Sensible gift wrapping

DEARHELOISE » When my daughter was getting married, I gave her a number of bulky items for her shower, including towels and plastic storage bowls.

As I shopped for wrapping supplies, I was disheartened at how expensive it would be to make a pretty presentation and that the wrapping paper would soon be trash. I spotted large reusable shopping bags — the shiny kind that stand on their own. They had a variety of bright designs to match my daughter’s style, fit her low-waste lifestyle and were rather inexpensive. A little tissue paper and ribbon added flair. Five years later, she still uses the bags in a variety of ways.

I have started doing the same with other gifts, including smaller novelty themed bags for children. There are a quite a variety, and it’s nice to know the “wrapping” will have extended use.

— Irene in Ohio

Heloise

Reusing cleaning pads

DEARHELOISE » After I use one of those pre-moistened floor cleaning pads that attach to the mop, I turn the pad over and use the other side to clean the baseboards. This is a time- and money-saver!

— Cathy in Texas Cathy, great idea! I love getting the most out of a product.

Cleaning miniblinds

DEARHELOISE » I found an easy way to really clean my metal miniblinds. I fill my bathtub with soapy, warm water and lay the blinds in the water for about 20 to 30 minutes. I then let about half of the water drain from the tub and scrub the blinds with a car wash brush that has an extension pole. Then I rinse them in the tub and take them outside to dry in the sunlight. Using the long-handled brush makes the job easier and saves my back.

— Harold in Louisiana

Freshen drapes

DEARHELOISE » To freshen my drapes, I put them in the dryer with a dyer sheet on a cool or air-dry setting. They come out smelling fresh and free from cat hair and dust. This is a good way to freshen drapes when there’s very little time to do anything else with them.

— Donna in New York

Mind your meds

If you are taking medications and are planning to travel, here are a few things to keep in mind:

* Make a list of all medications you’re taking, including the dosage.

* Bring enough of each medication to last the length of the trip and maybe a day or two extra, just in case.

* Keep medications in the original containers with their labels from the pharmacy.

* Always bring your medications with you in a carry-on bag if you are flying.

Poempower

DEARHELOISE » When I’m feeling blue, I reach for a favorite poem. It always lifts my spirits and gives me encouragement.

— Lolly in Texas Lolly, we all need a lift now and then, and there is something very calming about poetry.