Dear Heloise: Recently, I ran out of trash-compactor bags. I was so used to just tossing things in the compactor that I decided to put a plastic bag in there to keep from having to clean up a big mess.

I found that the large heavy-plastic bags from department stores work wonderfully. They fit perfectly and will do the job in a pinch. - K.C., San Antonio

P.S. Don’t compact this temporary bag.

Dear Heloise: Keep a couple of small barbells near your computer. While you’re waiting for the machine to do its work, you can work on the underarm flab or improve your tennis serve!

Enjoy your column very much! - E.P.B. in Texas

Also a constructive way to relieve frustration when your modem has to redial umpteen times until you connect with your Internet provider. - Heloise

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