DEAR HELOISE: Can you explain why receipts should be scanned into a computer file or even on a mobile phone?
-- Greenlee C., via email
DEAR READER: Most receipts today are printed on thermal paper, which causes the ink to fade away quickly when exposed to heat or sunlight. A receipt from today can be blank or unreadable by next month. To protect yourself, particularly on large-ticket items, take a picture or scan the receipt so you still have a copy in case of a warranty issue, or if you need to return an item later.
DEAR HELOISE: There is nothing better than a hot cup of coffee. However, if you're like me and like to add some milk, the hot coffee cools quickly. To avoid this, I microwave the milk in the cup for a short time, just a few seconds, before adding the coffee. Now I'm able to keep my coffee hot.
-- Lydia G., Omaha, Neb.
DEAR READER: I also enjoy a nice, hot cup of coffee, especially when starting my day. Try adding extract like peppermint, chocolate or vanilla to your coffee for a change of flavor.
DEAR HELOISE: One nice way to remember patients in the hospital is through the hospital's gift shop. Contacting the gift shop directly and having it deliver a floral arrangement to the room saves time and money, as well as benefiting the hospital auxiliary, in many cases. Usually I call and ask what is available in my price range, and I have been very happy with the results. I've even had the hospital staff text me pictures of my selections.
-- A Reader, via email
DEAR HELOISE: In response to Wilma F., who had hints about things to take to a family who has lost a loved one, in addition to paper goods, don't forget trash bags.
However, one of my favorite items to send is postage stamps. They can be put in a card and mailed, and you can mail any amount of booklets. Trust me, they will be used and appreciated when sending thank-you notes.
-- Pam P. in Nebraska
DEAR HELOISE: I found another use for cranberry sauce. I was out of jams and jellies, so I put a slice of canned cranberry sauce on a hot biscuit for breakfast with bacon and eggs. I thought it was very good.
-- Vicky P. in Houston
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
Style on 01/17/2017