Dear Heloise: On these hot summer days, our bird friends need access to water. Consider getting a small birdbath. It doesn’t need to be fancy or have running water. Any shallow container will do. Toss in a few rocks so that our little friends can stand at the water’s edge. Change the water frequently.

Our bird friends will thank you, and you will see an increase in visitors to your feeders. Watching them splash about is great fun! — Deborah Wulff, Bakersfield, California

KEEPING GINGER FRESH

Dear Heloise: I read your column daily, but I have never sent in a hint before regarding keeping fresh ginger. Place unpeeled fresh ginger in a small air-tight container, then cover it with sherry. Refrigerate. Ginger will keep this way indefinitely. It is a great way to always have fresh ginger on hand. I always enjoy your hints. — Paula Shuman, in Los Angeles

REUSING PLASTIC TRAYS

Dear Heloise: I reuse the 9-by-11-inch plastic trays that are sold with presliced cheeses. Some have a flat center, while others are ribbed. Rather than sending them to the landfill, I use them in my kitchen. I place the ribbed one under my coffeepot to catch any leaks. The ribbing keeps the bottom of the coffee cup from sitting in any liquid. They are sturdy and do not buckle or warp from the heat.

I place the flat tray in front, covered with a paper towel to catch any drips when I pour a cup of coffee. — Judy Peterson, Boerne, Texas

TWO HELPFUL HINTS

Dear Heloise: Please tell your readers not to use olive oil as a lubricant. It is organic and will become rancid over time. Mineral oil is cheaper and is much better as a solvent for creaks and squeaks.

Also, have you seen the prices of honey lately? It is too expensive to use on your face. It’s better to just use plain petroleum jelly. A thin layer applied overnight will have your face as soft and smooth as satin in the morning. I’ve been using it for years and have very few wrinkles.

By the way, I’m 85 years old, and I love your column. — Lee Blotner, via email