HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: We recently came back from a trip, and although my husband’s luggage arrived at the hotel with us, mine was lost at the airport. I had planned ahead and had packed one complete outfit in my husband’s bags, which I wore until the airlines could get my bags to me. I also packed a complete outfit for my husband in my bag. If one of us loses their luggage, we still have something to change into until the other’s luggage arrives.

I carry my makeup and toiletries in my carry-on bag, along with all medications and a mini first-aid kit.

— Mary Jane W.,

Lowell, Mass.

DEAR HELOISE: I know doctors use electronic medical records to keep a patient’s records on file, but I don’t like that idea. If hackers can break into the Pentagon, what is to keep them out of medical information that I might like to keep private? How can I ensure my privacy?

— Toni C., West Palm Beach, Fla.

DEAR TONI: As technology progresses, there are better safeguards on computer programs. There are benefits of electronic medical records:

Many providers allow patients to have an online portal to access their records.

You have the right to ask your doctor about who would be allowed to view records.

Doctors can view your medical records, medications and health concerns if you should happen to be sick or injured in another city or state.

It helps reduce the cost of medical care by reducing duplication of records.

DEAR HELOISE: I like to bake yeast bread and rolls. I prefer the method of dissolving the yeast in warm water rather than just adding it to the dry ingredients. I find that the dough is easier to handle.

Before washing the bread-mixing bowl, scrub it vigorously with a dry paper towel, dispose of the crumbs, then wash.

— Ruth Van K., Geneva, N.Y.

DEAR HELOISE: Here’s a great way to get your kids interested in math: Give them some money — not too much — then take them to a dollar store and let them buy what they want, but do not give them additional funds. They can spend only what they have. It’s amazing how fast they learn math as they calculate what things cost with tax. — Mary Beth D.,

Concord, N.H.