‘Fix it’ day brings family together

Dear Heloise: I have been reading a lot of comments in your recent articles about gifts for elderly relatives. My dad was always one to never throw anything out. (Duct tape was his best friend!) He had more “things” than he would ever use. So my sister and I came up with the idea of a “fix it” day for my dad.

We asked him to create a list of things he needed done around his house. All of us kids and grandkids would show up ready to work. We trimmed shrubs, cleaned rain gutters, raked leaves, pruned trees and washed off cobwebs, as well as cleaned the inside of his house.

We brought coolers with waters and sodas, sandwiches and chips and paper plates and napkins.

We got my dad’s house taken care of in just one day, enjoyed lunch together and gave my dad the only gift he ever wanted, which was to spend time with his family. — M.B., Cypress, California

Don’t pick up unrecognized calls

Dear Heloise: I notice that many, who write to you are seniors worried about phone scams.

I have a simple suggestion. If you don’t recognize the caller ID, don’t pick up! As my late husband always said, if it’s important, they’ll leave a message that you can check right away or at your leisure.

My phone is for my convenience, not any scam artist, charity or politician who chooses to call. Thanks for an always interesting column. — A Reader, in Connecticut

Unwanted gifts

Dear Heloise: Here’s my solution when I get gifts I don’t want or need. I give them to one of the animal rescue groups I support. They hold auctions for fundraisers, and the new items can be used for an auction. — Melissa, Youngstown, Ohio