Heloise

Dear Heloise: We make fresh fruit pops by freezing lemon-lime soda with different fresh fruits: pineapples, blueberries and watermelon. — Gaby E., in San Antonio

Gaby, one caution: I wouldn’t suggest this for the little ones; I’d recommend a plain pop. The fruit could be a choking hazard. — Heloise

WATER RESTRICTION REMINDER

Dear Readers: Many parts of this country are suffering from a drought. Before you water your lawn, be sure to check with your local water department to find out what, if any, water restrictions you have in your area. — Heloise

STICKY NOTE REMINDERS

Dear Heloise: I have a nasty habit of forgetting appointments for things like the doctor, hairdresser, dentist, etc., so I started writing a note to myself on sticky notes and posting them on my bathroom mirror. Now I no longer miss an appointment because the notes remind me. — Irene H., Beaverton, Oregon

VACCINES FOR PETS

Dear Heloise: Having worked at a veterinarian clinic for over 10 years, I feel qualified to recommend the following vaccines for dogs and cats:

All dogs should get the DHPP vaccine to avoid distemper and parvovirus. They also need a rabies vaccine. Rabies is contagious to all land mammals, including humans.

All cats should get the FVRCP vaccine (to protect against three viruses, including distemper), the rabies vaccine, and the feline leukemia vaccine. Even if your cat does not go outside, it can still pick up this viral killer from other animals.

Your pets are your responsibility, so make sure to vaccinate them yearly. — Raymond D. in San Antonio

BABY POWDER USES

Dear Readers: Here are some other uses for baby powder:

— Use it as a dry shampoo.

— Use it on sheets to help absorb nighttime perspiration.

— Sprinkle it in shoes to keep them fresh.

— Sprinkle it on a necklace to help untangle the necklace. — Heloise

PERSONAL SPACE

Dear Heloise: I was shopping the other day when I ran into a friend. She’s a very nice person, but if she stood any closer, she’d have been standing on my feet! I’ve met a number of people who don’t respect the need for some personal space.

At a deli counter last week, a woman stood so close to me that we might have been mistaken for conjoined twins! There’s no need to do this when talking to someone. Give others some breathing room. — Ellen R., in Anaheim, California

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Pictured are our keeshond, Bella, and her best girlfriend, Frankie the cat. — Kathy Lanksbury

Readers, to see Bella and Frankie, as well as our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.