Dear Heloise: I'm always looking for ways to save money, and a big expense for me is my medical bills. Here are some hints I use to help my budget:
I stay on top of my health with a yearly physical. The doctor can see potential problems and cut them off at the pass.
If the doctor finds anything, I always talk to another doctor-a second opinion is important.
Prescription medications can be expensive. I ask the doctor for samples, and I always get generic medications when available, and a three-month supply by mail is a great way to save.
I hope these hints will help your readers like they've helped me!-Hilda H. in Texas
'FIRE!'
Dear Heloise: People get used to hearing the squealing of children in the neighborhood; they may not respond to kids hollering if they feel threatened by a stranger.
But if the kids scream "FIRE," that would get the attention of nearby adults. Kids are smart-they understand.-Carola D., via email
NOT DELIGHTED
Dear Heloise: I don't like when a company says, "If you're not happy, we'll give you your money back, no questions asked."
I want them to ask questions, like: "What can we do to satisfy you?" "Why aren't you happy?" "What can we do to secure your business?"
This would show that they care about developing and keeping relationships with their customers.-Alice B. in Pittsburgh
PAINT IT CLEAR
Dear Heloise: I paint base-metal rings and the back of base-metal pendants and bracelets with clear nail polish to avoid, or to reduce the chance of, the ring turning green or black.-Barbara G. in Indiana
SKEETER SWATTER
Dear Heloise: When I have a persistent mosquito that escapes all attempts to swat it, I keep a spray bottle of plain water handy, and when it appears again, a spray of water will bring it down. It won't kill the mosquito, so I have to finish it off, but I don't use insecticides when I don't have to.-Judith M., via email
A REMOTE PROBLEM
Dear Heloise: After being awakened to strange noises in the bedroom, I learned this lesson: If you have pets, don't leave your TV remote or cellphone lying faceup on the nightstand, dresser or bed.
Turn your remote away from the TV or put it in a drawer. Stand your phone up or lay it facedown. That way, if little paws step on them, they won't turn on the TV or dial the phone.-Marty in San Antonio
TOEING THE LINE
Dear Heloise: I had trouble keeping track of how many times I used my razor in the shower. I took an old toe separator used for pedicures, and now I put the razor in the hole on one side, and move it to the next hole after each use to keep track of five uses!-Clover in Houston