HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS : Today’s Sound On is about beating the boredom of social distancing:

DEAR HELOISE : Everyone seems to be going a little stir-crazy with being indoors so much, but believe it or not, there is so much we can do while we are social distancing:

Start by cleaning out those closets and drawers. You’ll f ind things you thought you’d lost or forgot you had. Just think how much nicer your home will be once that job is done.

Write a letter to someone far away. We’ve lost the art of letter writing, so sit down and write as though that person was there in the room with you. Let someone know you miss them.

If the weather permits, work in your yard. Plant, weed or start to redesign your yard. You’ll get fresh air and exercise.

Catch up on your reading. So many people have books they want to read but can’t find the time. Well, now you have time. You’ll find it very relaxing.

Most of all, try to stay positive and stay busy.

— Rhonda in Minnesota

DEAR HELOISE : Here is a hint for cleaning counter-tops. Wet a dish towel or dish cloth. Wring out well and put in the microwave for one minute. Use a sturdy rubber glove and take the hot cloth and wipe the counter. Repeat and wipe other kitchen areas like the door of the microwave.

You can add a little hydrogen peroxide to your cloth. I feel this sanitizes quickly.

— Polly Kay, California

DEAR HELOISE : Your advice on vinegar saved me from an embarrassing problem. All my drinking glasses had a hard water film on them. I really hated to serve anyone a drink in a cloudy glass. I tried your hint of pouring hot vinegar into the glass, letting it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes and then washing it in hot soapy water. The cloudy look was gone.

— Kate in Texas

DEAR HELOISE : Before I go to my doctor’s appointment, I always sit down the night before and write down all the questions I need to ask about my medications, outcomes of tests, etc. In addition, I keep a purse-size notebook with me of medications I take and their purposes, and any instructions the doctor has given. Having this handy prevents confusion over medications and medical instructions.

— Paula in Florida

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email

Heloise@Heloise.com

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