HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: Today’s paper had a great hint from Sharon in California about making sure that when moving to add a number to each container loaded by the trucking company.

My added tip to that great idea is to keep a small journal of each box number, noting the items packed in each. That way, if a box doesn’t make it to the final destination, you’ll have a detailed list of what was in the lost box.

Years ago, I moved from Alaska all the way across the country to Ohio. I had my journal in hand when my boxes arrived. If anything had been missing, I could easily identify it. And all my items successfully traveled by truck and train across the U.S.

— Sue in Ohio

DEAR HELOISE: I enjoy your column very much. Today I saw your response that napkins tucked into the collar of a shirt should be for those under 6 years old, as if not proper etiquette. I, too, was taught napkins should be placed on the lap.

However, I have dined at very fine restaurants in the U.S. where the waiter placed a large napkin around my neck. One was outside of Philadelphia. My meal was $100 with several courses (no alcohol). The other restaurant was in North Carolina, which happened to be my best dining experience ever!

Observing diners overseas, I have seen a variety of napkin placements and uses. I just wanted to bring my observations to your attention, as there are many cultures and American subcultures that napkin etiquette differs from what you and I had been taught. Thank you.

— Theresa N., Colorado Springs, Colo.

DEAR HELOISE: Whenever I buy something and need to return it, I place the item and its receipt in the original bag so I have it with me whenever I have time to return it. I also put any documents or other items in the car (such as medical forms) after they are prepared so I don’t forget to take them when I depart. In addition, I place clothes, shoes, coupons, gift cards, tickets, documents such as passports, etc., in the car that I might need. This habit has been so helpful and relieves stress, especially as I age and become more forgetful.

— Nancy, Dayton, Ohio

DEAR READER: We could all use help remembering to take things with us. But it might not be a good idea to keep important documents and valuables in the car when they’re not needed.