DEAR HELOISE: If I have a "to do" or shopping list, I simply text it to myself. Whenever the information needs updating, I copy the prior text, paste it into a new text box, edit what needs updating and send it to myself again.
Since we all have our cellphones with us, this is a lot easier than little slips of paper, which are easily misplaced. Just be careful not to put overly sensitive information (passwords or PINs) on those texts.
-- Mario F.,
Mission Viejo, Calif.
DEAR HELOISE: I read your article about dog treats. What about cats? Do you have any suggestions about treats for them? The only people food we've found that our tom likes seems to be ham.
-- Terry in Amarillo, Texas
DEAR READER: I did not mean to slight our feline friends. Some "human food," within reason, is a nice treat. When you have chicken, cut off small pieces and then treat your cat -- just a few little nibbles at a time. Can we say "tuna"? What cat wouldn't love a treat or two of tuna?
Do also check a pet supply store. Most carry cat grass seed. The directions on the packaging explain how to sprout cat grass. Seeing sprouts? Move the container to a sunny spot and mist. When it's 2-3 inches tall, present it to your cat and see what happens.
Even though your cat likes ham, it probably is very rich and high in sodium for a cat to ingest. Remember, these furry friends don't drink much water. Check what your veterinarian suggests. These creatures do have a mind of their own, so it might take a little time to find just the right treat.
DEAR HELOISE: If you have a broken fingernail that needs fixing, you can use instant glue, then cover it with nail polish. Right now, my badly broken nail has been protected for three weeks.
-- Sue D.,
Costa Mesa, Calif.
DEAR READER: Yep, I've done this forever. Do note that one or two drops is better than a big glob of glue.
DEAR HELOISE: When I'm frying a lot of hamburgers, I put a hole in the center of the patty -- like a doughnut. It will fry faster and more evenly. I put a slice of cheese and some ketchup on each patty, then it goes into a hamburger bun and I freeze them for later.
-- Ann K., Jackson, Mich.
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
HomeStyle on 02/21/2015