Helpful Hints

DEAR READERS: Heloise on the go! In late March, I did a Heloise road trip: three states, nine airports, two speeches and two newspaper visits in six days.

Each hotel where I stayed had a "breakfast on the go" in mini-handled paper shopping bags. Of course, I saved them. Here are some ways they can be helpful:

• Organize small purchases in a suitcase or carry-on.

• Stow essentials (keys, lipstick, cash, ID and one credit card) for a day of sightseeing. No big purse to carry.

• Use for trash in a rental car.

• Add tissue paper and it's a gift bag.

• Perfect for newspapers and magazines.

• Fill with nibbles for late-night munchies.

DEAR READERS: Here are two humorous stories about shopping for a bra that you were willing to share. Read on and laugh!

"Dear Heloise: Occasionally when I am shopping for a bra, I walk up to another lady shopping or a clerk in the 18-hour bra section and ask, 'Do I have to wear the bra for 18 hours, or is it OK to take it off earlier?' I usually get a hearty laugh in reply."

-- Marge in

Columbus Grove, Ohio

"Dear Heloise: When my daughter was about 3, we were walking through the ladies' 'unmentionables' department in a large store. She gasped and said, 'Mom, they put the ladies' underwear and bras where the boys can see them!'"

-- Smiles, A Faithful

Reader in Maine

DEAR HELOISE: When I fly, I use a tote in which I slip my purse, the quart-size travel bag allowed of liquids, e-reader, earplugs, face mask and scarf. It keeps my purse clean if stowed, and keeps those items handy.

-- Peggy R., Kilgore, Texas

DEAR HELOISE: I catch rainwater, when we get it, to use on inside and outside plants. They love that water (versus tap water). I place tins under roof areas that give off a lot of water.

-- Carol J. in San Antonio

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

Weekend on 05/21/2015

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