Travel stop can save you dough
Dear Heloise: We do a lot of traveling between southern Texas and Ohio. We always check the coupon books at the rest areas, as they have some great money-savers on all types of motels. Only once have we had them refuse to honor a coupon, and it usually is a better discount than other companies. — Bob S., Galion, Ohio
With summer just about to jump up and lots of us on the road, this is a money-saving hint I like. There usually is a plethora of information at the state rest stops, especially the ones as you come into the state. My husband, David, and I always stop, stretch our legs (our dogs Chammy and Henry, too), get some fresh air and I clean out the truck. The state folks there are happy to make suggestions, answer your questions and usually welcome you to the state. — Safe and fun travels, Heloise
Preserving headstones
Dear Heloise: Our family goes to multiple cemeteries. I really can see the deterioration of some of the older stones
— the words and inscriptions are being lost. Do you have suggestions for the continued preservation of this important information? — Dennise R., Springfield, Mo.
First, do no harm. A lot depends on the age of the headstone and the type of material it is made from: granite, marble, limestone or bronze. What weather conditions is it subject to?
If you clean, use only water and a cloth, doing one small area at a time. Rinse frequently. Do not use household cleaners. Check with employees at the cemetery to see what they suggest. — Hugs, Heloise
Ice pack
Dear Heloise: A friend was visiting with her 6year-old son. He fell and needed an ice pack. I looked in the freezer and saw my wine chiller, a flexible ice tube that slips over a wine bottle. I wrapped his arm in a kitchen towel and slid the wine chiller over the arm. Instant child-size ice pack that stayed in place. — Suzanne, via email
Kids meals
Dear Heloise: My sons are young men now, but whenever I go through a fast-food restaurant, I purchase the kids meal. I save the toys and put them out with candy for Halloween. The children love them. — Sandra S., via email