DEAR HELOISE: I save containers of different sizes. When condiments and lotions get low in their containers, I transfer condiments, etc., to a smaller container, making it easier to get the item out when needed. This helps to keep that item from spoiling or drying out.
- Karen in New Mexico
DEAR READER: Have you ever needed a small amount of an ingredient and don’t have it in your pantry or refrigerator? I have compiled a pamphlet that includes lots of items that can be substituted for others, as well as recipes for homemade seasoning mixes. Did you know that a substitute for sour cream is 1 cup of plain yogurt and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar? This works just fine in a pinch.
DEAR HELOISE: I have a 5-year-old kitty that has had a hairball problem. I read that giving a kitty a small amount of olive oil will eliminate this problem.
After approval by the veterinarian, I started giving her some. No more hairballs, and her fur is soft and healthy.
- Virginia, via email
DEAR READER: It’s normal for most cats to have hairballs, especially long-haired cats, but olive oil is not the recommended way of dealing with them. Hairballs are caused by the cat’s hair that is swallowed as it grooms itself.There isn’t anything you can do to totally prevent hairballs, and it’s normal for most cats to have them. If your cat is coughing them up more often than normal, a visit to the veterinarian should be in order.
There are commercial products and foods made specifically for hairball issues. So call your vet to double-check.
DEAR HELOISE: Maintaining my enthusiasm and commitment to exercise has always been a challenge. To lessen the chances of excuses and sabotaging my good intentions, my workout clothes and gym bag with basic electronics are placed in a designated bedroom chair so they are the first thing I see in the morning. So far, so good.
- M.M. in Texas
DEAR HELOISE: I found a great way to store plastic grocery bags. I saved the sleeve from an old folding camp chair. It has a drawstring top and a shoulder strap. I cut a wedge from the bottom and filled it with my supply of plastic bags. I used the strap to hang it upside down on a hook in the pantry.
- Susan R., California
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email [email protected]
HomeStyle, Pages 40 on 09/21/2013