Heloise, syndicated columnist

Dear Heloise: While I agree with Daniel D.’s mother that flowers are best enjoyed by the living, I had to share with you that my late mom said “flowers are for the dead” when, as a kid, I presented her with a bouquet (from her garden). However, later in life, she really did seem to enjoy the birthday and Mother’s Day arrangements that I would send when I couldn’t be present to spend the day with her. — Lori, in Central Texas

Lori, whenever I visited someone and stayed at their home, I arranged to have flowers sent to my hosts as thanks for their hospitality. Everyone I knew loved receiving flowers, especially since they were usually yellow roses. — Heloise

POWDERED MILK

Dear Heloise: I don’t use a lot of milk, so I don’t like to buy it unless I know I will be needing it. Sometimes I need milk for a recipe that I’d like to try, so I now keep dry milk on hand. This way, I can have the milk that I need, in the amount that I need, when I need it, and without waste!

I don’t like dry milk for drinking but have found that it works perfectly to use in recipes. Hope that this hint will prove to be helpful to some. Thank you for your column! — Deb R., in New England

A VERY SHORT STORY

Dear Heloise: I am a short woman responding to “short people problems.” I prefer to shop at 6:30-8 a.m. because the grocery stores are empty. No one is usually around to help me if there is an item I cannot reach. I started carrying a “grip ‘n’ grab” gadget, which is very handy but 30 inches long.

Then I found a toy grabber that is only 18 inches long and fits nicely in my bag. Problem solved! Several people wanted to know where I got it — a sporting goods store! — Karen P., in North Carolina

NO MORE TEARS

Dear Heloise: Rather than chilling an onion to stop yourself from tearing up, stick your tongue out and breathe through your mouth when cutting. It works. — E.S.N., in Laguna Beach, California

WHEELING IN GERMS

Dear Heloise: I’d like to give a hint that I started using when I got new luggage. I have continued using it ever since: I clean the wheels on my suitcase when I get home from a trip. The rag is black from all the dirt. You will be shocked at how dirty they are. Have a great day! — Rhonda K., via email

Rhonda, having traveled as much as I have, I agree with you. The wheels on luggage roll over all kinds of dirt and puddles, picking up a ton of germs along the way. I clean the wheels of my luggage, too! — Heloise

MICROWAVE COOKING

Dear Heloise: Here’s an inexpensive and easy way to make fluffy eggs without using the stovetop. I add 2 tablespoons of water to 1 egg, mix it well, and microwave it for about 48 seconds. The added water helps aerate the egg, making it light and fluffy. Because I have an electric stove top and like to save on my utility bill, I also cook bacon in the microwave. I wrap the bacon in paper towels and cook it for about 1 minute per slice or 1.5-1.8 minutes for 2 slices, depending on the thickness. It comes out crisp without the splatter of frying. These microwave methods save time and energy, especially with cleanup. They’re also helpful for anyone who finds standing at the stove or handling hot pans difficult. Simple tricks like these make cooking easier every day. — “Tiny” Bennett, in Pasadena, California

EDITOR’S NOTE: Send a great hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.