HINTS FROM HELOISE
Puppy pics
Dear Heloise: To track the growthwth of our puppy, we photograph him nextxt to a teddy bear as a point of comparisonson once per month. This would work wellell if you have an overweight pet too, to monitor weight loss. We get a kick outut of seeing the changes in our pup. -Kelsey W. in Ore.
PET PAL
Dear Readers: We were SWAMPED with wonderful cat photos following our column on International Cat Day! Nora G. sent a pic of her beautiful and loving Amore. When he was young, he was nicknamed “the apprentice” because he’d sit next to any workman in the house and watch, as though he was learning. To see Amore and our other Pet Pals, visit www.heloise.com -- Heloise
MUG CAKE SNACK
Dear Heloise: I enjoy reading your column in the New Orleans Advocate. I have a hint for those of us who live alone and want a treat sometimes. Regular cake mix can be used for a “mug cake” with good results.
I mix 1/2 cup of any dry cake mix with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water in a sousoup mug. I stir until the lumps break upup, then microwave it for 1 minute to 1 minute and 15 seconds. I let it sisit for about 5 minutes, and I have a ququick, sweet treat!
If I want a bit of frosting, I drizzle syrup or honey over the top. I have also sprinkled cinnamon sugar on top with delicious results.
I put the unused mix in an airtight container until I need it. One cake mix can make about five treats! -- Therese W., New Orleans
CATS AND LEMONS DON’T MIX
Dear Heloise: I know how to keep cats away. I scatter orange or lemon peelings over the area where I want the cats to leave.
The cats will sniff but not eat the citrus, and they won’t come back. I replace the orange peels as they dry up. This does not harm any pets, birds or the outdoor area. -- Ellen F., via email