Dog tags can help with keys
Dear Heloise:
I wanted to share my hint for bridal shower gifts. I buy a pretty storage basket or decorative bathroom trash can and fill it with a variety of kitchen and laundry items that the new couple will need and may not have thought of. If I know the bride’s color preferences, I also tuck in a potholder or kitchen towel set. These have always been well received and shopping is easy.
When our daughters married, we had been collecting kitchen items already and keeping them in cedar “hope” chests. They had all the flatware, cookware and baking dishes that they needed. Our church wanted to give them bridal showers, but they didn’t need the usual gifts. So the ladies gave them each what we in Texas call a “pounding,” in which they received pounds of paper goods, laundry and dishwashing supplies, condiments and the like. They were set for months. —
Adethia, Tyler, Texas
A pound of paper supplies or staples will last a good while. From a Texas gal, —
Heloise Exercise table
Dear Heloise:
When my physical therapist told me to continue my exercise at home, I had no place to exercise. The sofa and the bed were too soft, and I can no longer get up from the floor. So I took a piece of plywood and laid it across three sofa cushions, then topped it with a quilt folded in thirds. Presto! An exercise table both firm and just the right height. —
Mary,
Wilmington, Ohio Donating suits
Dear Heloise:
My son recently passed away. He had several nice suits. Is there a place to take them so that men may use them to enter the workforce? —
Janet P., via email
Janet, my heart hurts for you. How kindhearted you are to think about others at this time. Here are a few suggestions: The Salvation Army is a great organization that I have supported for decades. Men’s clothing is used to help in their rehabilitation program. Nice shirts, sports jackets, pants and even shoes are put to good use.
Many veteran organizations also welcome men’s items. Contact the VA outpost nearest to you to see if it has a suit program and where you can donate. They also may be able to direct you to a national or another local program.
Many large men’s clothing stores have suit drives once or twice a year. Watch for these programs or call and ask if they do this.
Don’t let a good suit or jacket go to waste. Young men, recent graduates, veterans and others can use business attire for job interviews. What a great way to honor your son. A nice outfit just might make the difference in someone getting a job. —
Heloise