Ask the Miserly Mom: Cleaning, Grocery Budgeting, Bread and Scrapbooking

: I would like to know what you can use on walls to clean hairspray off? Hope you can help!

--Sandra

I would try dissolving it with something like Citra-Solv, which is a natural citrus based solvent that can be bought in most stores. Let it soak on it awhile. It may also require some hard rubbing to remove it, so be careful that the paint doesn't come off with it.

Thank you for all the hard work you do on the subject of $$$$$. It is nice to have the support. My question is, how much is a reasonable amount to expect to spend on a family of 6 for groceries? Keeping in mind of course that we try to serve healthy meals.

--Rose from Maine

When I was in my most tight of times, I spent $10 per person per week. So groceries for a family of 6 would have cost me $60 per week. For those just starting out in the frugal lifestyle, I recommend they start with $15 per person per week. That would cost a family of 6 $90 per week. If you buy organics, that number may go higher. To buy health foods, I order through a co-op so that we pay less overhead.

[Lynn here: You might also want to check out Grocery Secrets--the techniques there can save you a LOT of money.]

I am looking for a bread recipe that will make a soft, non-crumbly bread. I would like to not buy store bread, but my bread recipe is too hard and crumbly to make good sandwiches, toast, etc. Please help.
--Natalie Pope

If bread is too crumbly, it is too dry. Two things can cause that: either the recipe doesn't have enough moisture, or the baking time is too long. Try increasing the liquid content of the recipe by a tablespoon or two and see what happens. If that doesn't work, then try reducing your baking time by 5 minutes. [Natalie might also want to see Jean Sutherland's definitive two-parter on making 100% whole wheat bread here on TNH.--Ed.]

I want to know if anyone knows the cheapest way to do scrapbooking? Thanks, Rhonda

Being frugal deosn't mean we can't have nice keepsakes! I love to scrapbook, but have to keep it frugal. The first thing I do is to avoid the big name scrapbooking products. The pre-made scrapbooking binders, adhesive tapes, and stickers can all be done less expensively. I have had long discussions with those who feel that these companies are the only ones who make the best products for preserving your photographs. But I believe you can protect the photographs for less.

First, I use a nice 3 ring binder instead of the specially made scrapbooking albums. If there is a special event you are commemorating such as a wedding or family reunion, then the nicer albums may be the best choice. But for everyday family albums, a good 3 ring binder is sufficient. This means that your pages will be 8 x 10 sized. For the protective sleeves, you can buy acid-free plastic sleeves by the box full for a few dollars. For the sheets of acid-free paper, pens, scissors and stickers, I buy them from a hobby store when they go on sale. I often buy them in bulk packages since they are cheaper. I avoid the scrapbooking stores and home parties since these usually cost more.