Dear Heloise: A recent column had the suggestion to freeze leftover tomato paste in a plastic bag for future use. For preportioned freezing, I scoop out leftover tomato paste by the tablespoon onto a plate or small cookie sheet that’s been lined with cling wrap, then put the lined plate/sheet in the freezer.

After about an hour, you can use the same cling wrap to wrap around the frozen tomato paste balls and place them in a small freezer bag to be taken out as needed. This greatly extends the life of the can and makes for easy measurement when it’s time to cook. I’ve found these frozen balls melt within a minute or two while cooking, so no need to thaw them out before throwing them into the pot or pan. — Marie S. in Ohio

BIRTHDAY GIFT

Dear Heloise: On my 90th birthday, my daughter came from out of state to celebrate with me. Her gift was cooking soup and delicious meals, which she stored in labeled containers in my freezer. Months later, I am enjoying every meal and thanking her for her love and thoughtfulness. This is a wonderful gift for any senior, especially one who lives alone. — Jan, Colorado Springs, Colorado

REUSING BLUEBERRY BOXES

Dear Heloise: I saved a few pints of plastic blueberry boxes. They are vented, so they are great for storing onions. No loose “paper” skins in the drawer of the fridge. — William Petticrew, via email

SURPRISES TO BRIGHTEN THE DAY

Dear Heloise: I read the letter from C.J. about surprises and thought I would add something that I do on occasion. When going through the drive-thru at a fast-food restaurant, I pay for the car behind me. I am sure that also brightens someone’s day. — G.G., Omaha, Nebraska

lost pets

Dear Heloise: I read your article about abandoned pets with interest. In addition to the message given, could you please advise people to have their pets microchipped when getting their initial shots? There’s a small one-time fee that’s good for the life of the pet.

Many lost pets (more cats than dogs) never find their way home when lost because they aren’t chipped. Some of the animals your writer called “dumped” may possibly be lost pets.

Please also let people know that they should take any found pet to a vet or shelter to be scanned for a chip. Most places don’t charge for this. Also, search Pet FBI (petfbi.org) or other sites for lost pets. Thank you for caring about pets. — Carole Gray, Hermansville, Michigan

CLEANING OUT CLUTTER

Dear Heloise: While spring cleaning, many of us will be cleaning out our main clothes closet. Most of us have a habit of collecting things or hanging on to a garment because we intend to lose weight, because it has a memory attached to it, or we only wore it once and we’re hoping to wear it again in the future.

But as you go through the closet, ask yourself, “When was the last time I wore this?” and “Does it still fit?” By the time you wear it again, it could be out of style or your tastes could have changed. Either have a garage sale or donate your usable clothing to charity.

Get rid of things that don’t belong in your closet to free up space. Throw out worn-out shoes and purses, and group things together, such as all jeans together, all sweaters together, all dresses together, etc. Organizing your closet is a step toward organizing your life. — Tiffany N., Provo, Utah