Plumber’s wife knows: Don’t pour grease down the drain

Dear Heloise: You came to Temple, Texas, to the Mayborn Center, and I got to speak with you. It just so happens that we both have plumber husbands. The event was so much fun, and it was such a treat to meet you. I mentioned that I have been a fan of yours for a very long time, starting with your precious mom. I even submitted a hint, and it made the Temple newspaper about 15 years ago!

But, I am making taco soup today — it’s chilly and a good day for it. When I drain the meat after browning, I take the drippings and put them in an empty vegetable can and place it in the freezer. After it sets, I just put it in a plastic storage bag, and out it goes to the trash.

We both know it is a no-no to pour this down the sink because of what the hot fat will do to the pipes. My husband is very proud of me because I used to pour it down the sink when I first got married 36 years ago. I have learned a bunch since then. Janie Coffia, Temple, Texas

Dear Readers: Don’t toss those yogurt cups with snap-on lids. Once cleaned, they are handy for all kinds of storage. Here are some suggestions:

UPaper and binder clips.

UTwist-ties.

UToothpicks.

USequins.

UBeads.

Added bonus: Label the containers with the contents, and they will be easier to find! Heloise

Dear Heloise: When the electricity gets cut off when it is dark outside and you light candles, put them in front of a mirror, and you’ll have twice as much light! Bonnie, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: I have found that sealed food containers are very handy for storing my prescription vials. Keeps them organized in one place, which makes them handy in case of an emergency and to take on road trips. Chuck Mushett, Bella Vista, Ark.

Dear Heloise: I use an empty plastic water bottle for watering my plants. It is lightweight and easy to reach the soil. Shirley, via e-mail

Sound off

Dear Heloise: First off, a big thank-you for all the work you do! You had requested that people write in with a Sound Off. Well, here is mine — wind chimes! I simply cannot bear the dreadful noise they make.

If someone were to play a radio outside his or her house 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, that would be considered extremely rude. So, why is it not considered rude to hang up a wind chime that goes on and on?

The courteous and considerate neighbor realizes this and does not subject everyone within earshot to his or her musical preferences.

Thanks for allowing me to sound off! Paula in New Jersey

XSend a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate