DEAR READERS: It's time for summer fun, sports, games and outings. Many people use a bag of frozen peas as an ice pack for an "owie," but here is something better:
Make your own ice pack, and have it at the ready for the inevitable bumps and bruises.
This homemade ice pack will get cold but won't freeze solid. It'll manipulate to fit around arms, legs, knees and shoulders.
Put one part rubbing alcohol to three parts water in a zippered freezer bag, and add a drop or two of food coloring as a reminder that it is not edible. Place into a second bag, clearly label it and put it in the freezer. It turns into a slushy mixture. Wrap the bag in a thin towel, then place on the affected area for short periods of time.
Labeling the bag and coloring its contents are extremely important.
DEAR HELOISE: I have a hearing problem. When people left a "call-back number" on my answering machine, I had trouble deciphering the number.
My daughter suggested a new message: "For a call-back, please say your number slowly, and say it twice." I now understand every message.
-- Lois V., Ohio
DEAR HELOISE: A gentle, important reminder for nurses, aides and caregivers is to return bedside tray tables alongside -- or in front of -- their patient or loved one.
These tables contain necessary items -- e.g., tissues, water, remote control, writing implements and the phone.
-- Karen E., New Jersey
DEAR HELOISE: Another use for the window cleaner for outdoors (that attaches to the garden hose): When it is empty, refill with car wash. I do use a sponge after spraying an area, then rinse.
-- Martha B., via email
DEAR HELOISE: At our self-service register at the grocery store, I put my groceries in a paper bag, which I then put in a plastic bag with handles. This is more secure when the bag is heavy.
-- Marie C.,
Cheshire, Conn.
DEAR HELOISE: People should sign their full name when sending sympathy cards. There are many Georges, Bettys, Bills, etc.
-- Althea S.,
Leavittsburg, 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
Weekend on 07/14/2016