DEAR HELOISE: I wish parents/employers would teach kids/employees to count back change. I think it would be a good lesson and habit to get into.
If you buy an item that's $1.49 total and pay with a $20 bill, you get $18.51 back in change. Please count it out for me.
-- Ed in Mobile, Ala.
DEAR READER: Let me count the ways to learn to count money! It starts in school (and at home) with basic arithmetic. Parents can help children learn math and make it fun even before school age. When you get change back from a transaction, have the child count the change. When you leave a cash tip, ask them to count the amount left on the table.
That said, employers may have a certain way they want change returned to the customer. Bills first, then coins, or vice versa. As a customer, you can say politely, "Please give me the bills first."
DEAR HELOISE: My daughter was in a car accident and wasn't hurt, but her cellphone went flying. She was unable to find it. My hint is to make sure you know where your phone is, in case of emergency.
-- A.R., via email.
DEAR READER: On the surface, this seems simple. Most people do use their phones (hands-free, we hope) while in the automobile. Yes, there is a chance of it and anything else not secured (purse, groceries, tote bag, water bottle) going flying if a sudden stop or accident occurs.
However, unless the phone is attached to the dashboard, it's a potential "flying object" of the electronic kind.
DEAR HELOISE: A favorite for warm, "sticky" weather: Put cornstarch in an empty bath-powder container with puff. Keep it in the refrigerator. So refreshing to put on neck and arms on these warm, humid days.
-- Sharon M.,
Moran, Kan.
DEAR HELOISE: I have several house cats, and they just love colorful, large craft "pipe cleaners." They form into all kinds of shapes. One cat loves talking to his "toy," carrying it around and having a great time. Such an inexpensive toy and more cherished than purchased ones.
-- Ethel R., via email
DEAR HELOISE: I have a hint for anyone who has a cat that wants to go outside. I use a harness and leash to take my cat for a walk. It works well, and he enjoys his outings.
-- Jay in
Hagerstown, Md.
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 07/25/2015