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How to water African violets

Dear Heloise: African violets often look droopy and tired without the right light or amount of water. If your plant struggles in a desk or shadowy corner, move it to an east-facing window. These plants thrive in mild morning light but dislike the hot afternoon sun from west windows. Place the ...

Our marriage is great, but our love has gone quiet

Dear Annie: I have been married for 22 years to a good man. He is faithful, hardworking and, by most people's standards, a wonderful husband. He has never given me any reason to doubt his loyalty, and he has always taken his responsibilities seriously. From the outside, we look like a solid, ...

Get rid of moldy smells in purses

Dear Heloise: I have a black leather purse, which I stored in its fabric bag. But when I pulled it out this year, it had a terrible moldy smell. I read that baking soda and/or lemon zest would help get rid of the odor, but neither helped. Any ideas on how to get rid of the odor? — Mel G., via ...

When a friend’s ‘help’ feels like a put-down

Dear Annie: I'm having a problem that feels small, but it's starting to make me dread seeing someone I care about. One of my closest friends has gotten into the habit of "correcting" me in public. If I tell a story, she interrupts to adjust a detail. If I mention a restaurant, she jumps in ...

Consuming psyllium-husk fiber

Dear Heloise: Some readers prefer fiber pills, but I like to take a different route. I am 75 and have been taking psyllium-husk fiber for about 15 years to start my day. Each morning, I put 2 scoops of psyllium into a blender with 2 cups of low-sugar diet fruit juice, plus fresh fruit like ...