DEAR HELOISE: I would like to encourage every woman to learn some form of self-defense. I learned two years ago, and I'm glad I did.
Three weeks ago, I was stopped while walking to my car after work. A man said he was hungry and had no money, so he asked me for some. I gave him $5 and continued to my car. Suddenly I felt someone push me up against my car as I was inserting my key to unlock the door. I struggled and screamed for help, but no one was around.
I tried to calm down and remember what my karate instructor told me. I offered him all the money I had on me and said I wouldn't put up a fight if he stole my car. He told me to get in the car because we were going for "a drive." That was when I went into action. If you're going to fight back, you need do all you can to disable your attacker and run! Scream "fire" rather than "help."
Every situation is different, and it can be frightening. But if a woman feels threatened, she needs to protect herself from attackers whether they are someone she knows or a complete stranger. The police said I did the right thing when I refused to get in the car and go for a drive, even though the man assured me that he would drop me off out of the city.
There are so many small things we can do to get away or protect ourselves, so I hope more women will take a self-defense class. Sometimes there are evening or Saturday classes. Occasionally, a gym will offer them as well.
-- Maisie W.,
Titusville, Fla.
DEAR MAISIE: I agree that we should all know a few basic self-defense moves in case we ever need to protect ourselves. Anyone can call around and find classes designed to help men and women get out of a difficult situation.
DEAR HELOISE: While going through the attic after my parents died, I discovered a lot of old toys. Some were toys when my dad and mom were children, and some were from my own childhood. I called an antique dealer and found out that at least half of the toys were considered rare or hard to find. And they were worth a small fortune!
The moral of my story is that you should look carefully when going through items like these because some could be very valuable. Apparently, some items are very much sought after, such as first-edition books, antique jewelry in good condition, old toys and much more.
-- Janette M.,
Shelton, Conn.
Send a money- or time-saving hint to