Cheap 'N Cheerful

Craftster's hand made gift ideas

2009-12-31T09:57:00.003-06:00

I know the holiday season is over but there are more times in a year to make gifts than just Christmas.

Over the month of December Craftster.org compiled a list of some great gift tutorials and I'm passing that list on to you.

Tea Wallet

Patchwork Scarf
Photo Bookmark
Felt board
Personalized Coffee Mug
Water Bottle Carrier
Stenciled T-shirts
Fun Clock
Hooded Towel
Watercolor Portraits
Scrabble Tile Magnets
Candle with Wax Globe
Yarn Ball Ornament
Covered Switchplates
Infused Bath Salts
iPod Cozy
Hat from a Sweater
Little Notebooks
Cupcake Kit
Travel Sudoku Tin
Etched Bottle
Embellished Silverware
I Spy Bag
Pendant
NoSew Fingerless Gloves
Personalized Clue Game
Recycled Stationery
Photo Pillow
Lavender Sachet
Decopaged Spatula

Coffee and hot cocoa mixes

2009-12-17T13:40:00.007-06:00

Coffee mix - One part instant coffee, two parts sugar, two parts coffee mate

To serve the flavoured coffee, add one tablespoon per cup of water to taste

Hot chocolate mix - One part cocoa one part sugar

To serve the hot cocoa add one tablespoon of mix to one cup of hot milk

Try to make one cup of mix AFTER the additives are included. An easy way to do this is to make a lot of the mix, put the additive in a measuring cup and then top it off with the mix until one cup is reached. Mix well, I suggest using a large measuring cup (like 4 cups) but only measuring up to one cup so you have room to stir. This can make a huge mess.

French vanilla = Coffee mix + a packet of instant vanilla pudding (I find that this one tastes best with two tablespoons of mix per cup of water)

Holiday spice = Coffee mix + 2 tablespoons all spice mix

Caramel = substitute the white sugar with brown sugar in the coffee mix

Almond = Coffee mix + one teaspoon almond extract (This comes out like an amaretto if 1/4 cup cocoa is added to the mix)

Mocha = This one is a little different. One part instant coffee, two parts sugar, two parts coffee mate and one part cocoa.

Peppermint Cocoa = Hot chocolate mix + one teaspoon peppermint or mint extract

Chocolate cherry cocoa = Hot chocolate mix + one packet of cherry Kool-aid

I then made labels that included serving directions with my basic home printer and some label paper then jarred the mixes in recycled baby food jars but you could package it however you like or keep it for yourself.

Try other flavours, this mix is very versatile and measurements also do not have to be exact. When making something new it is fun to make just a one cup or even half cup batch and taste test some too.

Try different spices, pudding mixes or extracts.

Draft stopping critters

2009-09-21T21:27:00.003-05:00

Critters That Keep Out the Cold

Stationed in a window or up against a door this winter or fall, these charming homemade draft blockers will help keep indoor temperatures up and fuel bills down -- provided they don't get coaxed off the job for a playdate, that is. Both are simply fashioned from a pair of tights and filled with rice, which makes them posable enough to tuck tightly into nooks and corners.

Found on Disney family fun craft website (Where you can find the instructions too) for a perfect first day to autumn.

Home made pop tarts

2009-08-21T10:19:00.001-05:00

Thanks to boo_zombie and ragdollpirate our mornings will now be filled with the evil goodness of toaster pastries, but they’ll be homemade. Personally, I’m thinking s’mores, but if you wanted to cross over to the salty side, you could fill them with bacon and cheese. Or how about scrambled eggs and cheese?

Grab the full recipe here (or just scroll down) and get baking!

nom nom nommmm lol

YOU SHOULD THANK RAGDOLLPIRATE SHE GAVE ME THE RECIPE COZ SHE IS TOTALLY AWESOME AND I <3>

Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe
23 min | 15 min prep
12 pop tarts
For Pie Crust
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons cold water
For Filling
• 1/2 cup jam (your choice)
For Glaze
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 ounces milk, to thin
• candy sprinkles
1. Preheat oven to 450°F
2. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Add shortening and butter and blend with a fork, pastry cutter, or your hands. Blend until mixture is fairly coarse. Add water, 1 tablespoons at a time, gently mixing dough after each addition until dough forms a ball.
3. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and roll into a square/rectangle. To about 1/8 thickness. Cut out long strips about 2 inches wide and 3 inches long. Repeat until dough runs out.
4. Take one pie crust rectangle and lace 1 teaspoons of jam on top. Cover with another piece of pie crust and crimp all four edges. Repeat with the rest of dough. Place Pop-tarts on a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake for 7-8 minutes.
5. While pop-tarts are baking, make glaze. Place powdered sugar in a bowl. Pour milk slowing until it has a consistency of really thick syrup. 1/2 a tablespoons to 1 tablespoons might be enough.
6. Once pop-tarts are done and cooled, top with glaze. Sprinkle and decorate with colorful sprinkle.
For cherry filling just whiz some cherry pie filling until smooth.

For Chocolate add coco powder to the dough and just add bits of chocolate into the middle.

Free Coldplay album, Left right left right left.

2009-08-12T11:15:00.002-05:00

Coldplay is offering a free album for their fans at http://www.coldplay.com/lrlrl/lr.html

Download it and enjoy!

KY Cloud 10 sample (not for the kiddies!)

2009-07-22T11:36:00.000-05:00

KY, a company that makes personal lubricants has created a tropical arousal gel. Sorry is this is a little personal for some people but I know some ladies out there might want to try this.

From the official website:

What is K-Y^® INTENSE^™ Arousal Gel for Her? K-Y^® INTENSE^™ Arousal Gel for Her is your ticket to CLOUD 10™. It is not a lubricant, but a uniquely formulated arousal gel that has women saying "it makes sex more satisfying". 75% of women who used K-Y^® INTENSE^™ Arousal Gel experienced feelings of heightened arousal, sexual pleasure and sensitivity where it counts most. Of those women, 90% reported that K-Y^® INTENSE^™Arousal Gel bettered their overall intimate experience with their partner.

They are offering a free sample from their official website HERE

Hope I didn't offend anyone. :)

Moonlight Movies in the Exchange

2009-07-21T11:14:00.000-05:00

The Exchange BIZ & the Winnipeg Arts Council present Moonlight Movies in the Exchange

On July 30 & 31, Old Market Square will be transformed into an outdoor movie venue, with a blockbuster Hollywood movie playing each night!

Thursday, July 30
GHOSTBUSTERS!

Friday, July 30
FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF!

*** Each night will also feature a very special, world premiere showing of The Kids of IRCOM's brand new music video, produced with the support of the Winnipeg Arts Council***

Moonlight Movies will start at approximately 9:30pm

Made by humans $5 T sale

2009-07-20T14:20:00.004-05:00

Design By Hümans is having a truly -excellent- $5 and $10 sale today and don't know when it will end:

http://www.designbyhumans.com/shop/affiliate/foxtongue

What is Design By Hümans?

DesignByHümans is a place for people to submit, discover and buy amazing custom t-shirt designs created by artists from around the world. Based around an ongoing t-shirt design contest, all of the designs you see on DesignByHümans have been submitted by our community. Headquartered in Irvine, California, DesignByHümans officially launched in July 2007.

Free slurpee day '09

2009-07-10T13:37:00.002-05:00

Every year on the 11th of July 711 stores give out a free slurpee until they run out of special cups. This is available all across Canada.

Bound to be a hit in Winnipeg (Slurpee capital!)

Go get some slurpees tomorrow!

Out door pools open soon

2009-06-22T08:51:00.000-05:00

The 2009 schedule for outdoor public pools is now available HERE

Wading pools and spray pads are free and tonnes of fun for the whole family. There are many scattered through out the city so pick one and go cool off already.

Admission Requirements

Wading Pools have a maximum depth of 45 - 60 cm (18 - 24 inches). They are designed for children 12 years and under that meet Admission Requirements. Children under 5 years of age must have a parent, guardian or caregiver 12 years of age or older actively supervising them at the pool.

Groups are welcome at wading pools city-wide - please check the Group Admission Requirements.
Dakota Park is available for group or day care bookings from 9:30 - 11:00 am, Monday - Friday, July 2 - September, 2009.

Wading Pool Rules

For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, Wading Pool Rules apply at all wading pools operated by the Community Services Department.

Wading Pool Closures

All wading pools are closed on days when Environment Canada forecasts either the projected high temperature for the day is 21°C or lower or the probably of precipitation is 70% or greater.

Wading Pools may need to close unexpectedly - please check Wading Pool Closures for more information.

Frugal finger paints

2009-06-18T11:15:00.002-05:00

You can make your own finger paints by mixing 2 tablespoons of white flour with a little water to make a thin paste and then adding a few drops of food coloring.

To make painting extra easy for a young child, have her paint on waxed paper taped to a table in the kitchen or outdoors. Put a blob of paint down on the paper and show her how to slide her fingers around. If you want to save her creation, press a piece of regular paper over the waxed paper and peel gently away; hang to dry.

I personally used normal paper and it worked fine. This does not make the best paints in the world but it really amuses a baby. Best of all you know it's non-toxic. She kept eating it and it was great to have the piece of mind of knowing it was just coloured flour and water.

Free OB Tampons

2009-06-17T10:02:00.000-05:00

OB Tampons have been offering this for some time now. This pack of 3 tampons and a carrying case is available to Canadians, all you have to do is fill out the form HERE

I have received this before so I know it comes.

Springs church charity car show

2009-06-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

If you are a car lover then you won’t want to miss this weekend!!! You will see muscle cars, import tuners, rods and some insane out of this world sound systems competing in a dB Drag Race. Come join us for a Father’s Day weekend to remember as we have a wide variety of things planned for you.

This event combines two great purposes; the first is honouring Dad’s on Fathers Day weekend by giving them what they love, cars, cars and even more cars! The second is to make people aware of the struggles our inner city kids face and raise money for great programs at Springs Inner City that build their self esteem and give them a positive alternative to life on the streets.

Why not make it a family event and bring out the entire family as there will be great food, prizes to be won, live band, magic show, kid’s face painting / games and much more!

ITINERARY for Saturday June 20
(Itinerary will be update when and if necessary.)
- 7:00am - set up for Parts SWAP meet
- 7:30am until noon Parts SWAP meet open
- 9:00am Car show entry registration and set-up
- 10:00am until 4:00pm Car show open to public
- 10:00am until 12:00 DB Drag Race time registration and trials
- 1:00pm until 4:00pm DB Drag Race competition
- 11:00am until 4:00pm Autocross Rally Course open to public
- 4:00pm DB Drag Race awards
- 4:30pm Inner City presentation by special guest Mayor Sam Katz
- 5:00pm Car Show Awards ceremony (for all categories) Presented by Mayor Sam Katz

Father’s Day Sunday any entries are welcome to stay over for our Show & Shine for all our service guests...cars can be left here over night (security provided) or brought back by 8:00am.
SATURDAY’S EVENTS:

> DB Drag racing – Sponsored by Hamilton Audio / Mach 5 Audio for all those stereo buffs out there (North America wide competition). Some of the vehicles registered for this event are already from as far away as Alberta and the northern USA.

> Car Show – featuring a wide variety of classifications (including Classics, Muscle, Tuners, Street and Motorcycles)

> Autocross Rally Course – for those that always wanted to try their car out (hosted by Porsche Club of Winnipeg)

> Part Swap Meet - for those looking for the elusive part to finish off their project

**You say what is a dB drag race???
Click here: http://www.termpro.com/

Click here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DB_drag_racing
Click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGiWK2nv_Pc

This event will be held at Springs church at 595 lagimodiere blvd

CLICK HERE FOR A MAP

Hope to see you out there!

How to bake cookies without a recipe

2009-06-02T12:24:00.005-05:00

I have read a million cookbooks and cooking magazines and it has gotten to the point with my self teaching in the kitchen that I no longer need a recipe so long as I understand the technique.

Problem is that it is harder to find cooking technique books than it is to find run-of-the-mill cookbooks.

I want to cook things without a recipe and do not want to rely on them.

Here I will use cookies for example, and I hope to teach someone something in the process.

The basic ingredients in cookies are:

Flour

Sugar

Egg

Flavouring

Baking soda

Extra

Fat (Butter, margarine or any other fat)

Now it would make common sense not to use bacon grease as your fat, unless for some reason you wanted to make pork cookies, but the idea here is to learn the science behind cooking so if you ever wanted to make bacon cookies you could. The fat can also be a nut butter or shortening. Think FAT! Oil is not a particularly good choice here because it is not very stiff.

I start with the fat and the sugar. About equal parts or each, however some like sugarier cookies. Remember more sugar will make them crumblier as the sugar does not bind as well as the other ingredients.

Also, with the sugar, whether you use brown, white, natural, cane or even finely crushed butterscotch or mint candies will make a big difference in your cookies. All white sugar will cause it to come out like a sugar cookie where as brown sugar gives it a softer chew. Crushed candies will also give a flavour to the cookies so you may want to omit any other flavouring. Experiment with whatever sugars you like, keep in mind that if you are looking for a chocolate chip cookie consistency it is usually done with a 50/50 mix of brown and white sugars. More white if you want it crispier and more brown if you want it softer. I personally like 75% brown and 25% white but again, whatever you like, have on hand or depending on the kind of cookie (I might make a bacon cookie with 100% brown sugar but a Christmas style sugar cookie would be made with all white sugar).

Mix this very well, some call it "creaming" the sugar and butter.

Eggs are kind of like the glue that holds it all together, it also causes the cookies to brown. Depending on what kind of cookies you are making and how many would determine how many eggs you use. I have never experimented with too many eggs, so I don't know what happens if you put lots of eggs in your cookies. The amount of egg to batter is hard to describe, but I personally like one egg to each cup of fat used.

The flavouring is normally vanilla extract when making cookies, though any extract can be used (Almond, mint etc) as well as other kinds of liquid flavouring (Including juice) Add as much of this as you like, keeping in mind that too much will overpower the taste of the cookies and not enough will not have a strong taste at all. It would also be too much flavouring if it drastically changes the texture of the dough you have so far. For myself, I usually add a few tablespoons of flavouring or extract to each cup of fat used though I have seen many recipes and have used 2 eggs for each cup of fat so it doesn't have to be so precise (in fact, this whole process does not have to be precise).

Baking soda causes to cookies to rise. I usually about one teaspoon to each cup of fat used but I have made cookies without it and with extra. It really doesn't make a huge difference but if you want fluffy cookies, use it.

I usually mix it at this point, but you can not over mix cookies, so mix as much as you like.

Extra stuff are things like oatmeal, chocolate chips, M&Ms, coconut, raisins, crushed candy bar pieces, nuts or really any thing else you want in your cookies. Add as much as you like here. This is really what makes the cookies special and individual so have fun. you can also chose not to add anything here.

Flour is of course the part that makes it all come together. More flour will make it stiffer and less four will make it runnier. The look and feel here will be the biggest key as to whether or not there is enough. You want to be able to make balls with the cookie dough.

If you wish to make a more chocolaty cookie, you can substitute some of the flour for cocoa. Cocoa will make the dough gooey so I usually use a 25% cocoa to 75% flour mix if making chocolaty cookies. This makes black cookies as opposed to brown or white cookies and taste really chocolaty.

Stir this until it is all mixed well.

To bake, place cookies by balls on a cookie sheet. Grease the pan if your pan is conducive to things sticking to it. Parchment paper is a good idea and I have even used tin foil as well. Anything to keep the cookies from sticking. Of course you don't need to add anything if you have a nice non-stick baking pan.

Space them with enough room so that the cookies don't touch each other when they spread out from the heat. If you are concerned about the cookies spreading out and sticking to each other just put less on each pan and cook in more batches. Better to be safe than sorry and by the second batch you will know exactly how to space them for maximum cookies baked per batch.

Cook at about 325 degrees until browned on top and they look yummy. The bigger you made the balls the longer it will take to cook. Check them often because cookies cook quickly. small cookies cook in under 10 minutes where larger hand sized cookies can take about 15 minutes. This really depends on the size of the cookie.

The cookies will be soft when they come out so you will want to let them cool. They can cool in the pan, on a cooling rack, in a plate or on a paper bag. You can let them cool wherever you like. this will help them stiffen and make them easier to eat and distribute. I know you want to eat them hot. Timing is key here, eat some when they are cooled off a little but still warm for best results though cookies are good totally cooled too (but you knew that!)

Hope that gave some insight to baking cookies. Now to figure out how to bake cake without a recipe! It's probably pretty similar.

Free light smoothie day at Orange Julius

2009-05-29T10:16:00.001-05:00

You will need to bring THIS COUPON with you to the store on June 19th 2009

Again that coupon is at http://www.orangejulius.com/downloads/freeCoupon.pdf

This coupon comes right from the Orange Julius website and it totally legit (Do I post anything that isn't legit?)

Enjoy! YUM YUM

Make your own chocolate syrup

2009-05-28T11:40:00.001-05:00

I find that this recipe impresses people. Maybe they figure that chocolate syrup is made in a factory and bottled, I am not sure but people are always surprised when I tell them I make my own chocolate syrup for a fraction of the cost of the store bought kind and is really easy. Funny thing is that I found the recipe on the side of a can of store bought cocoa.

In a saucepan combine:

1 cup cocoa

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 cups water

Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes stirring constantly

store in an air tight container in the fridge. Mine always gets eaten in about 3 weeks to a month so I am not sure how long this keeps for but I would guess quite a while because it's only cocoa/sugar water.

I also store mine in an old chocolate syrup container I had left over from when I used to buy it. I wash it between batches though so it doesn't get crusty but you can keep it in any air tight container.

Use this as you would store bought syrup. I like to pour the fresh warm syrup on ice cream, put a little in my coffee, iced coffee or frappuccino, and even make chocolate milk and soy milks with it.

Make your own sports drinks

2009-05-27T09:31:00.004-05:00

We all need to keep hydrated but store bought sports drinks like Gatorade are full of sugar and other things that are less than desirable.

I found this recipe in a magazine to make your own sports drinks this summer, and every other summer for that matter.

Mix one part fruit juice and one part water and add a pinch of salt

Yeah that's it.

After seeing this "recipe" (The quotes are because I would call this less of a recipe and more of a method) I decided to google "Make your own sports drink" and found many other recipes. Some called for tea while others called for juice. Some called for the water while others didn't. I even found one that added baking soda. The thing in common with all of them though was the pinch of salt.

I think that you could make this with any yummy juice or tea you like, water it down to reduce the sugar content if you like but basically just add a pinch of salt to whatever you are drinking.

Have fun and stay safe this summer!

Make your own Cleaning wipes

2009-05-22T11:23:00.000-05:00

Cleaning wipes are expensive but so convenient!

Thanks to Organizedhome.com for this tutorial.

You can use any tightly sealable container for this. You probably have everything you need to do this in your home. I know I do.

Original tutorial is HERE

Wipe Out! Make Your Own Cleaning Wipes

Posted March 31, 2009 by Cynthia Townley Ewer

Who doesn't love commercial cleaning wipes? They're wickedly convenient--but also wickedly expensive and often contain harsh chemicals.

The alternative: make your own!

Homemade cleaning wipes are easy to make, economical, and contain only those cleaning agents you select.

Put homemade cleaning wipes to work for you in your organized home with our easy instructions:

Materials and Equipment Needed:

cylindrical plastic food storage container, 10-cup capacity
extra-large roll of paper towels
cleaning agents of your choice (recipes follow)
electric drill with 1/2-inch drill bit
electric knife
liquid measuring cups

Instructions:

In the garage or workshop area, place a small block of wood beneath the plastic food storage container lid. Use electric drill to drill a 1/2-inch diameter hole in the center of the container lid.

For best results, select an extra-large roll of good quality paper towels for this project. Less-expensive towels fray or shred when pulled through the holder; thicker quilted towels have greater cleaning strength and withstand more scrubbing. Even at $1.39 per roll, cost for homemade wipes will be less than 75 cents, not including the storage container.

Without removing the paper towel wrapper, use the electric knife to cut the paper towel roll into two shorter rolls. Save the second roll for a refill later. Be patient! It may take up to two minutes to cut through the towel roll and cardboard tube inside.
Remove the wrapper, and place one short paper towel roll inside plastic food storage container. Using a liquid measuring cup, gently pour one of the following cleaning solution recipes over the top of the paper towel roll.

You will need between 2 and 4 cups of cleaning solution, depending on the size and absorbency of the paper towel product selected. These recipes make about three cups of solution; increase or decrease amounts if needed.

General Surface Cleaning:

1 1/2 cups white vinegar
1 1/2 cups water

Disinfectant Cleaning:

1/4 to 1/2 cup pine cleaning solution such as Pine-Sol brand
2 1/2 to 2 3/4 cup water

Window and Glass Cleaning:

1/2 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol
2 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon white vinegar

Place the lid on the plastic food storage container, and allow paper towels to absorb cleaning solution for 4 hours to overnight.

Open the food storage container. Gently pull the wet cardboard tube from the center of the paper towel roll and discard. Carefully pull the end of the paper towels from the inside, where the cardboard roll had been. Thread the end of the towels through the hole in the lid, and replace the lid.

Pull gently on the exposed end to separate the cleaning wipe.

Tips:

As you use the wipes, they will begin to dry out, so add more water and/or cleaning solution as necessary. Allow wipes to stand overnight before continuing to use them after adding more solution.

You may vary the strength of the cleaning solutions as necessary for your household, using more cleaning agents for a stronger wipe, less solution and more water for a milder product.

Free Tim Hortons Iced Coffee

2009-05-21T09:03:00.002-05:00

This one has been flying all over the Internet recently but the details are getting muddled up like a crazy game of telephone.

Just to clarify, it is not a free ice cap, it is not a large, no they will not just fill any container you have with free ice cap until the machine is empty (I guess you can ask them when you get there but my bet is that it won't happen).

The free item is a small iced late.

For those that have not heard of this yet here are the details:

Enjoy a FREE Tim Hortons
Iced Latte!*

Thursday, May 21, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Drop by participating Tim Hortons stores on Thursday, May 21, 2009, and enjoy a small
Iced Latte for FREE!*

Tim Hortons Iced Latte is made with freshly ground espresso and served over ice.

*No purchase necessary. Offer valid at participating Tim Hortons locations in
British Columbia and Manitoba. Limit one small Iced Latte per customer.

The official website is HERE in case you need to see it for yourself (I know I always do)

This is TODAY! So go get a free iced late!

Quick tip: Stir sticks

2009-05-18T11:56:00.004-05:00

Today's quick tip comes from the Riverwood Church Community. This church is famous for having a coffee break in the middle.

Yeah, these guys love their coffee!

Fettuccine noodles, broken to the length desired, make excellent stir sticks.

Check out this picture I took of their coffee display.

Those are normal, plastic, stir sticks on the right and the fettuccine stir sticks more to the middle. I thought the noodle would soften in the coffee but it didn't. It takes more than a little stir to cook noodles. Aside from the obvious cost difference with noodles Vs plastic it was also pointed out to me that noodles are biodegradable so it would be help with all of our carbon footprints.

Thank you Riverwood!

Spring cleaning party

2009-05-04T14:21:00.002-05:00

I would not normally call any time where I clean a "party" but the great people at Simplemom.net have a step by step two week spring cleaning regiment with day one starting today.

I just learned about this a few hours ago and jumped on the band wagon. If you're like me and need a little motivation and lots of direction when it comes to cleaning you might want to try it too.

Basically, Simplemom.net will post a new cleaning task (chore?) every day and a little motivation to go along with it. The idea is that by the end of the two weeks, with only a little work every day, your spring cleaning will be done.

31 cent ice cream at Baskin Robins

2009-04-28T11:15:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow is 31 cent ice cream day at Baskin Robbins. It's 31 cents a scoop, up to 3 scoops per person.

Their website, http://www.baskinrobbins.ca, for locations!

Bring your family and friends to the
31 Cent Scoop Night at Baskin-Robbins to show
your support for firefighters and enjoy scoops of
your favourite ice cream for 31 cents.*
As a thank you to our customers and the firefighters
who protect them, Baskin-Robbins is donating
$10,000 to Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
All collected consumer donations will be used by CFFF to build the Canadian Firefighters Memorial in Ottawa.
*3 oz. soft serve cone or 2.5 oz. hard scoop are 31 cents plus tax where applicable. Limit three scoops per person.

Quick tip - Coffee cubes

2009-04-24T15:01:00.002-05:00

Left over coffee can be frozen in ice cube trays.

Use those frozen coffee cubes in your iced coffee or home made frappuccino

Iced coffee is easy, just place coffee cubes in a cup and top with cooled coffee. The ice will cool it down even more so it doesn't have to be too cold before pouring.

Frappuccino is those same cubes and coffee put in a blender. blend until smooth. I like to add some half & half before blending too.

Flavour your drinks with chocolate syrup, caramel, honey, cream, milk or any combination. Coffee flavours are good too.

Contest tips part 2

2009-04-22T10:26:00.002-05:00

2)Read the newspaper

*I find that contests in the delivered paper are quite rare. I personally do not subscribe to the paper nor do I read it on a regular basis but when I do there are not often contests in it. The kind of paper I am talking about is the local events/news paper. It's hard to describe this kind of news paper. They are usually free papers and usually have a lot of local events and contests in them.

*In Victoria BC this paper is called the Monday magazine.

In Winnipeg MB this paper is called the Uptown Magazine.

ETC ETC ETC

Find your local paper / magazine, ask around or google it.

Often times this magazine/paper will have a contest where the only requirement is to email them your information and the contests are often listen on their website.

In Winnipeg's uptown magazine (for example) the home page for their magazine is THIS PAGE. From surfing the site you will find their contests HERE.

The contests will vary from time to time so check back weekly and enter any you are interested in. I win this way a lot

Another website in winnipeg with local contests is Accesswinnipeg

Win something already! (contest tips part 1)

2009-04-21T09:42:00.006-05:00

Here's something I didn't really want to share because the more people playing this game the less of a chance I have of winning. We're talking about contests here!

Now I understand that some people "professionally" enter contests using auto fill programs on their computer and have all the angles worked out to get the best odds of winning a new washer and drier or a lifetime supply of instant noodles but I am not going to go into that here, mainly because I do not do that myself and do not really have any advice on that topic. The kinds of contests we are going to talk about today are quite small, the prize is something like a CD or DVD and movie, concert or event tickets. Sometimes you can win CASH!

1) Listen to the radio

*If you pick the right station you not only listen to the kind of music you like but they also have contests for similar items. You won't win a rock music album listening to a jazz station. Usually the contest will require someone to be the -somethingith- caller and often need you to answer a question or play a game, but not always.

*Set the radio station(s) you listen to's phone number in your speed dial, in your cell phone or house phone, or memorise the phone number.

*Listen to the requirements for winning.

*If you only need to call in, no trivia or anything else then call it! You probably won't get in the first time but if you try often you will win eventually.

I used to win this kind of a contest once a month (the radio station I listened to had a rule where you could only win a maximum of once per month)

* If you need to know the answer of a trivia question and you either know the answer, someone with you knows the answer or you think you have a pretty good guess call in.

* If it is a game you have to play like answer a few trivia questions in a row CALL IN. Many times these are multiple choice games or have somewhat easy questions. They also often still have smaller prizes if you don't get all the answers right and a large prize for getting it all correct.

*To win radio contests keep calling in. Call in when you think you will win and when you think the odds are stacked up against you. Just call. You will win more often than you think!

* Check out the station's website. Sometimes they have more ways to win or earn points online.

More tomorrow

Financial Peace University

2009-04-16T10:56:00.004-05:00

Educating yourself is the the best start to managing your money and Dave Ramsey has an amazing program available through out Canada and the USA.

It's called Financial peace university. I have been taking this course for a little over a month now and I love it. I have already saved money and payed off more dept that I would have without this money managing course. It is funny and serious and smart. Dave Ramsey talks with such bluntness about how being in debt is wrong that needs to be told to so many people today.

Now you probably know that debt and poverty is not the way you want to live and know how to educate yourself, you are in a cheap living blog reading my posts and probably read many others or even have your own, but do you know everything you know to fight debt and win in the game of finances?

At my church this course is free but it may not be free in all locations so search your area for a course starting now and call the location to find out if it is free or if there is a fee. If you can not find any up coming courses in your area check for classes that are currently in progress (by choosing 'advanced search" from the search page)and call the location to ask when they will be starting again or if you can join in part way through. I have two friends that are just starting on week 4. In my church the course is 18 weeks long but this will vary by location as well. It is also requested that you purchase the workbook. In my area it is rather pricey ($130, Yowtch!) but I am finding that taking notes instead of buying the book is working out really well. They hand out any important paperwork in class so I don't feel you need the book, but some people like it.

There are many testimonials on the FPU website. Surf the page and read a little about it. I'll wait.

On top of this there is a special presentation, Town Hall For Hope. This is a special event that will be broadcast live to several locations and is about the recession in particular. "I am an American and I am not participating in this recession" is the tag line found on the Town hall for hope website. I wish I could attend but I found out about it too late to inform my church about presenting it and it is not showing in my area. You can search for your area from the search section of the homepage.

More things to do with T-shirts

2009-04-09T09:43:00.002-05:00

Sorry I don't have a full real post today. We are all getting together for Easter and hope your family have a great holiday full of old and new traditions.

So to make this at least a little bit of a normal "Cheap N' Cheerful" here's a link for more things that you can do with an old t-shirt.

You guys are never going to throw out clothes again.....

Easter egg tips and tricks

2009-04-07T11:07:00.000-05:00

Ditch the packaged egg decorating kits! You probably already have everything you need for great Easter eggs in your house.

Basic colouring

Did you know that you can use regular food colour to dye your eggs? I have been using it since I was a child and gives a very vibrant or light pastel colour, which ever you like, it just depends on how many drops of colouring you put in your water.

Here's how; Combine 1tsp of vinegar with a half cup of hot water and a few drops of food colouring. Many boxes of food colouring comes with a colour chart or you can follow this one that I found with a quick google search. Keep in mind that all brands on the colouring will vary slightly and that using less will give a more subtle colour while using more will create a deeper colour. Food colouring can also dye your plastic containers and wooden items like your table. Coffee mugs work great for this project because they are deep enough to submerge the whole egg and are made out of a ceramic which is not likely to stain. As with all craft projects with kids you might not want to do this while your kids are dressed in their Sunday best as it may stain clothes. The chances of staining will depend on the brand of food colouring you choose though I find it's pretty safe. For best results, let the water cool before you start dipping the eggs.

To dry the eggs

I hope you have been saving toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls. Take a few of these and cut them into half inch disks. These disks are perfect for placing the wet dyed eggs on instead of back into the egg cartons to keep the colour from smearing and to display them right away.

A little more fun?

Sneak into the kids crayon collection and collect the white crayons. If you find your kids don't actually use white crayons you can keep them with the rest of your adult crafting stuff too. If you don't have any white crayons yellow ones will also work but I think the white ones are way cooler.

Let the decorator draw or scribble all over the egg with the crayon before dipping in the dye then when it's dipped the dye does not stick to the wax and leaves cool patterns on the eggs.

Hope you and your family have a traditional Easter, either with new traditions or old!

Make your own Swiffer accesories

2009-04-06T11:16:00.000-05:00

I can not take credit for this. This collaboration of links has been put together by Tipnut and am just sharing them with you here.

15 homemade Swiffer cloth patterns includes patterns for knitting, crocheting, sewing and even a no-sew option for the craft challenged (it uses an old sock... brilliant!)

It also includes a link to a pattern to make your own Swiffer duster and how to take the cap off of a Swiffer wet-jet canister so you can fill it with whatever cleaner you prefer.

The link to the full article in tipnut is HERE.

I personally saw a reusable Swiffer style cloth at Dollarama an just picked one up the other day and then use a spray bottle to get the floor a little damp with a home made cleaner. I'm not as fancy as some people with the whole "Swiffer system" but it works for me.

Pancake mix recipes: Deep fried goodness

2009-04-03T11:19:00.000-05:00

This tutorial starts with the pancake mix recipe posted earlier this year

but any pancake mix can be used.

You will need to prepare the mix as directed to make pancakes.

In the case of the home made pancake mix you will need:

1 cup of mix

1 egg

1 cup milk

And then mix it together to create the batter

Now the fun part, picking the ingredients

You can deep fry almost anything. Yes it's true. I use this technique to deep fry sweet things.

Some

things you might want to fry are:

Bananas

Oreo cookies

Chocolate bars

Fig Newton

Reese's peanut butter cups

Cake

Cheese cake

Brownies

Chocolate chip cookies

Oatmeal cookies

Pictured on the right are some things I chose to fry up. There is an Oreo type cookie that I made from scratch, some chocolate bars, fig newton style fruit bars and some peanut butter cups.

Cut everything to bite size pieces.

Then coat it in the batter and place in deep frying oil on a high heat.

The pieces will float so you will have to turn them over once they are browned on one side.

When you take them out of the oil after several minutes of cooking the snacks need to be placed on a plate with a paper towel on it to drain the oil off.

Let it cool for a little bit. You want it to still be hot in the middle but not boiling. It is easy to burn yourself on hot melted chocolate so be careful, especially when serving this to children!

It is also really easy to over eat these and feel fat. So delicious!

Customer service, Warenties and Gurantees

2009-04-02T11:11:00.000-05:00

My husband bought Transformers Stratego, a board game by Milton Bradley. It was on discount at 'The bargain shop' and I think I know why....

It was missing the stickers you put on all the little pieces, in other words the game was unplayable.

That was about a month ago, today I looked at the box and they listed their website. From there I navigated the page to find the customer service phone number. I called them during regular business hours and explained that I bought the game a month ago and told them about the piece that was missing. She then took my information and said that they would be mailing me the missing stickers for free.

This is the kind of service I regularly get when I call companies. I say this because I know that people are afraid to call companies to complain sometimes, but they will usually do their best to satisfy your needs.

Did you know that most companies guarantee their product? They want you to be happy with it!

Here are a few more examples of times I have called customer service and been totally satisfied.

Last year I bought a $50 breast pump for milk for my baby. I only bought the one for occasional usage, not the heavy duty one and I used it too much and it broke. I called the company that made it (the first years) and after walking me through some troubleshooting steps and found it was beyond repair they replaced it with a more heavy duty model. I only had to pay shipping to send my broken pump back to them. I saw the newer model at the store and it was worth $150!

Several years ago after Halloween I bought some Halloween M&Ms discounted at the store. They came in small individual bags and I was putting them in my lunch. I was disappointed to find that some of the bags of candies only had 2 or 3 M&Ms in them, so on a whim I emailed the company about it. They called me a few days later, apologized and mailed me coupons for $10 of free M&Ms. Funny thing though, Christmas was coming so just after the holiday I stocked up on $10 worth of discounted red and green candies. That was a lot of candy....

Pretty much the same story about Bicks pickles. I bought a jar of mixed veggies and there was only one pickled onion in the jar, sent them an email and they called me get my information so they could send me coupons for 2 free jars of pickles. Well the coupon didn't state what size the pickle jars had to be so I went to the superstore and got the biggest jars they had. This was just last year too.

More recently, my baby gate broke (1st choice brand). From wear and tear I guess. I called the company and they mailed me a form to send them back with the broken piece from the gate. I am now waiting the coupon for a free baby gate to replace the broken one.

Here's my point. Companies have a customer service and will guarantee most anything they sell. They want you to be a happy customer and want you to try their products again. They hire people to do this. Nervous about calling them, send an email. There are often email addresses on the company website as well as phone numbers. I have also never had to prove purchase with copies of receipts when contacting the companies directly.

Stores also guarantee the items they sell. I know many big box stores will accept exchanges on many products so long as you have the receipt. Wal*Mart is particularly good when it comes to returns with a receipt and will exchange anything within a year so keep those receipts! I find a lot of stuff from Wal*Mart breaks so this is handy to know.

I wonder though. With the board game I called about today, could you call about a game you bought used? She never asked me where I bought it, just when. They do want you to be able to use their game and play with more people to get them to buy their own copy too so it wouldn't be stealing unless you lied if they asked whether or not you bought it used.

I will have to try it next time I buy a used board game that is missing pieces. But then again, sometimes it's fun to use random marker pieces.

$5 challenge

2009-04-01T11:52:00.000-05:00

Living with Lindsay is having a $5 craft challenge. The button has been there on the right for a little while now. Have you noticed it? Either way, I decided to use the cute box tutorial that I posted in February as my entry, but add to it a little bit to freshen it up.

The directions are the same, but I prettied up 2 boxes that I use several times a day.

These boxes under my baby's crib hold her clothes and her diapers. Kind of like a make shift drawer they were meant to be a temporary measure until we bought a new dresser for her. They are in such a convenient place and just the right size though they have been there about 6 months now.

This is them all wrapped up like presents.

Lowering the safety bar for the crib keeps the troublemaker out of the "drawers".

Check out other crafts that have been entered into this contest at Livingwithlindsay

MYO Laundry detergent

2009-03-31T11:22:00.002-05:00

There are so many tutorials for making your own laundry detergent online and I actually use a recipe that I found and did not make my own. I found mine on Wikihow (can you tell I use wikihow a lot?). The tutorial is for a liquid detergent which I have made with a friend and I regularly use the powder version in the video on the same page. So for this reason I will not post another tutorial because that would be redundant. Instead, please check out the tutorials for the wet and dry versions already available at Wikihow. I can vouch for both those recipes since I have used them myself.

The page of tutorials is HERE

Some benefits of home made laundry detergent:

Save $$$. I bought all the washing soda and the Borax at Wal*Mart for about $3 each. Doing about 10 loads of laundry a week one pair of boxes lasts several months. The two I have were bought about 6 months ago and I am about half way through the box. This is with giving some away too.

Save time. It only takes about 10 minutes t0 make, believe it or not. As you make it more and more often you get better and faster. You will get used to having all the tools ready and make less of a mess too. This is faster than going to the store to get some!

Save more money on more cleaning products. The combination of borax and washing soda can be used to clean many things. I use about 1/4 cup of both with 4 gallons of water and use it where I would an all purpose cleanser. I even wash windows with it. The borax has recipes on the side of it for other cleaning uses. This mixture is great for washing the toilet too.

Works in HE washing machines. I have not personally used it in high efficiency washing machines but have been researching this kind of soap online and have seen multiple reports that it works in HE machines. HE washing detergent is more expensive than the regular stuff so this is really something people with HE machines should be doing.

Clothes doesn't get stinky. Ever notice how sometimes when you forget the laundry in the machine overnight it gets a little stinky and you have to re-wash it? Well this laundry detergent stays fresh even after sitting in the machine for long periods of time. No re-washing!

Easy to alter to your personal needs. Sensitive to soaps? Are your kids sensitive to cleaners and can only use mild baby soap? Use a very mild soap or a baby soap in place of the regular bar of soap called for in the recipe. You can even add a few drops of an essential oil if you like a lavender sent or any other sent in your laundry detergent or any other cleaner you might make with these ingredients.

I really hope everyone does this. It will cut down on your cleaning bills!

Fun with plastic bags

2009-03-30T11:00:00.001-05:00

Unless you are super smart and remember to bring cloth bags with you to the store you probably have too many plastic bags under your sink or in the pantry just waiting to get thrown out or recycled. Well what if there were uses for these things? Turns out there are many hings you can do with old plastic bags.

One great thing to do with them, for anyone that sews, is to fuse them together to become one thick plastic sheet that can be sewn like fabric to make anything from purses to rain coats to shoes to new shopping bags to whatever. It becomes hard to tear but you can still cut and sew it.

A really simple bag fusing tutorial with video can be found on etsy.com's how to section and another tutorial with a slight difference at cut out and keep. There is also a tutorial on the threadbanger website on how fuse the plastic and also make a padded laptop case with the newly fused plastic.

Threadbanger mentions that you should not use pins when sewing the fabric but that you should use bobby pins instead to prevent having too many holes in your 'fabric'

Another great thing is good news for people that like to crochet and knit is to make plastic bag 'yarn'. This is also really simple and again you can make bags or anything you would normally knit or crochet, even dresses.

HERE is a tutorial where you knot strips together. I personally don't like knots when I am crafting so I use this tutorial found at wiki how.

Just for a larf, before typing this up I used the search option on wiki how and looked up more tutorials for things to do with plastic bags and found a few of interest.

How to make a kite from a plastic bag

How to use a plastic bag as a salad spinner

How to make a plastic bag poncho for your dog

How to weave a plastic bag into a purse

How to make a vase from a plastic bottle

2009-03-27T11:59:00.000-05:00

I found this tutorial on wikihow.com

There is really a lot of information on there. Go to the Wikihow to make a vase from a plastic bottle page to learn more about making this vase but I have posted the basic tutorial here.

Here is the finished product. Much more elegant than you would have thought for a recycled bottle, eh!

Anyhow, now for the tutorial.

You will need a plastic bottle, like the 500 ml kind that had pop in it, scissors and some decorative stones.

Steps

Mark and cut the smooth middle portion of the bottle to give an even edge approx 7.5 to 8cm (3") above where you want the fluted rim to be.
Measure and make straight, evenly spaced cuts all the way around the bottle. Cut the segments in half and then cut each of those in half to make even, thin strips.
Carefully press and fold all the strips outward to make a level edge all the way around.
Press the bottle upside down on a flat surface to ensure an even edge.
Weave the tip of a strip over the next one and under the next two. Fold and crease it so that the tip is at the place shown here by the arrow.
Fold and crease the next one the same way, but weave this one over two and under one.
Fold the third strip and weave the same as the first one.
Continue around in this pattern until the last three and tuck each one under the next until woven in completely.

[edit]Tips

Be sure to maintain the regularity of the creases.
Because the plastic will be very lightweight, add marbles, beach glass, or decorative stones in the vase to provide a weighted base.
When you add the marbles and stones and allow the light to shine through your vase, it will produce beautiful, stained glass-like colors.

Glass jar photo frames

2009-03-26T11:40:00.000-05:00

Found on Photojojo is a use for all those glass jars you've been collecting.

Photojojo writes:

We hate getting rid of jars. We’re so sure they’ll come in handy someday, but in reality a person can only use so many jelly-jar glasses.

We’re happy to say we’ve finally found a use for our motley collection of pickle jars, soda bottles and assorted glass receptacles: frames!

It’s so simple we can’t believe we didn’t think of it before: just slide a photo into a jar, turn it upside down and display your upcyclin’ genius for all to see.

Make your own : Secret hollow book

2009-03-25T11:07:00.000-05:00

This tutorial has been taken from W ikihow

View the full tutorial at Wikihow's secret hollow book page

A hollow book can be a nifty way to hide something, whether it's a spare key, a secret note, or even money. Most people wouldn't think to browse your library for private or personal things. It's also a great way to pass something to someone discreetly--an unsuspecting onlooker will just think you're sharing a very good read!

Select a book, preferably a thick one with a sturdy hard cover.
Select the first few or as many pages as you want and hold them to the front cover with plastic food wrap so they do not get messed up with the glue. These, except for the last one of these pages, will not be cut out. This will allow the book to look like a book when it is opened up and will cover the hole itself. The page nearest the hole will be glued later on and explained in the last step.
Mix a solution of white glue and water. Make the consistency just enough for the glue to be runny, and absorbed by the edge of the book's pages. 50% to 70% glue (30% to 50% water) or half a 35mm film canister full usually works well, but use your judgement given the thickness and size of the book. Alternatively, try a craft glue like Mod Podge.
Hold together all the pages after the one you set aside earlier and brush the edges with the glue solution so that it is reasonably absorbed. This will hold them together. Remember: Clean the brush off immediately, or else it will harden and become useless.
Let the book dry for fifteen to thirty minutes. Place a sheet of plastic food wrap in between the glued pages and the page(s) (if any) that will not be cut (including at least the previously selected page and the front cover) so that they do not touch and stick together. Place something heavy on top of the front cover so as to apply pressure.
Open the book to reveal the first glued page. Draw a half-inch (1.2 cm) border within the edge, on all four sides (including the spine).
Cut along the inside of the drawn line with a straight edge knife (a box cutter works especially well). Try to make the cut as vertical as possible, or else try to tilt it so the hole will narrow as you go down. Using a ruler, as shown in the image, can help a lot. Apply enough pressure to cut a few pages at a time.
Continue cutting through the layers. Do not rush this step, because the slower and more carefully you do this, the smoother and straighter the inside edges will be. Remove the bits of paper from the inside that accumulate from the cutting.
Brush the glue solution onto the inside edges of the hole and allow it to soak in. The glue dries clear, so if it drips a little, do not be concerned. While waiting, apply a second coat of glue to the outside edges of the pages.
Brush the "frame" of the hole with a light coat of glue. The saved page will be glued directly on top of the hole, essentially covering it (for now).
Close the book again, this time without any spacers. Allow it to dry for about 15-30 minutes. In this drying phase, the saved page will become affixed to the hole, as mentioned in the previous step.
Cut the saved page along the edges of the hole so that the hole is visible and accessible once again. The insides of the book may still be moist because the book had been closed while drying. Now is a good time to let the book dry while it's open.
Check to make sure every part of the book is thoroughly dry. Touch it with your fingers, and when you are certain it is dry, fill it with your treasured items, shut the book, and put it in the bookshelf. Only you will know that this book has a compartment because it will be surrounded by many other books!

Faster sweet popcorn

2009-03-24T11:22:00.002-05:00

We interrupt this blogcast to bring you a special bulletin.

I have been experimenting with more flavours for popcorn lately and made this little mix that rocks my sweet tooth without having to cook the caramel.

It's simple, just a mix of white sugar with brown sugar sprinkled on buttered popcorn. Cinnamon and sugar works out well too.

We will now return to our regularly scheduled programming

NIN|JA & BNL- Free download

2009-03-21T11:29:00.001-05:00

Free and legal music is all over the internet, if you know where to look.

Artists often have an early release of an album or some singles available for download and that's exactly what I have for you today.

This new Bare naked ladies album has been made available exclusively as a free download until March 27th. Click here to give it a listen

Download the 6 track EP of the NIN|JA compilation album. This album is rock and has explicit lyrics.

Download the the official website http://www.ninja2009.com/

Enjoy your music without the price tag, guilt free!

Free swimming

2009-03-20T09:02:00.007-05:00

Tim Hortons Free March Break Swimming Schedules

Capacity restrictions apply

Free March Break Swimming is currently only offered in the provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan and only at the locations listed on the Tim Hortons website.

Local swimming schedules

Free swimming in Manitoba can be researched at the Winnipeg.ca/cms website. There are many pools that have a scheduled time of day with a free swim that can be open to anyone or just youth.

Winnipeg:

Indoor Pools
Outdoor Pools
Wading Pools

Don't live in Winnipeg MB? Google your local pools, you maybe surprised that they also have free swims or Loonie/Toonie swims.

Make your own : kids clothes out of old fabric (Some adult clothes too)

2009-03-19T10:20:00.001-05:00

Do you have old clothes or pillowcases? Maybe a t-shirt you love but grew out of? A yoga mat?

There are a lot of ways to re purpose that old clothes into new clothes or accessories for kids, baby, and even yourself! The skill level varies from beginner to expert and there are even some no-sew options.

These tutorials are not all made from re purposed clothes, but I have been finding that old pillow cases or old clothes are small enough to make into kids clothes. Also sheets are great places to get cheap fabric, they can be bought second hand or even new for under $5 or you may have some sheets you are never using that can be cut up too. Dollar stores, giant tiger and thrift stores all have cheap clothes, towels and fabrics that can be used too.

Beginner - No sewing machine

Hand stitched Pillow case dress (Video)

Arm warmers (It says sewing machine but can be hand stitched or not stitched at all - made from socks)

Fingerless gloves (Made from socks, no sew, no glue)

Flip flops made from a yoga mat (Materials include a glue gun, I am not sure if other glue works)

Novice - Sewing machine recomended but very simple instructions

T-shirt into baby romper (Uses Velcro closure)

15 minute dress (Uses bandannas and ribbon)

Bandanna skirt (I think this would be a little short but you could use any fabric)

Twirly skirt (So easy you could make a million of these)

Scoodie (Scarf/hoodie made from an old hoodie - Video)

Apron, pants, necktie, halter top, halter dress (All from bandannas)

Pillowcase dress (very similar to above, but with a sewn edge - video)

Baby dress / Tunic (Similar to the pillowcase dress)

Wrapper bib (Made from old food wrappers. Cool!)

Sweater wrap (Featured on the Rachael Ray show. Tute starts about half way through the video, after the Q&A)

Doily racer back (A t-shirt with doilies on it. Very cool!)

Kids skirts from dish towels (Are you too frugal when you are dressing your kids in rags and towels? These look so cute!)

Kids apron from a place mat (Use an old one on hand or they have cute place mats at dollarama!)

Adult or kids apron from a tea towel

Advanced - It's advanced... For those with experience sewing with a machine and terminology

Button shirt to toddler dress (Detailed tutorial)

t-shirt dress (Another very detailed tutorial)

Skirt from bed sheet (Adult size skirt)

Dress from an old work shirt (I have to make this one for myself!)

Dress from a sweatshirt (another adult size)

Space man hoodie from 2 sweatshirts (Awesome video!)

Corset out of dollar store materials (Has to be seen to be believed)

Dress from shower poofs (Really.... yes)

Boxers from an old pillow case (When you need to cover your butt instead of your pillow)

Repurpose: empty food boxes + scissors = drawer organizers

2009-03-18T11:27:00.000-05:00

I had to share this neat organising idea I found over at Bella dia's blog. Her tutorial is HERE.

I thought if you did not want to look at cardboard every day you could line the inside of the boxes with cupboard liners like I did in this tutorial (only line the inside of the box instead of the outside) but that might take a long time. I will be sure to do this if I need extra drawer space though. Those drawer organisers can be pricey.

Make your own: Caramel popcorn and other awesome corn!

2009-03-17T10:43:00.005-05:00

After yesterday's popcorn post I decided there needed to be some elaboration on the caramel, cheese, and spiced corn varieties.

These are fantastic and need to be tried if you love cheap snacks and are also awesome to serve to guests.

Note: 1/2 cup of kernels makes about 10 cups of popped corn and is the amount of popcorn used in these recipes

I also use margarine when I make these

Cheese corn is really really easy.

One super simple way is to sprinkle the buttered popcorn with grated Parmesan cheese or powdered cheese (you can get this in the bulk foods section or take a packet out of a box of KD) toss to coat and you're ready to eat it.

If you want a real cheesy popcorn you can melt one cup the kind of cheese you like, cheddar and mozzarella are favorites in my house, with 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine. Stir constantly until it is melted . The popcorn will have to be in a really large bowl for this or you can do it in batches if you have a lot. I like to pour some of the cheese sauce on the side of the bowl and not right on the cheese (otherwise I find there is a chance to get a handful of soggy popcorn but this is not really a big deal) and toss and stir the popped corn to coat, it will harden as it cools down so toss vigorously and quickly.

Caramel popcorn can be made with lots of different ingredients but the idea is the same. This method uses a syrup which can be maple syrup, honey, corn syrup, pancake syrup etc. the different syrup you use will give you a different taste but it's all good so just use what you have. Melt 1/2 cup of butter or margarine with 1/2 cup syrup, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss with the popped corn and anything else you want to add like nuts, M&Ms chocolate chips or just leave it like it is. bake on a greased baking pan or casserole dish at 300 degrees (Parchment paper or foil underneath keep it from sticking too) for 15-20 minutes stirring every 5 minutes. It's done when it starts to look toasty.

Let it cool completely.

There are so many ways to season or spice popcorn that it is impossible to list them all here but here are a few ways. Feel free to substitute ingredients like sea salt for ordinary salt or anything else you have on hand that you might like. It's about personal taste and what you have in your pantry.

Since everyone like a different amount of flavour on their popcorn I think it's a good idea to put one tablespoon of each spice in a small bowl, mix, and then sprinkle the seasonings on the buttered popcorn a little at a time. When you find a flavour you like extra can be made and stored in a container or spice shaker so it does not have to be remixed every time.

Indian - Ground cumin, curry powder, fine salt

Asian - Wasabi powder, sugar, sea salt

Tex-Mex - Chili powder, brown sugar

Italian - dried oregano, dried basil, grated Parmesan cheese

Curry salt - Curry powder, salt

Black pepper and parm - Ground pepper, grated parmesan cheese

Chili cheese - Chili powder, grated parmesan cheese

Garlic - Garlic powder or garlic salt

BBQ - (this one makes a lot and is great on steak too!) salt, sugar, chili powder, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, cumin, oregano

Spicy - Red pepper flakes, chili powder

Hot mustard - mustard powder, thyme, ground black pepper, a dash of cayenne pepper (it's hot!)

Bottled seasoning mix can also be purchased at the grocery store or specialty stores (Dollar stores sell them too). It doesn't need to be a popcorn seasoning mix to be good on popcorn. I like mixes such as,

Chicken seasoning

Steak seasoning

Italian spice mix

jerk seasoning

pizza seasoning etc

Candy is my fathers favorite topping for buttered popcorn. Top with your favorite kind of candy bar (crushed), M&Ms or smarties, chocolate covered nuts, Reece's pieces, etc.

Bacon is a great topping for popcorn. place 8 slices of bacon (more if you want it really baconey) on a rack in a backing pan and bake at 400 until crisp, about 12 minutes. Coarsely chop and toss with popcorn. This is great with a little brown sugar sprinkled on the bacon before baking and a spice combination of your choice or cheese powder tossed in the popcorn too. use the bacon drippings instead of melted butter topping or in place of the oil when cooking for a real baconey taste.

There are much more recipes all over the Internet. Popcorn.org has a lot of recipes and nutritional information about popcorn if you want to do more research.

Use your imagination and experiment! the possibilities are endless.

Make your own: Microwave popcorn (Stove top instructions too)

2009-03-16T11:14:00.002-05:00

I love popcorn but it's hard to stomach the price of the microwave variety . There are other solutions though. Making your own microwave popcorn is really simple, even your kids can do it, and homemade popcorn costs about 4 cents a cup!

Paper bag method

You will need 1/4 cup of unpopped kernels and a brown paper lunch bag

How to:

Place the kernels in the bag and fold the top over tightly a few times

Microwave on high for about 2 minutes or until popping slows. Time will vary slightly with each microwave.

That's it!

Eat, eat! Yum yum yum! This doesn't make a lot, only one serving.

Stove top method

You will need 1/3 cup oil (I used canola), 1 cup unpopped popcorn and a large pot with a lid

How to:

Heat the oil in the pot until hot but not smoking and then add 3 kernels. Loosely close the lid to let steam escape and wait until those kernels pop. When they do the oil is hot enough. I take out those popped kernels and discard them but you don't have to.

Add the rest of the kernels to the hot oil, place the lid back on top (still with room for air and steam to escape otherwise you will get soggy popcorn)

Listen for the popping and shake the pot occasionally to keep the kernels from burning and sticking. Once the popping slows down remove from the heat and serve.

This method makes 4 times the amount made in the paper bag method and is perhaps a better way if you are making a lot.

Popcorn is very versatile and can be seasoned many different ways, from caramel, to cheese, to butter and salt to whatever is in your spice cupboard. Experiment with what you like. Remember, air and oil popped corn are healthier than a lot of other snack foods out there (maybe not with caramel on it heh heh) so making the switch from a bag of chips to a bag of popcorn with spices on it isn't only cheaper but is also healthier too.

The paper bag method travels well too. Pack the bag with your seasoning (Salt, pepper or spices) in your lunch and impress everyone when you pop it in the workplace microwave. You might have to share though.

I have never put butter or margarine in the paper bag before popping and I no longer own a microwave so if someone does this can they please comment and let us know if that works.

I do not find a difference between the store brand kernels and the expensive name brand so I suggest pinching some pennies and get the generic kernels. Store the kernels in an air tight container in a cool dry place. Do not put them in the fridge because they will dry out there and they need to have some moisture in order to pop.

Toonie Matinees - Select Locations, Select Titles

2009-03-13T10:46:00.000-05:00

Empire theaters is (are?) having a twoonie matinee sale over the spring break check THEIR WEBSITE for more information on locations. They are across canada with diffirent dates for each province so take a look.

Here's Manitoba's listing

MANITOBA - March 30-April 03

BRANDON - Empire Capitol Theatre

WINKLER - Empire Southland Cinemas

WINNIPEG - Empire Grant Park 8 Cinemas

If you are in a different province check the listings for your area!! The dates are based on the school spring break so some locations start as early as Monday!

Freecycle your everything

2009-03-12T10:46:00.001-05:00

In an effort to de-clutter my life and my house I found Freecycle.org and never thought of the impact if would have.

Freecycle is living proof of that old adage, 'One mans trash is another mans treasure'. You can list items on their website that you no longer need and request items posted if you see something listed you would like. I personally use this website and recommend you do too. The types of items given and taken is so varied

Examples of items I have given away are:

Old door knobs

Cardboard boxes

Old electronics

furniture

used baby items

Examples of items I have received are:

A slow cooker/deep fryer

Dvd storage rack

A stroller

Bathroom shelves

Wood for shelving

Here's how it works:

After visiting Freecycle.org you need to find your local freecycle group. They are all listed on the website so type in your area to find yours. Freecycle is international with locations, well, internationally. Once you find the one right for your location you need to join it, to do this you need a Yahoo! account. If you have one great, visit that region's Yahoo! page, join and wait for approval. If you don't have one then you can make it HERE. Be sure to include your area in your Yahoo! account information or else you will be denied membership. Freecycle moderators want to be sure everyone using that region's service is in the right area.

Once accepted please read the rules and notices emailed to you or on the Yahoo! page. This is important. The rules are rather specific with details such as how to post items to give away or how to and how often you can request a specific item.

Using your local Freecycle Yahoo! page, post about items you have available to offer or items you want to request. You can also respond to other people's posts to contact them directly. Many times people get multiple requests for something they posted so if you are selected the owner of the item will contact you to make arrangements for a pick up or delivery time.

Remember, instead of trashing it, someone else might want it! Freecycle it!

Zellers colouring contest for kids

2009-03-11T11:28:00.004-05:00

A fun free thing to do with your little ones is to encourage them to enter contests. Free colouring contests like this one offered by Zellers are great and fun. What kid doesn't like colouring?

In this particular contest the prize is a giant chocolate bunny and the first 300 entrants at each store get a small bunny for free. This contest can be entered daily so your kids can colour one a day or do a bunch you just drop off daily if you are one of those people that enter contests like it's a job. People really do this so don't laugh.

You need to print off the colouring page and it comes in English and French so you can fill out whatever language you like or if you don't want to use your own ink they have the pages available at the Zellers stores too.

This particular contest is running at all Zellers stores across canada.

A tip for winning colouring contests from smartcanucks.ca

Hint: This worked for my daughter when she was little. I used to supply extra materials to add texture to her colouring page.

Supply bits of green wool (for the grass), or cotton balls (to make a fuzzy bunny), or glitter for a radiant sun.

Mothers/dads, just supply the material. Let your little ones create. This helps their colouring page stand out from the rest.

Free pledge and Irish springs t-shirt

2009-03-10T11:57:00.000-05:00

Just a few freebie links I found over at smartcanucks.ca

The first one is for Pledge

Click for Save.ca link

Since this comes from Save.ca the chance of this coming is very high. My unscientific opinion states it is 99.9999999% likely to show up. It will probably be in the form of a coupon you can redeem.

The next one is for an Irish spring T-shirt.

Click here for official website

When you get to that page, click the t-shirt on the right side and then pick the one you want and enter your information.

If you are selected you will get a com formation email. I ordered one for a few people and they were all selected, I think they select everyone until they are all out of shirts.

This one is very likely to come because it is a legitimate website, just be sure to order soon because this is only while supplies last and lots of people order more than one.

Money tips from the 'Ultimate Cheapskate'

2009-03-09T10:03:00.001-05:00

Recently MSNBC had an interview with Jeff Yeager, proclaimed 'ultimate cheapskate' with some tips and to plug his book.

It used to be that “stuff” made you cool. That is so 20th century. Jeff Yeager, the man dubbed the Ultimate Cheapskate by Matt Lauer on TODAY, offers a completely fresh take on personal finance, teaching us how to enjoy life more by spending less.

Click here to watch the interview

free tax software

2009-03-06T11:23:00.000-06:00

For those people with only simple returns this year, quick tax offers free programs. Specifically to Canadians with simple income (T4, T4A, tip income, pension income), college and university students with tuition fees for the 2008 tax year or Canadians with simple tax situations, including T4s & charitable donations.

To start click HERE and pick 'choose yours' under 'NEW! Free editions'

Pancake mix recipes: scones

2009-03-05T11:18:00.001-06:00

Scones are a great snack, they go well with tea or just eaten on their own and there are many different kinds you can make. This is a recipe that uses the pancake mix mentioned in an earlier post but can probably be made with any kind of pancake mix that requires eggs and milk (not the add water only kind) but have never tested this recipe with any other kind of mix.

This recipe is very versatile as you can change out the filling to make a different kind of scone easily.

A few examples of optional fillings:

Ham and cheese

grated apple and a pinch of cinnamon

raisins

cheddar

Parmesan cheese and a crushed garlic clove (I like this with Italian dressing in place of the oil)

Strawberries and bananas (used in this tutorial)

dried cranberries

Note that if you use something wet like strawberries and bananas or grated apple you will need a little more of the mix to compensate for the stickiness but a little sticky is okay.

Recipe:

1 cup Pancake mix (plus more for dusting)

1/4 cup milk

1 egg

1 tablespoon oil or melted butter

1/2 cup filling (optional)

Mix everything in a bowl, it will form a dough instead of the normal batter that pancake mix makes.

Shape it into a log and use a piece of thread to slice it into 4 pieces. To do this, get a piece of thread and slide it under the log, then cross the thread over the dough so that it slices the dough without losing the shape too much. You can use a knife for this but you will have to reshape the scones when you place them on the baking sheet

Put it on a greased baking sheet and bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes (10-15 minutes for plain scones) or until they start to get brown on top, then cool until it is not too hot to eat.

Serve immediately

Enjoy just like that or slice them in half length wise and top with butter or jam or whatever you like.

Plain ones are fantastic sliced and then topped with

a fried egg, a piece of ham and some cheese to make a biscuit egg sandwich (Similar to the ones they sell at Timmy's)

Make your own: Pancake mix

2009-03-04T11:56:00.000-06:00

Pancake mix is very easy to make and you can actually use it to make a lot of other things other than just pancakes like doughnuts, scones, and batter for deep frying all kinds of things just to name a few examples.

I won't be getting into all the recipes right now though, this particular post is about the mix itself and how to make pancakes with it.

You will need:

An empty container and any way you like to decorate it. This was one of the first things I made so it is not perfect (and doesn't have to be perfect) but it holds the stuff in and that's all that matters. Mine is an old coffee can with a piece pf paper I wrote my recipes for the mix on one side and a label on the other. Then I used packing tape to secure the whole thing together.

Recipe:

3 cups flour

2 1/2 tablespoons baking powder

2 teaspoons salt

2 tablespoons white sugar

Mix it all into your container and multiply the recipe to fill a large container. (this coffee can needs this recipe doubled)

I suggest writing the recipe with the multiplied amounts for your specific container right on the side of the package. This will make it easier for you in the future to make more mix or if you are giving it away as a gift the other person will be able to make more for themselves.

This is a great gift for students or other people living on their own.

Now I guess I should tell you how to make pancakes out of this. It's really easy.

1 cup mix

1 cup milk

1 egg

1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)

Mix this all in a bowl and then cook 1/2 cup at a time in a frying pan coated in a little oil. (Like you would any other pancake)

I personally don't use the melted butter, and it is also easy to add to this batter things like bananas and chocolate chips, blueberries or some other berry, or anything else you like in pancakes.

Like I mentioned before, there are lots of other things you can make with this mix but I will leave that for another day in order to entice you to come back and keep reading this blog (I am so mean!)

So come back soon!

Bottom of the jar recipes

2009-03-03T11:43:00.004-06:00

A frugal lifestyle doesn't waste anything, that's why I love Rachael Ray's "Bottom of the jar" recipes. They have lots on her website RachaelRay.com

A "Bottom of the jar" recipe is just that, a recipe using the little bit at the bottom of the jar or other food container and making it into something you can use. Usually the recipe consists of adding more ingredients into the jar and then closing the lid and giving it a good shake to use all the item but this is not always the case. Take a look at these recipes and you will get the idea. Many of them have videos to accompany the recipe.

-Rachael ray's bottom of the jar recipe index

Some other recipes include (but are not limited to)

- Creamy chicken glaze : Bottom of the salad dressing bottle

Add a little milk (about 1/4 cup) to the almost empty salad dressing bottle, put the lid on and give it a good shake. Roast or BBQ chicken pieces and add this sauce about 5 minutes before the end of cooking for a yummy flavoured chicken. This works best with ranch, blue cheese, Cesar or some other creamy dressing and is also great on pork.

- Fruit syrup : Bottom of the jam jar recipe (or honey bottle)

Add a little juice to the jam jar (or honey bottle) when it is too empty to scrap the edges any more and give it a good shake. You don't need much juice just enough to get the goodies off the side of the jar.

Any kind of juice and jam will do. I find orange juice goes well with everything and the same with apple juice but experiment yourself with what you have on hand

Pour this over pancakes or ice cream.

Let us know what some of your "Bottom of the jar" recipes are!

Two things in life are certain

2009-03-02T10:21:00.000-06:00

Death and taxes.

A few ways to help with taxes though are Canadian tax cuts and write offs.

Let's look at the tax cuts from this year first. There are many things you can claim on your taxes. Did you know you can claim your bus passes from last year? How about that soccer club you enrolled your kid in last spring? Do you or your spouse work in the trades? You can claim some tools they purchased last year. Did you know you can claim medical expenses?

This government website has a nice spattering of info that can probably help you.

If you are nervous about claiming too many things remember some tax places like H&R Block have a guarantee where if you get audited (happened to me once) they will send all the necessary documents to the government for you and if you incur additional cost from a mistake they made (like claim too much?) they will eat that cost. Maybe paying them $80 is a lot to pay for someone to do your taxes, but if you are looking at getting $500 back per child for their summer camp you enrolled them in, it may be worth it after all.

Blog? Do you?

The following I got from wisebread.com and is a list of 101 things you may be able to write off if you are a blogger or freelancer. I believe this is an American list, so if in doubt please contact a professional.

Here are the expenses you should look into deducting if you’re a blogger and/or freelancer, assuming they apply to your chosen blogging or freelancing field (you can’t deduct movie tickets if you have no reason to be at the movies…but if you have a blog all about movies and reviews, go for it).
As always, you need proof of this stuff. No good saying you bought 50 magazines last year if you can’t find the receipts. With the government hemorrhaging money, they’re looking for any opportunity to keep as much of your cash as they can. In the event of an audit (aaarggghhh) you want your finances to be watertight.
It’s also worth noting that your expenses shouldn’t really outweigh your income (although sometimes it's inevitable in your first year of business, taking into account start-up costs and so forth). But, if you made $1500 from your blogging adventures, writing off a $3500 computer system may trigger a big bad red flag. The IRS doesn't like it when you spend more than you make. And if in doubt, double check with an accountant.
Industry books & periodicals, including audio books
Other books and periodicals used for research
Library book charges
DVDs and CDs related to your blogging
Movie or theater tickets, if related to your blogging or freelancing
Music and TV show downloads
Magazine subscriptions
Research sites that require a subscription
Further education classes
Webinars
Business podcasts
Business-related websites (for me, that would be Adweek)
Memberships to professional clubs and affiliations
Internet access fees (at about $40 a month, that’s a biggie)
Public internet access fees (Internet café’s, airports etc)
Stock photo purchases for your blog
Search Engine Optimization services and fees
Paid site submissions
Website hosting fees
Website design and/or maintenance fees
Website/blog templates
Domain name cost(s) and renewals
Blog expenses (e.g. WordPress additions)
Film & Digital cameras
Web cameras
Handheld video recorders
Digital memory cards
Recordable CDs and DVDs
Zip drives
Photo printouts
Film & film processing
Printer ink and copier toner
Phone charging stations (e.g. at the airport)
Second phone line for your business/fax machine
Long distance charges related to business
Cost of phone/fax/scanner/copier equipment
Cell phone & PDA expenses (bills, equipment, accessories)
Personal voice recorders and memo machines
Business equipment rental
Computer equipment & peripherals
Computer upgrades (I had to upgrade my RAM twice last year)
Depreciation costs of computer equipment
Data storage (both online and external HDDs)
Any business related software (not games…unless you review them)
Software licensing fees
Anti-virus and anti-spam subscriptions
Unpaid invoices. If you do some work for someone, be it a simple blog article or a much bigger job, and you get stiffed on the bill, you can write off your loss.
Fees for other bloggers and freelancers. If you get overwhelmed and pay a friend or relative to help out, any money you pay that person for their assistance is a tax deduction.
Tax and accounting software
Tax preparation fees
Business incorporation costs
Costs for Trademarks or Copyrights.
Business logos and graphic design fees
Business cards, letterhead and other stationery (even stuff you print yourself)
Office supplies (everything from paper to paper clips)
Home office expenses. You can deduct the part of your home you use exclusively for blogging or freelancing as an expense, including a portion of the rent, water, heating bills and so on.
Percentage of your home insurance (for your home office)
Online self-promotion fees (that includes banners and Adwords costs)
Trade show fees
Advertising costs (newspapers, stickers, posters, postcards etc)
Photography fees (e.g. headshots, pack shots etc)
Photocopying/faxing fees
Transportation costs: car mileage; airline tickets; taxis; buses; trains.
Highway tolls
Parking fees
Hotel costs for business trips.
Cleaning & laundering services when traveling for business.
Costs of conferences, plus all related expenses (e.g. BlogHer)
Health insurance costs (if you’re self-employed)
Computer equipment insurance
Food and drink purchased on business trips
Client entertainment (be reasonable…not sure you’ll get away with Strip Club deductions)
Postage costs (Stamps.com is ideal for keeping track of postage, and the service itself is tax-deductible)
PayPal and Western Union fees
Post Office Box fees.
Safe Deposit Box fees.
Self-storage fees, especially useful if your files and records are spilling over into your garage and you need extra space.
Advice. Any professional advice you pay for that pertains to your business is a tax deduction, and that includes counseling or coaching.
Membership dues to labor unions (do bloggers have a union?)
Charity work or donations (this one’s tricky. It’s limited to your out-of-pocket costs, not the final cost of the product. In my case, I’ve done some writing for charity, which is not applicable because you can’t deduct time spent. But any materials used during your charity work can be deducted).
Prizes and giveaways. Here at Wise Bread, we give away some very nice things. Often, they are generously given to us as gifts to pass on to you, or readers. But when we go out and spend money on a prize to give away, that can be deducted, as well as the cost to mail it out to you.
Business furniture. If you use it exclusively for your blogging or freelancing, then anything from a chair or filing cabinet to the whole desk can be written off.
Business functions. If you hold a little get-together for clients, even just one or two, then everything from the rental of the room (or golf course…know what I mean?) to food and drink can be deducted.
Business lunches. You can't include your own meal, but if you pick up the tab at a power-lunch (or just a meeting with a potential client) you can write off their part of the check.
Props. I sometimes use props for photoshoots, and the cost of those props can be deducted.
Job search expenses. Any money you spend trying to get work, from postage to travel, is a deductible expense.
Alcohol and drug abuse treatment. If the pressure turns you into a Betty Ford patient, you can deduct the expenses of treatment. Let’s hope you never have to though.
Any losses due to theft. Away on business, your laptop gets stolen…write it off.
Moving expenses related to your blogging or freelancing.
You can deduct 50% of your self-employment tax
Home improvements. Turn the basement into a home office, those expenses are deductible.
Clothing and accessories. If you have to buy any clothing for a particular job (maybe you needed protective clothing & headwear to write an article about a building site) then those costs are also deductible. But don’t try and write off your new Gucci watch.
Business checking expenses. If you have anything more that free checking, it’s a deduction.
Business gifts. This is cool. If your mom watched the kids while you went off to do an interview or write an article, and you then bought her flowers or choccies, well, the gift is tax deductible. Very sweet.
Annual fees for business credit cards.
Physical therapy. Writing for eight hours a day can cause all sorts of problems, including the dreaded Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. I've been advised by many accountants that you can deduct the cost of that therapy. However, medical expenses are a complex beast, and usually need to be a percentage of your income. Check with your accountant for details.
Headache pills, eye drops and so on. If staring at the screen all day gives you a killer migraine, you can write off the cost of the meds to help you get through it and keep on working.
Wages. Say you pay your kid $20 a month to empty your office trash can, maybe as a way to earn an allowance. Well, you can deduct that expense.
Your dog. No kidding, if you can prove it's a guard dog and is protecting your equipment, you can write-off the doggie expenses.
Net operating loss. If your deductions outweigh your earnings, which often happens in your start-up year, you can use that loss to lower your taxes next year.
And one big final deduction you may want to think about:
Your TV cable or satellite bill. I can deduct it because I need it…I work in the movie business. It’s a very nice deduction, too. If you blog about soaps, movies, TV shows, or anything else in the entertainment field, this could be a nice write-off for you.
It's a big list, but even if only 25% of it applies to you, it could add up to a nice chunk of cash back in your pocket. And before I get chastised, I'm not against paying taxes. But when corporations are finding ways to jump through every legal loophole and pay almost no federal tax, I don't think it hurts you to take the legitimate tax deductions on the table.
Go stake your claim.

-----------------

I would like to add to this list, having a small business myself. Last year the guy at H&R block last year told me that because I use a room in my home in my office I can write off a portion of my gas and electricity bills as well as a portion of my mortgage. I also heard that I can claim donations to my church or other donations. I will be sure to ask the tax guy. I am going to be back to the same guy at H&R as last year because I know he can do a better job (and get me more money) than I ever could but if you have the confidence to do it yourself then do it but really look into what you can and can't claim! There may be money waiting for you.

Furoshiki

2009-03-01T11:08:00.003-06:00

Furoshiki is the Japanese process of wrapping items in cloth instead of using wrapping paper or even plastic and paper bags. It can be used for gift wrapping, bagging a lunch, carrying your books, and many other uses. Furoshiki has been used for hundreds of years and in 2006 Ms Yuriko Koike, Minister of the Environment, created the "Mottainai Furoshiki" as a symbol of Japanese culture to reduce waste. As part of this initiative the Japanese government put out this little poster about how to package almost anything using a piece of fabric.

Right click and save this image to your computer to see the full thing! (it is a large picture) If you are worried about giving away your fabric (I know I don't like to give away some silks or expensive fabrics) you can use this for gifts in the household like birthday gifts for your kids or spouse. When you give a gift ask for the fabric back or give the fabric as part of the gift and share the image above so your friend can save money too. You might get come nice cloth back when it's your turn to get a gift if you make this common practice.

It is very cute, very frugal, very environmental and wouldn't you be the trendy one this spring!

Get the most out of Goozex

2009-02-27T08:49:00.003-06:00

In case I didn't make it clear yesterday, I love Goozex! We are a huge gaming family and video games cost so much money. Those that game know that the system is a cash hog, then $40-$80 per game just adds up.

Gamers also know that EB or other retail stores that offer trade in give very little back, but there is another option.

I already explained Goozex.com yesterday so I won't type it out again but I thought I would walk people through their first free game with Goozex. Because free games rock.

First off you need to sign up. That's right SIGN UP! you can't get a free video game without signing up. There is no cost, they don't take your credit card info. You do have to give them your address but you will not be billed for anything. Also, while signing up you want to chose that you want your trading region to include Canada and USA (Bermuda too if you like, but I don't think there are many users from there) this will give you access to more users, will make your game come sooner and you will have access to more games too.

After you are signed up and logged in, you will see a page that looks like the image below. (Minus my scribbles)

Like the image says, pick the platform for the game you would like to receive and then click 'available'

This will bring up a page that shows all games that are currently ready for trading. Once on this second page pick how the games are sorted. In this case you want to sort it by points'

This will put all games that are worth 100 points on the first page. Remember, you get 100 points to start with and now you can see all the games you can afford.

Now go crazy. pick any game you are interested in. It's a free game, just get something you would like to try. If you don't like it you can always trade it back and get your points back or give it to a friend to try or whatever so don't be too picky. You won't be able to get the freshest newest game for 100 points anyways so just pick something that looks fun to you. (you can earn more points and save up for a newer game, I get more into that in a bit) To chose a game click the white 'want it' button under the image of the box. This will pop up a window that gives you more options like if you want to get the game with or without the box (without the box usually comes faster but boxes are nice) or if you want to put it on hold right now (You don't want to put it on hold at this time) and click done when you are done with that window (I usually just click 'want it' then click done) and then do it again for another game, and another game.

If you decide to continue to use this service, you can remove the games you don't really care much for. I suggest you keep using this service but please at least get your free game. I would give everyone in the country a free game if I could. Free stuff rocks so hard!

Anyways, after you pick your games just wait for something to come in the mail. That's it. If you like you can set your email settings in you 'account' page. I would suggest that if you never want to hear from them again, but if you plan on using this service you will need to get some emails like when someone requests a game that you have.

Like I mentioned before, you will not be able to get the hottest game but remember

PS3 can play PS and PS2 games

PS2 can play PS games

Nintendo DS can play GBA (or SP) games

Wii can play Gamecube games

Xbox 360 plays many xbox games (Check which games on their backwards compatibility website)

Don't know what games to get? Like Halo3? try Halo 2 for xbox. Like paper Mario? Try older versions of this game on gamecube.

Lots of good older games out there, don't pass them up because they are older. Also it's free, don't be so picky. If you don't like it, trade it back to the system and get your points back and get another game for the cost of one trade credit (or one dollar) or give it away to a friend or whatever you like.

Now a little something for those that chose to keep using the system. Here is how to get free trade credits (so you don't have to pay the dollar) and more free games for you.

On the goozex website there will be a referral code. Share this code with your friends. When you are at their house talk to them about getting free video games and sign them up using your referral code. Not the one you used to sign up because that is mine and I will get the perk for it (I would like to get the bonus but this is about helping you now). Go through the available games together and pick something together. When they get their free game and they give positive feedback (after using YOUR referral) you get another 100 free points and 1 free trade credit.

If you know only 5 people, get them a free game each and that's 500 points and 5 trade credits. this is without even sending a single game of your own or a penny out of your pocket. If you can sign up and get games to 10 people that's the worth of a new release game on goozex. This is a little work, but people like to get free games and it is really easy to convince people to sign up, especially if you do it for them or with them (ask permission before doing it for someone). Trade back any games when you are done with them to get more points and use the free trade credits you got from signing up your friends to get more free games. The cycle never ends and you can keep getting free games forever.

Please use this website if you are a gamer. you will save a lot of money and your friends will like to save money on games too.

Sending the games you are done with to Goozex is the best way to earn points, but this way you can do it without sending games if you like.

Shipping in a bubble envelope is aprox. $1.96 and you only pay if you decide to send your games out.

I think I made it sound more complicated than it is. This website is so easy to use you will love it.

Free WaW 'Makin' map pack for Call of duty

2009-02-26T18:39:00.003-06:00

http://majornelson.com/archive/2009/02/26/call-of-duty-waw-makin-map-free.aspx

just like the link says, it's a free new map for Xbox live gold members. You can set this to download next time you turn on your Xbox by following the link too. If you have Call of Duty and are a gold member, take advantage of this.

Not sure if the offer expires or not.

Swap it into something new

2009-02-26T12:44:00.007-06:00

There are a lot of websites out there that allow trades online. Some are totally free and for others there is a small fee like "trade credits" or shipping.

Books:

Book Crossing is a great place for book swapping. They have a system that is like a treasure hunt for books. You tag a book with their special code (BC-ID) and then "release it into the wild", meaning that you basically leave the book somewhere for people to find and then notify others on the website where you left it, so that someone else can find it.

You can browse other people's books and even email someone directly about a book you would like and request they email it to you. I have a friend that has gotten a lot of books this way and I have sent and received books in this manner.

There is no fee for this service but they recommend you buy their stickers and bookmarks. You pay postage for books sent (usually a few dollars) or just release them into the wild at no cost (you just leave it somewhere).

This service is worldwide.

Video games:

Goozex.com is a swapping website for video gamers. They offer games for PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC, Nintendo DS, PSP, PS2 PS and GBA. How it works is you list the games you own that you are willing to trade. When the game is requested you send the game for a point value.

For example, if you have Spore for the DS you list that you have this game on goozex. This game is worth 400 points. When someone else requests the game and you send it to them you will receive 400 points. Then you can use those points to "buy" another game, for example, Animal crossing:Wild world is 350 points.

This is a much better 'game for game' ratio than trading games to EB.

This service takes some time because someone needs to request your game and it goes through a list so people that listed the game first will be the first ones to send it.

This service is available in Canada, USA and Bermuda. European gamers can use Goozex.eu

There is a fee for this service. $1 to receive a trade (Trade credit) , cost of shipping to send. Under $2 to send a normal game in a bubble envelope. I carefully cut open bubble envelopes and send my game in a used envelope (taped paper over the old address) so I don't pay for envelopes but the envelopes are 3 for a dollar at Dollarama if you need to buy some.

Still, with the cost of shipping, this is still more bang for your buck than trading games in at EB or other game stores (Trade in 3 for 1 game??? YUCK)

Right now Goozex has an offer where if you sign up you get 100 free points and one free trade credit. This is the same as just getting one free game so you can see if the system works (It does, I have been using it for over a year and have gotten hundreds of dollars in games from this website) without any risk or sending in any games of your own. They also have a guarantee and a great customer service department and will give you your points back if you do not get the game or if the game is broken. I have never had to use this because I have gotten all my games in excellent condition. I highly recommend this website and if you sign up please list me as someone that referred you (My user name is Annchan)

Movies:

Zip.ca I have never actually used myself but have heard good things about it. It is like Netflix for Canadians in which it is a DVD rental website. Movies are delivered to your home with a postage paid envelope and you watch the movie, send it back, then the next movie you request comes in the mail. There are several different price packs to chose from.

Quote from zip.ca:

Watch all the DVDs you want in a month with our convenient 1-DVD Unlimited Plan for $10.95, the 2-DVD Unlimited Plan for $18.95, or the 3-DVD Unlimited Plan for $24.95.

New members are eligible for a free trial. Trial memberships last two weeks which gives you a perfect opportunity to try the service. If you are happy with the service and selection from Zip, do nothing and your membership will convert to a paying membership and will continue for as long as you want.

You can deactivate your membership at any time. There are no deactivation fees.

So in retrospect, there are varying price points, no shipping and is available in Canada. It's a little more than I would pay for movies but if you rent a lot it is worth your money. Cheaper than renting at the local store and no driving.

Speaking about renting movies, I signed up for blockbuster's and Rogers video's email newsletter recently (Read: before Christmas) and the newsletters contained free rentals and other coupons. I went to their website more recently though (Read: 5 minutes ago to verify) and it shows discounts like $1 off rentals with a different coupon every week. Other local rental places might have newsletters with free rentals or coupons for signing up too so check it out. If you rent from those places you might as well get something off (if not totally free)

There are a lot more websites like these on the web but have been having a hard time finding some that are available in Canada. Here are some other links that have been recommended to me but I have not been able to try them out.

USA only:

Paperback swap

DVD Swap

CD Swap

Please leave a comment with other links for swapping websites or other places for free or cheap entertainment. I would love to learn more and share the links. Thanks!

Make your own: cute storage box

2009-02-25T03:06:00.006-06:00

These cute storage boxes may not be the most durable but are very inexpensive, made with repurposed materials and are very cheery.

You will need:

-A cardboard box. Whatever size you like

-Scissors

-Liner for cupboards. I bought mine from the dollar store but are also sold at hardware stores. There are a lot of patterns to choose from. I even have a pattern that looks like a woven basket.

Cut the flaps off the top of the box and discard these, Then cut the shelf liner so that it will wrap around the box with some overhang on the top and bottom (see image)

If you want so line the inside with the pattern as well leave more overhang on the top.

Since mine is going on a top shelf I did not leave much overhang on the top and bottom because no one will see the inside or the bottom and this saves some liner for another use.

Peel off the backing from the liner and stick to the outsides of the box. I had to do mine in 2

pieces but just lined up the pattern so you can't tell. You will have some of the liner h

anging off the top and the bottom when you are done sticking it to the sides.

Be careful to stick the liner to the box tightly so to prevent air bubbles and wrinkles.

Cut a little slit on each of the corners and then fold the cupboard liner over the cardboard box bottom and over the top into the box.

once the whole box outside (and as much of the bottom and inside as you like) are covered you are done!

Use your box wherever you like, and it doesn't look like you are just using cardboard boxes as storage

UPDATE March 30th 2009: I made another one

This time with a smaller box. This one lives on top of my fridge. Looks cute to me!

This entry has been added to www.LivingWithLindsay.com 's $5 challenge

Check out her website. I really like it!

Edit April 1st 2009 - I have made even more of these HERE

Make your own: Bagged frozen fruit and veggies

2009-02-24T08:11:00.010-06:00

Making your own bags of frozen veggies or fruit is very simple and not really all that time consuming. This method keeps the food separated so you can just grab what you need without defrosting the whole bag, like when you buy frozen bagged foods from the grocery store.

I just happened to be doing strawberries yesterday so my tutorial is showing strawberries, but you can do this with any vegetable, fruit or even prepared foods like meatballs or chicken fingers.

Step 1: Have extra. I buy a lot of fruit and veggies when they are "reduced for quick sale". This offer will vary by grocery store but most places have a section where they have dying produce and can be substantially cheaper. With these strawberries, for example, there was one squished one in the bottom so it was marked down. Pick out the yucky bits, this means anything that you can't or won't eat and wash the rest of the food. Wash and dry the food like you would before you would eat it fresh.

Step 2: Prepare. If you had smaller berries you do not need to cut them, if you want frozen whole berries you do not need to cur them either. Personally I like the green strawberry tips removed and then cut into quarters so they fit in the blender nicely (I use them to make smoothies). You might want to cut your pieces so they are the right size for whatever meal you are thinking of or a smaller generic size or even leave things whole. This is personal preference. When you are done cutting everything to size place everything on a single layer on a baking sheet. If you are afraid of the food sticking to the sheet you can use parchment paper or freezer paper as a liner but I have found that I do not need the paper if there is no access water from the wash.

Step 3: Freeze this layer of food.

Step 4: After it is frozen, remove the items to a bag and enjoy your frozen foods.

Note: You don't have to do a lot at a time. This large bag of strawberries started out small. I found that my family was not eating a large box of strawberries before they went bad so I would freeze the left overs before they were no longer edible and, on top of buying them discounted when I saw it at the store, it added up to the large bag pictured.

This also works great with discounted meats. I put meat frozen in this manner in bags and then can just take out what I need. I have lots of different cuts of meat and chicken in the freezer and just grab what I need.

My family also has pizza every Friday and sometimes we like different toppings. A whole can of olives or a whole pepper or even a whole package of sausage is too much for one or even two pizzas so I freeze the left over toppings in this manner. Toppings can then be added to the pizza frozen and are defrosted while cooking.

As an example on how you can cook using frozen ingredients, the other day I made soup using frozen cooked, chopped, chicken thighs and frozen cooked, chopped, sausages. I took a handful of both meats and put them in a pot with a little margarine and some garlic. when the meat was slightly defrosted I added handfuls of different veggies from the freezer and added fresh chopped potato (Because I had none frozen). Covered the whole thing in chicken stock, seasoned it, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. No one knew it was frozen stuff. Good as new!

Another time I will give tips about freezing whole meals ahead. Hope you found this helpful!

The start of something new

2009-02-23T09:53:00.002-06:00

Welcome to 'Cheap 'N Cheerful'. There's nothing here yet but soon you will see the three T's

Tips

Tricks

Tutorials

All about living with frugality whether out of choice or necessity. Save money and live healthier by doing it yourself or with the help from a friend.

There are several blogs like this on the world wide web so what makes mine special? The Canadian angle., the lack of personal blogging in this space and the comination of crafts, projects and recipes all designed to save you money.

From home repairs to video games to dinner to fun activities, I've got your back.

Remember to keep a smile on your face and have fun!

Cheap 'N Cheerful

Craftster's hand made gift ideas

Coffee and hot cocoa mixes

Draft stopping critters

Home made pop tarts

Free Coldplay album, Left right left right left.

KY Cloud 10 sample (not for the kiddies!)

Moonlight Movies in the Exchange

Made by humans $5 T sale

Design By Hümans is having a truly -excellent- $5 and $10 sale today and don't know when it will end:

http://www.designbyhumans.com/shop/affiliate/foxtongue

What is Design By Hümans?

Free slurpee day '09

Out door pools open soon

Frugal finger paints

Free OB Tampons

Springs church charity car show

How to bake cookies without a recipe

Free light smoothie day at Orange Julius

Make your own chocolate syrup

Make your own sports drinks

Make your own Cleaning wipes

Wipe Out! Make Your Own Cleaning Wipes

Free Tim Hortons Iced Coffee

Enjoy a FREE Tim Hortons Iced Latte!*

Quick tip: Stir sticks

Spring cleaning party

31 cent ice cream at Baskin Robins

Quick tip - Coffee cubes

Contest tips part 2

Win something already! (contest tips part 1)

Financial Peace University

More things to do with T-shirts

Easter egg tips and tricks

Make your own Swiffer accesories

Pancake mix recipes: Deep fried goodness

Customer service, Warenties and Gurantees

$5 challenge

MYO Laundry detergent

Fun with plastic bags

How to make a vase from a plastic bottle

Steps

[edit]Tips

Glass jar photo frames

Make your own : Secret hollow book

Faster sweet popcorn

NIN|JA & BNL- Free download

Free swimming

Tim Hortons Free March Break Swimming Schedules

Make your own : kids clothes out of old fabric (Some adult clothes too)

Repurpose: empty food boxes + scissors = drawer organizers

Make your own: Caramel popcorn and other awesome corn!

Make your own: Microwave popcorn (Stove top instructions too)

Toonie Matinees - Select Locations, Select Titles

MANITOBA - March 30-April 03

Freecycle your everything

Zellers colouring contest for kids

Free pledge and Irish springs t-shirt

Money tips from the 'Ultimate Cheapskate'

free tax software

Pancake mix recipes: scones

Make your own: Pancake mix

Bottom of the jar recipes

Two things in life are certain

Furoshiki

Get the most out of Goozex

Free WaW 'Makin' map pack for Call of duty

Swap it into something new

Make your own: cute storage box

Make your own: Bagged frozen fruit and veggies

The start of something new

Enjoy a FREE Tim Hortons
Iced Latte!*