DEAR HELOISE: I know you have written about hummingbirds, and I have a question: Is it necessary that the nectar be red?
-- Kayla, via email.
DEAR READER: No, it's not necessary to have red nectar, whether commercial or homemade. More and more evidence is showing that red food coloring is harmful to hummers. Most hummingbird feeders have red parts, and hummers are attracted to red. The nectar from flowers is mostly clear, so the little dive bombers are used to clear nectar. Why take a chance of harming a hummingbird?
Hummer food is easy to make. Use 1/4 cup of regular white sugar for 1 cup of water. Some folks shake the container until the sugar is dissolved; others add some hot water to the sugar to dissolve it, then to the whole batch.
Most importantly, hummingbird feeders need to be cleaned often, especially if they are placed in a hot or direct-sunlight location. The "sugar water" solution can look dirty pretty fast and even start growing bacteria.
Every few days, empty the feeder and clean it out with only hot water and a bottle brush.
Do not use dish soap. Scrub well, fill with water, shake, scrub again, shake, then one more rinse.
DEAR HELOISE: I always keep one or two binder clips in my luggage. They are stronger than hair clips. I use them to keep the hotel drapes closed. Less light helps me get a good night's sleep.
-- A Reader
in San Antonio
DEAR HELOISE: In the "notes" section of my smartphone, I started a list of things I need around the house. It includes the size of air filter, the ink-cartridge number and brand for the printer, the type of water-softener pellets, etc. I always have the information I need handy and don't have to worry about buying the wrong thing.
-- Deanne, via email
DEAR HELOISE: I sometimes have to print documents double-sided. I always forget which way to put the paper in so it prints the right way. The last time, I wrote the information down on a sticky note and taped it to the printer. Now the next time I need to do this task, I won't waste time figuring out which way the paper goes.
-- Suzanne, via email
DEAR HELOISE: Here is a hint for those, like me, who struggle to diet and cut back on eating: When you are trying to diet, use the snack baggies to pack a snack or your lunch. This really helps control portions.
-- Valerie H., Flint, Texas
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
Heloise@Heloise.com
MovieStyle on 07/03/2015