Heloise

Dear Heloise: Unload the bottom rack of the dishwasher first to keep the items there dry. Top rack items, like coffee cup bottoms, often still have water in them and drip when they’re tipped and removed. — J. Savela, in North Port, Florida

RAMP IT UP

Dear Heloise: To enable my pet to get himself up on the bed, I found that a sturdy, ultra-dense foam pet ramp is better than stair steps for senior dogs and dogs with arthritis. The dog can climb the ramp more easily than having to lift each foot up onto a step. The ramps are available from major online retailers. Prices vary, though, and we invested in a quality ramp. — Donald K., in Pennsylvania

STAMP OF APPROVAL

Dear Heloise: Recently I was homebound with a broken ankle and tibia. During my recuperation, I received over 70 “get well” cards. One of my friends enclosed a book of postage stamps in her card. Because I wrote a lot of letters, this was the best thing I could have received. I currently have gone through six books of stamps from writing to friends and family.

Anyway, my helpful hint: When sending a “get well” card, enclose a book of postage stamps. It is a thoughtful gift. — Chick J., in Littleton, New Hampshire

HOW DO I LEAVE?

Dear Heloise: I want to quit my current job, but I also want to leave on good terms. How can I say “goodbye” and not offend my boss? — Peggy, in Massachusetts

Peggy, be sure to give a two-week notice that you are leaving. Speak to your boss first before telling anyone else that you’re leaving. Offer to train the person who is replacing you. Thank your boss for the opportunity of working there.

It’s best to leave on good terms with your boss and former co-workers. — Heloise

GETTING A GRIP

Dear Heloise: I use clawlike hair clips for my hair, but when I’m tired of them, or they lose a prong, I use them to secure a vine to a stake or to clip a plant to a trellis. I also use chopsticks to stake plants because they are cheap and readily available after dinner in a Chinese restaurant. — Maddie W., in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania

OFFICE/KITCHEN COMBO

Dear Heloise: I have a desk in my kitchen. This makes it easier to answer emails or write letters while preparing a meal. Also, the kids can sit at the desk and work on their projects or homework while I cook, and we can have a nice chat. — Deborah T., in Texas

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Izzy showed up in my barn a few days after I lost my dog. She appeared at just the right time. She is my snuggle kitty and lets me know if she needs my attention every day. — Kelly DeWispelaere, via email

Readers, to see Izzy and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

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Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.