Homemade Goodness

I've recently come to the conclusion that just about anything is better homemade. Not only is it usually cheaper but also oftentimes produces a higher quality end result; this is true not only of various home prepared foods, but also standard household items. Over the years I've gathered some sweet thrifty ideas from various friends and family members, so here, for your viewing eyes only, are some hush-hush homemade helpers:

• Vinegar - A useful cleaning solution- chemical free and cheap. If you plan to use it for large areas just add a few drops of an essential oil to give your home an enjoyable odor (sweet orange, clove and sage are just a few). *idea from an old friend who cleaned houses for a living*
• Freezer Soup - This stuff is awesome. Just gather the leftovers you can't bear the thought of eating again, and throw them in a baggy in the freezer. Strangely, the varied and odd assortment of foods you've had over the last few weeks when mingled together with some chicken broth and diced tomatoes usually turns out quite well. One tip to give some serious flavor to this recipe: add some bacon or ham; it'll be irresistible! *idea from Auntie Noel*
• Baby Wipes - A simple way to save on baby wipes. Pick a sturdy paper towel (such as Bounty or Viva), and using a bread knife, cut into thirds (you'll want to do this over the sink as it does shred some); cut out the interior cardboard piece too. Place one section in a cylindrical plastic container (Rubbermaid #8 works well), and add a dash of baby soap (approximately 1 Tbs.) and a cup of water. Allow the mixture to stand for 20 minutes or so, and viola - baby wipes. (Pull wipes from center first where cardboard was removed) *idea from a dear friend who cares for 3 children in diapers!
• Diapers - No I don't make my own diapers, but in an effort to conserve, diapers are limited to no more than 2 per day. . . NOT (to revive a favorite American phrase). No there's no conserving on the diapers, and I'd venture to say everyone with whom we come into contact with is happy about that one ;)

So if you should get a *wild hair*, give one of these ideas a try! Sure it takes time, but you may discover in the process the joy of conserving and creating.