Bartender shares dating warning signs
Dear Heloise: I’ve bartended for over 12 years, and I’ve seen a number of things that just surprise or annoy me. It’s not uncommon for couples to meet at a bar on a first date.
Some have a drink before dinner to calm their nerves, but I’ve also seen some sleazy activity. These are things young men and women should watch out for:
■ A person who is con- stantly checking their phone usually tends to be too self-absorbed with their imaginary self-importance to be much fun.
■ If you’re meeting for the first time, try to look your best. Men should wear a suit or sports coat, not workout sweats or a sweatshirt and jeans. Ladies should have makeup on and wear something feminine but not suggestive.
■ Do not let anyone pres- sure you into having “one more drink for the road.” If one drink is your limit, that’s fine. If you would rather have a non-alcoholic drink, that’s OK, too. Don’t let anyone make fun of you for what you drink. Never let anyone pressure you into having more alcohol than your limit allows.
■ If the person keeps looking around the bar in an effort to check out other people, dump them. If you are their date, they should be focused on you. This also goes for someone who keeps making nasty remarks about other people. Before you know it, they’ll be mak- ing ugly remarks about you, too. — Terry M., Dallas
Traveling with a hoodie
Dear Heloise: I usuall pack a hoodie in a carry on piece of luggage. I ca unzip it and use it to sta warm by draping it over the front of myself or pu ting it on with the hood over my head. This help reduce noise and protec my hair and scalp. After all, I don’t know who was sitting there before me. — Matthew V., Brookfield, Wisconsin
Skincare routines
Dear Heloise: As a dermatologist, I see a lot of people who are careless about their skin.
Don’t use an oil or a face cream to remove anything but the most difficult eye makeup. Otherwise, just use a mild soap and water, and wash only using the pads of your fingers in a gentle, circular motion. Rinse well. (Don’t use a washcloth or anything abrasive.)
Pat your face dry, and while your skin is still in a dewy state, use moisturizer suited to your skin type, and don’t forget your neck. — Anonymous, in Los Angeles
No more ants
Dear Heloise: Every summer, we used to bet on an invasion of ants in our kitchen. I’d put food
ay, and if I didn’t have time to clean the breakfast dishes before I left for work, I’d place them in the refrigerator until I got home. Finally, one day, I sprayed them with vinegar, and that was the end of the ants. — Angela B., Hillsboro, Oregon