Heloise 12/6

Dear Heloise: I just read a reader who suggested wearing single-use “rubber” gloves to keep their fingernails clean when gardening. It’s far better to keep a bar of soap with your gardening gear and simply scrape your fingernails over the soap bar to pack soap under your fingernails.

This obviously goes for both women and men. It keeps your fingernails from getting dirty and stained; plus it slightly reinforces the nail so that they don’t bend or break as easily. It’s inexpensive, super easy and environmentally friendly, and it works! – Becky Esbaum, in Eldridge, Iowa

Dear Heloise: In response to Charles H., I can relate to the complaints about a BOGO sale. When I was raising four children, I loved the opportunity to get these sales. However, being a senior and living in a senior community with less need and space for extra food/supplies, I still like to hunt for a bargain.

When I find a BOGO or another good sale, I donate the extra items to a neighbor in need or to the local food bank. If I need the items on sale, I don’t mind getting extra to donate. There’s always someone who can use them or possibly need them.

Another suggestion is BOGO meals from restaurants. Friends can go out together, enjoy the BOGO meal, and split the bill. – Maggie R., in Florida