She develops a helpful pattern for movers

Dear Heloise: Twice I have helped friends who were moving from their house or condo and going into a retirement setting of one or two rooms. Each time the lady was troubled by what furniture would fit into the new residence. One had limited vision, which increased the problem.
Each decided what furniture she would like to take, if possible. To help them, I measured each item and made exact newspaper cutouts (even of the bed), which they could lay on the floor. In this way, "furniture" could be moved easily to determine what would fit. After seeing the patterns, one lady was able to take her piano, which she thought would have to be left behind. Perhaps this will help others. A Reader in El Cajon, Calif.
This is a brilliant "helper" suggestion. How thoughtful of you to help your friends with a major move. So many times, it's hard to pare things down, and your hint will surely help. Heloise
Dear Heloise: So many people these days travel with a black rolling suitcase that it is difficult to recognize your own. Whenever I receive a bouquet of flowers with a pretty ribbon or have a short amount of gift-wrap ribbon left over, I tie it onto one of my black suitcases. That way, I can quickly identify my bag when it comes down the baggage-claim conveyor belt. Penne Lentz, Lexington, Ky.
Dear Heloise: I read in the newspaper about a reader who was bemoaning the fact that manufacturers don't put a directional stripe on sheets and blankets. Instead of waiting for manufacturers to start making blankets and sheets with stripes (and charging extra), I would suggest that one simply mark "LL" in the lower left corner. Mike, via e-mail
Dear Heloise: I installed custom-pleated shades to replace cumbersome bifold doors and standard closet doors that block too much wall space when open. I chose a decorator color, assuring a classy look. Best of all, they never need refinishing. Vicki Clift, Cambria, Calif.
Dear Heloise: Have you seen those no-mess ketchup and mustard bottles? They solve the problem of the cap getting all wet and encrusted. When they are empty, I use them in my shower as a soap dispenser. I hang the bottle from the shower tap with a shoestring and fill it from the gallon of liquid soap I bought at the warehouse store. Jim, via e-mail
Dear Heloise: After I shower, I like to use dusting powder on my body. Designer fragrances in talc or dusting powder are very expensive. So, I fill my powder container with cornstarch, and I spray it generously with my favorite cologne. Voila -- designer-fragrance dusting powder. It's much less expensive, and you can't tell the difference. Marjorie Eglett, Westminster, Calif.
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