HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: We have discovered a great use for last year’s Christmas tree. We placed it outside, as close as possible to the bird feeder. The birds used it as shelter between feedings. It also served as a prop for suet cake holders, which the birds love. Of course, here in New England we make sure the bird feeders are down no later than March 31 so as to be gone before the black bears come out of hibernation. Bears love the seeds almost as much as the birds.

— Paul S., Middlebury, Conn.

DEAR HELOISE: In this icy-cold weather, a lot of people are unhappy about letting their faucets drip all night long. It’s an increase in their water bill and in many ways, a waste of good, clean water. I always place a large pitcher under the faucet to catch the water, then use it to make my morning coffee or water my plants, etc. This way I use it rather than waste it.

— Marcia M., Delaware, Ohio

DEAR READER: What a terrific way to conserve water. Water is such a valuable resource that we must all take care to use it wisely and you have. This was a very good hint.

DEAR HELOISE: You know those mesh bags that oranges or onions sometimes come in? I roll the mesh into a multi-layered ball and it becomes a useful “scrubby” to clean sinks or countertops and does not scratch the surfaces. It can be used multiple times before being discarded. I keep a supply beneath my sink.

— Ellen M., Danbury, Conn.

DEAR HELOISE: Over the years, I’ve had a number of garage sales, and I’ve learned a lot about what sells and what does not, what customers like and what they don’t like. Here are a few hints:

■ Have everything tagged with the price you’re asking. Please don’t ask them to “make you an offer.” Don’t overprice anything and have a few free items.

■ Make sure items are clean and similar items are grouped together.

■ Put up signs that say, “No refunds or exchanges” and “All sales final.”

■ Have plenty of $1 bills and someone who never leaves the cash box unattended.

■ Place a notice in the newspaper with open and closing times, address but no phone numbers. — Cathy J., Topeka, Kan.