HELOISE Use of unique passwords should protect computers

Dear Heloise: I read about the reader using Bible passages for her computer passwords and thought it was quite unusual. But when I was working, I had what I think was a system of ensuring that hackers could not guess my passwords, which were changed each month.
I grew up in a small coal-mining town in Pennsylvania, and as a teenager I had a paper route in the 1940s. After more than 50 years, I still remembered the names of all 60 customers and the nicknames of their sons. So, I used those nicknames as passwords and changed them occasionally. John Pacuska, via e-mail
John, it would be hard for someone to guess your password. A note: Try to add a number or extra letter to a password to make it harder for someone to guess. Heloise
Fast facts
Dear Heloise: My husband and I both like those flavored oatmeal packets, but they are expensive, and we go through them quite fast.
So, I make up my own packets in small, zipper-top plastic bags. I mix one quarter cup of oatmeal and some brown sugar with other healthy things, such as a tablespoon each of ground flaxseed, wheat germ and raisins, along with one teaspoon of cinnamon. You can also add chopped nuts. Add two-thirds cup water or milk, microwave for about two minutes, and you have a hearty breakfast. Colleen Noecker, Albion, Neb.
Dear Heloise:When I get my photos back from the developer, I also get an envelope with the negatives. The envelope is generally covered with advertising. To identify the negatives, I put a label on the outside and write the general information of what they are. If I want to go back and get more prints, I can easily find the ones I need. Marjorie Rouse in Iowa
Dear Heloise: When I get an appointment card from a doctor or others, I tape the card to my computer monitor, so every time I use the computer, I am reminded of when the appointment is. David Baum, via e-mail
Sound off
Dear Heloise: My pet peeve pertains to public facilities. I'd like to meet the contortionist who designed the ladies' stalls. The doors open "in," and there's no room to step back and avoid close contact with either the door or the potty. The tissue dispenser is below and behind knee level, making it nearly impossible to reach; then the individual roll is so heavy and the product so thin that it's impossible to extract a useful amount on the first try. I'm certain the ladies' accommodations were not designed by a lady. Clarice in Iowa
Have you been following me across the country? My thoughts exactly. Heloise
XSend a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; fax to (210) HELOISE, or e-mail Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate