Heloise

Dear Heloise: I find that most of the time, I only use a very small portion of a tissue. I’ve found that I can tear them in half before using them and extend the uses out of a box this way.

I also find that when applying mascara in an attempt to make my lashes look longer, it ends up looking too gloppy. I now use a previously used but washed mascara wand to comb out the application, and it looks much better! — A Reader, via email

OPENING CHILDPROOF CAPS

Dear Heloise: Place the two-piece, push-to-turn pill lid with the opening down on a cutting board. Hit the lid with a hammer. If this doesn’t free the easy-to-turn pill lid, hit the lid harder. The cutting board is to protect the surface under the board. — John M., in Kirkwood, Missouri

John, you can simply ask your pharmacist to place your medication in an easier-to-open bottle instead of a childproof bottle. — Heloise

DON’T COUNT US OUT

Dear Heloise: I’m 88 years old and very active. When the weather is nice, I ride my bike to the supermarket or the farmers market just down the street from me. I volunteer at a local animal shelter. I paint in oils, garden, and have friends over for dinner. In June, I’m taking a vacation to England. I may be an old woman, but I’m not feeble. It irks me when people treat me as though I can’t carry my own suitcase. My son tried to take my bike away, and I told him that I’d have him arrested for theft if he did.

Many people in my age range can still do a number of things and resent the assumption that being old means being feebleminded, crippled with arthritis, or tired all the time. Much of life is about attitude, so stay positive, keep moving, accept change, and express gratitude! Don’t count us out, and please don’t treat us like children. — Louisa K., in California

COMMON SCENTS

Dear Heloise: I just read a remark from Joan B., in Olathe, Kansas, who thinks that “a world without fragrances would be pretty sad.” I can appreciate this perspective. Many people enjoy fragrances. Years ago, people wore fragrances subtly, and you had to hug a person to catch the scent clearly.

Recently, however, people are wearing more and more. Many now put on copious amounts of their preferred fragrance. They can easily be tracked by anyone walking through a hallway, on a sidewalk, or in an amusement park as they leave clouds of perfume behind.

While some folks find fragrances to be pleasant, it is actually poison for those with allergies and/or asthma. It can send people to the emergency room in an ambulance by severely impacting their ability to breathe. Being trapped in an elevator, a train or a plane with a person wearing a fragrance can be life-threatening for them.

We must all share the air. If you must wear a fragrance, press the nozzle one time in the air of your bedroom, walk through the mist, and call it a day. You will still be able to smell the fragrance, and it will allow others to remain healthy. We must all be considerate. — Heather B., in Southbury, Connecticut

DISHWASHER HINT WORKS!

Dear Heloise: To the gentleman who suggested putting dishwashing detergent in the bottom of the dishwasher and the receptacle, thank you! It has made all the difference. I was ready to buy a new dishwasher because no matter which cycle I tried, the dishes were not getting adequately cleaned. I am so excited that this hint worked. Thanks, Heloise, for printing it! — Nancy P., in San Antonio

SEND A GREAT HINT TO:

Heloise@Heloise.com