Dear Readers: Today's Sound Off is about how kids are being entertained. The reader wrote: "My concern is for the young. When my husband and I were raising our children, we spent time with them and had conversations with them. In restaurants, I've seen adults engaged in conversations while the younger ones are silently engaged in a handheld game. Shouldn't they be a part of the table conversations too?
"A friend posted pictures of her grandkids in a field of bluebonnets. Her grandson was playing on his electronic toy, completely disengaged from the experience.
"My cousin and her children came to visit. After the introductory small talk, she said, 'Now go play so we can talk.' The children went outside, sat on the porch and pulled out their electronic games. When I asked her about it, she said it was just easier and keeps them happy! These children have a right to be in this world and be a part of it, too!"-Wanda B., via email
It's a different age today! Electronics are part of our lives, and that's just the way it is. Your point, though, is a good one: Try to interact with children on a one-on-one level-eye level!-Heloise
FAST FACTS
Dear Readers: Other things that you can use as a bookmark:
- The corner of a used envelope.
- A sticky note.
- A folded magazine page.
- A greeting card.
- A photograph.
-Heloise
COFFEE
Dear Heloise: A few months back, I ordered your Coffees and Teas pamphlet, and I have to say, I've enjoyed many of the recipes and ideas in it. It has helped me become a connoisseur when it comes to experimenting with tastes.
Cinnamon and honey are two of my favorite flavors for adding to coffee. Have you ever tried a tablespoon of peanut butter? It takes flavored coffee to a whole new dimension. Thanks for the pamphlet!-Yolanda D. in San Antonio
Yolanda, yes, I've added a teaspoon of peanut butter to a cup of hot coffee! Readers, for some delicious money-saving recipes, send for my Coffees and Teas pamphlet. You can order it online at www.Heloise.com, or send $3 and a stamped (68 cents), self-addressed, business-size envelope to: Heloise/Coffee, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Great- tasting coffee shouldn't have to come from a coffee shop. Learn to make your own; you'll save a lot of time
and money! One "new" taste I tested: pistachio (sugar-free) pudding mixes in a cup of hot tea! My husband, David, remarked, "What?" Tasted great to me!-Heloise
THANKS WITH A TWIST
Dear Heloise: When I send thank-you notes, I try to send a picture of the item in use, the clothes being worn or even what I purchased with that gift card. I get a lot of appreciative responses for doing so, and it adds a personal touch to the note.-Georgia H., Amarillo, Texas
King Features Syndicate