Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Please don’t give balloons to children and pets. Some mothers don’t know how dangerous they are.

I once had a lovable cat that strangled on a balloon. I awoke one night thinking I was hearing someone saying “mama.” I got up to check on the kids. They were all asleep, so I thought I was dreaming and went back to bed.

The next day we were looking for the cat to feed her. One of the children found her under the bed dead with some of the balloon hanging out of her mouth. We were devastated.

Balloons can be sucked in by a child, as well as by a pet. - Lynda Edwards, New Orleans

I’m so sorry to hear about the death of your beloved cat. Thanks for the warning. Your letter may save other pets.

You’re right about children playing with balloons. They can be very dangerous, especially around very young children. - Heloise

Five ways to recycle plastic lids:

Put under potted plants.

Bend and use for an emergency funnel.

Use as coasters under drinking glasses.

Child can use one in place of a small flying disk.

Cut and use as quilt templates. - Heloise