Heloise

Dear Heloise: Hello from Nebraska! My husband received a package of small flashlights as a gift because his job required that he always have a flashlight available. Fast forward to his retirement, I’ve now taken all of these flashlights and hung them on the hinges at the back of the doors in the bedrooms, bathrooms, closets and exit doors.

This means that we always have light available to us, whether it be an emergency or just needing extra light in a closet. Visiting family members know that flashlights are available, and this provides them with safety. All I ask is that everyone put them back when finished or let me know if they need new batteries. — Respectfully, Julie Murphy

VACATION FALL

Dear Heloise: On vacation this summer, my husband fell and had a couple of cuts that needed more than a bandage. We were staying at a friend’s house, and all they had was a box of bandages. But I remembered that we had a full first-aid kit in our vehicle, and this really had everything we needed in it! This might also help someone else. — Corrinne Berkland, in Universal City, Texas

DAILY TASKS

Dear Heloise: In my retirement, I’ve learned a few tricks that keep me pleasantly productive. Before going to bed, I write a list of things that I’d like to accomplish the next day. I put a star beside these items that must be done on that day. As I am finishing an activity, I decide what I will do next.

I alternate standing/active chores with seated/sedentary chores. I sprinkle breaks of relaxation during the day: reading, puzzles, hobbies, etc. I add pleasant touches to my home (flowers, music, scented candles, etc.) so that I enjoy being home and am not eager to escape running unnecessary errands. — Barbara G., in Houston

PUPPY LOVE

Dear Heloise: We adopted Lukas three years ago, and he has brought us such joy! He knows what time it is for dinner as he jumps on my lap and stares at me. He knows to run to the window when I say “chipmunk” or “bird.” His best friend is our daughter’s Great Dane, Vega.

Lukas loves laying in front of the AC on hot days, hiding in boxes, and playing fetch. He sleeps at the foot of our bed with us each night. His tail is almost as long as he is, and his fur is as soft as angora. — Rose Kowaliw, via email

BOTTLE CAPS

Dear Heloise: I buy several supplements that come in different-sized bottles. Some have flip-top lids. I save them/recycle them by adding them to appropriate-sized bottles for easier access. Thank you for your column. — Gloria Walker, via email

SUNSCREEN RUMOR

Dear Heloise: They are now finding out that sunscreen causes way more cancers than the sun ever will. Just thought you should know. It’s especially dangerous for children. — Ron G., via email

Ron, according to the Mayo Clinic, this is a false rumor. Sunscreen protects us against ultraviolet radiation. It’s the sun that causes skin cancer. So, go ahead and lather yourself up with sunscreen, and wear a hat outside. — 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.