DIY Life

The howl of pain could be heard for miles. Last week, my two-year-old daughter tipped the kitchen chair over onto my big toe. She was still in the chair, so all 38 pounds of her landed on my toe. When I was finally able to hobble over to the freezer, I discovered I didn't have any bendable ice packs. It is impossible to shape a frozen ice pack.

If only I had seen Uncooped's post, how to make a shapeable ice pack. I could have opened my freezer door, pulled out the ice pack, and given my toe the relief that it needed, but unfortunately didn't receive.

Why not mix up your own shapeable ice packs? All you need is one part rubbing alcohol and 3 parts water, a plastic zippered freezer bag, and a marker to label the bag. These ice bags will work great for the next time you get an ouchie somewhere a non-bendable ice pack will not work.

[via:Lifehacker]

Depending on where you live, winter driving can be anything from an adventure to just plain stupid. If you are going to be out on the roads there are some car preparation and driving tips that are crucial. How to Winterize your Car.....and your Brain for Winter Driving outlines important tips, from preparing your car for the season to safe driving behavior and habits in specific conditions. Along with their tips, they have a supplies checklist for a vehicle emergency pack.

Vehicle emergency pack

1. Flashlight
2. Flares
3. First-aid kit
4. Blanket
5. Warm winter clothes
6. Bag of sand or salt (to use for traction if your tires get stuck)
7. Snow-brush, ice scraper and snow shovel
8. Wiper fluid
9. Paper towels
10. Food and water

You might already have some of these things in the trunk, but have a look through and make sure everything still works. Add the items you're missing and throw them together in a backpack. Hopefully you only ever need to go in there for some sand or an ice scraper, but if you do ever find yourself needing flares or warm blankets, it could save your life.