HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: Here is this week’s Sound Off, about parking-lot exits:

“Why do stores and malls insist on planting bushes at the entrances and exits of their parking lots and then never trim them? They seem completely unaware that the bushes they planted several years ago grow up and out and become an obstacle and make a ‘blind corner.’ It means drivers can’t see who is coming or leaving, and have to jam on their brakes, hit or get hit.” - S.D. in New Jersey

DEAR READERS: I’m on board with you. Not only is it annoying, it’s very dangerous.

DEAR READERS: Here are some uses for those handy sticky notes. One of them may be helpful for you:

Mark your row when knitting.

Write address on when driving.

Label furniture when moving.

Write chores on one before a party.

DEAR READERS: Here are just a few of the letters you sent about using ironing boards:

Brenda in Virginia wrote: “When serving a buffet meal and space for food is short, I put up my ironing board. I put a tablecloth on it, and voila - instant sideboard for food.”

Cathy in Washington wrote: “I have a poster board that I lay on the ironing board to pin patterns on. It also is good for cutting out patterns. Or take it out to the laundry line and put the basket on top.No more stooping to hang out clothes.”

Florence in Nebraska wrote: “One holiday, I put my ironing board in the utility room, where it was a little cooler. I covered the board with newspapers and put all my pies on it.”

Valerie in Washington wrote: “For those who use an ironing board to support their suitcase in a hotel room, be sure to place a towel on the board. Be considerate of those who will be ironing their clothes.”

All great hints! Thanks for the letters.

DEAR HELOISE: Regarding uses for aquarium stones: I clean and dry them. Then when I get a gallon jug or bottle that is hard to clean on the inside, I put some in the bottle or jug with soap and shake. It shines up the inside. Then I save the stones for the next bottle.

• Don W. in Ohio 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]