable.

And the really cool thing, it's made in Wichita, Kansas. Made in the USA. The name comes from the word vortex and the word tornado. They have been around since 1920. It's quiet, aerodynamic and the price is reasonable. Check out their website at vornado.com to find out all the details. Did I mention the low power usage. We love ours and use it all the time.

sewrella.com

If you're into crocheting winter accessories with free patterns...

Or if you would like to get some great blogging advice...

Or maybe you would just like to check out an inspiring blog by an inspiring blogger...

Enough of that. I really like sewrella.com. I think you will too.

I might even start crocheting again.

For Those Born August 20

2017-08-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

Words of Wisdom...

Stop dwelling on the past. Let it go. Live in the now. Thinking about the past keeps you there. It's over. It's OK to move on now. Start thinking about a new life right here before you. Enjoy the wonderment of what is to come.

Strengths... Weaknesses...

Creative Ambivalent
Considerate Withdrawn
Smart Self-Contained

Words To Live By...

"Letting go of the past allows magical possibilities to manifest a life more rewarding, here and now."

Links for Astrology

The Mountain Astrologer free beginner's course to astrology.

Blog Rank this link will take you to the top 25 astrology blogs according to the criteria that is listed on the page. Head to the home page and you will find all kinds of different categories to check out. Good idea, that's where I'll be for a bit.

Resource for post...
"The Element Encyclopedia of Birthdays" by Theresa Cheung check out her you tube video where she talks about another book she wrote, "How to Find Heaven."

High-Quality Walk-In Bathtubs Here's How To Get One

2017-08-14T04:28:00.000-05:00

High-Quality Walk-In Bathtubs

If you or a loved one is a senior citizen or disabled at any age that results in limited mobility or other debilitating conditions, he or she is sure to have major trouble trying to get into and out of the bathtub. The ideal answer for those who have that dilemma is easy access tubs that solve the difficult bathing problems by modifying the existing tub into a walk-in bathtub.

That type of vastly improved bathtub allows people to stay in their own homes and be more independent for a longer period of time. Bathing is made much safer, comfortable, and enjoyable. Stability is provided by a slip resistant seat and strong safety handles. Access is made easy with an inward or outward swinging door with a broader entry and exit. Other details include such things as a guaranteed leak-free design, hot water that is temperature-controlled, and other unique helpful features.

Another big benefit is that the tub installation process is fast from beginning to end as experienced and professional installation technicians show their dedication to making sure that the customers are satisfied with all aspects of the project.

It is also good to know that there is the existence of a network service that has an efficient specialty of matching homeowners in need of home renovation projects with local well-qualified home remodeling specialists who can give multiple competitive quotes. That service allows you to compare, by free quotes with no obligation, the skills, qualifications, and previous work experiences of various contractors who will bid on your specific project.

The service provides to the contractors project details such as type of job, equipment involved, a budget range, a timeline, and contact information so that the contractor can take it from there. That reduces the hassle and time having to be spent by the homeowner to try to find top-notch and reputable home re-modelers who can properly and timely carry out the job. The value to the contractors is having leads for their specialized local services and the aid in finding jobs.

Remodeling Contractor.com will be happy to have a discussion with you and explain how they can be of help to make your renovation exactly what you require and desire for any type of home-improvement needs either interior or exterior. Covered are the surrounding areas to major cities such as Chicago, New York, Boston, Baltimore, Phoenix, Dallas, Washington D.C., Raleigh, Atlanta, Jacksonville, San Antonio, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland.

12 Cleaning Tips for Books Framed Art Record Player

2017-04-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

I previously wrote a post about books. Since then, I discovered cleaning tips I wanted to share with fellow book lovers.

Leather, imitation or not, makes an attractive book covering, not to mention durable. Periodically washing them with a mild detergent keeps it clean. Apply a light coat of oil or petroleum jelly to avoid cracks from the covering drying out. I have used furniture polish before and it worked just as well.
Talcum powder or cornstarch sprinkled on damp pages will absorb moisture. Then you can shake or brush all the powder away.
Soft white bread crumbs rubbed on grease stains makes them go bye bye.
Keep the books out of direct sun light. Prolonged sun light will fade and destroy the bindings.
A never-been-used paint brush is the perfect solution for cleaning your books as needed. Simply brush away surface dust. A vacuum cleaner with the brush attached works too.
If the edges of a book are soiled, hold by the covers together tight with one hand and an art gum eraser in the other. Rub the eraser over the edges and make sure the book doesn't open to expose individual pages.

Dip a small brush, like an artist would use, in rubbing alcohol. Brush the needle free of dirt or dust.
A soiled album can be cleaned by placing it on the turntable. Hold a dust cloth lightly on the album as it goes 'round and 'round. Going the same with the grooves instead of across guarantees no further damage.

When cleaning the glass on a framed picture do not directly spray the glass from the spray bottle. It's a much better idea to spray cleaner on your cleaning rag and then use that to clean the glass. You don't want to risk the possibility of the liquid getting trapped under the frame and ruining the artwork.
A tarnished gilt frame will shine again if wiped with a rag dampened with turpentine.
Again don't spray directly on the picture or the frame. When polishing the frame with furniture polish, make sure to only apply polish to the cloth being used.
This is a clever trick for dusting in the crevices of a swirly carved frame. A clean, empty squeeze bottle aimed at the frame and squeezed will blow it clean.

Stains on a piano keyboard, ivory or plastic, come clean with a damp cloth dipped in baking soda. Be careful and don't let any baking soda fall in between the keys. If that happens, a paint brush could be your only hope.
To brighten dulled ivory keys, use a very fine (400 to 600 grit) sandpaper and rub it with the grain down the length of the key.

It's A Bird, It's A Plane, No... It's Super Grapes!

2017-03-16T05:28:00.001-05:00

I love grapes. Red or green doesn't matter, just as long as they are bursting with all that sweet grape juiciness. Set me down in front of a TV with a bag of grapes and I will eat them like popcorn. I have been told I am a picky eater. I think "picky" is a little harsh. But, I guess they are right for the most part. Let's just say if you are "trying out" a new recipe and need someone to try it, let you know what they think. I am not the one you should call. I won't even try a taste. I'm sorry but I just won't.

Check out my post about how grapes help us looking young here.

Enough about all that. There is a recipe, just brought to my attention, I can't wait to try. Are you ready for this? Grape pie! Doesn't that sound yummy? If you click the link the recipe is listed toward the bottom of the page. The are some other grape recipes that look tasty too. The post lists the benefits our bodies get from grapes. Excuse me, SUPER GRAPES! It appears to me grapes have reached super hero status. The author of the post has graciously added grape recipes for those of us that would prefer not to eat grapes popcorn style. Check out Jen Reviews content about grapes. But don't stop there. Bookmark this site for future reference. I know I will.

4 Ideas Bring Light to House Plants WITHOUT Electricity no kidding!

2017-03-05T04:12:00.004-06:00

Light houseplants without electricity.

Set plants on a tray of white pebbles.
Position mirrors so they reflect light back on plants.
Paint the shelf or wall near the plants with flat white paint.
Cover folding screens with shiny Mylar or anything white

If your yard is small...

Plant climbers like cucumbers next to a fence.
Put attractive vegetables, like eggplant and peppers, in the front yard.
Grow solid blocks of vegetables in small beds 3" wide for easy weeding.

No yard at all...

Cucumbers, peppers, herbs and lettuce thrive in containers on a porch, patio or apartment balcony.
Put several inches of pebbles in a container that has holes for drainage; fill with potting soil...water daily in summer... liquid fertilizer once per week.

Wildflowers Safe to Pick in Most Areas...

Queen Anne's Lace Red Clover Black-Eyed Susan Daisies Chicory Mullein Butter-and-Eggs Ground Ivy Purple Violet Aster Goldenrod

Window box with partial shade plant...
fuchsia impatiens begonias ivy ferns pansies

Please share some of your gardening tips with us in the comment area. I need all the help I can get.

7 Signs of Spring

2017-02-27T06:11:00.002-06:00

Fern leaves (fronds) begin to unfurl.
Hepatica flowers bloom in pastel colors in the woods.
Willow twigs turn yellow-green.
Sale signs start popping up.
Auctions resume.
Local college kids take a break.

Nesting birds start looking for material to build with. Tuck bits of string, feathers, yarn and cloth into a mesh bag and hang it on a fence for them to use.

Fair weather signs

High clouds, wind from the west, evening rainbow, clear sunset.

Foul weather signs

Red sky in the morning, strong south wind with clouds from the west, distant sounds carry with clarity, wind from the east.

*Do you know what a blackberry winter is?*

*A cool spell that sometimes happens in May while blackberries are in bloom.*

First fall frost comes six months after the first thunderstorm in spring.
Mark your calendar. Let's test this folk belief or put it to rest.

The best thing about Spring?

It's almost Summer!