Helpful Hints

DEAR READERS: Today's Sound Off is about the wearing of camouflage clothing:

"People from babies to adults are wearing camouflage clothes. It's used on sheets, towels and whatever.

"I think this is a slap in the face to our men and women in the armed forces, who have earned the right to wear this type of clothing. I feel people should respect the camouflage clothes of the armed forces like we respect the American flag. Haven't our men and women in the military earned the right to wear camouflage, and NOT everyone else?"

-- Martha N., Riverton, Ill.

DEAR READER: Although I don't wear camouflage, I think it's OK if others want to wear it. To some people, this is a way of showing support for and solidarity with our armed forces, while others find the design to be attractive, and hunters have used camouflage for years. It's currently a trend, but it may fade in time.

DEAR READERS: Here are a few ideas for wicker baskets:

• Use one to hold all the remote controls in your home.

• Use a large basket for your pets to sleep in, with a towel or pillow on the bottom.

• Place gifts in them. They make a nice presentation.

DEAR HELOISE: My company is encouraging employees to meditate during breaks and if we have time during lunch hour. It's an innovative idea and is becoming more common in the workplace, because there are benefits to the company and the employee.

When people meditate, they form the ability to concentrate better on their work. We seem to have more focus, more energy and feel better. Some of my co-workers swear they have a better quality of sleep after meditating. I'd like to see more companies help their employees to learn meditation. It's helped to cut down on turnover in our company!

-- Lillian G., Bismarck, N.D.

DEAR HELOISE: I sew or pin a satin pillowcase over my pillow. When putting on the clean pillowcase, the pillow just slides over the satin with ease.

-- Eileen B., Lima, Ohio

DEAR READERS: It's best to keep pets away from sugary treats during this holiday season. Ask visitors to refrain from giving your pets people food.

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]

ActiveStyle on 11/20/2017

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