HELOISE: Develop an exit strategy at store

Dear Heloise: During the past month, when I’m leaving the grocery store, I have encountered people waiting outside the exit door asking for money.

I used to keep my change in my hand as I left the store. After being hounded by many people for money, I now make sure I put my change in my pocketbook and zip it up. You never know what someone might do in a desperate situation. I also went back in the store to tell the manager about what was going on outside.

Milissa Deane in New York

Always trust your instincts when it comes to your safety! It’s wise to be aware of your surroundings and other people, and NOT show a lot of money, whether in a store or in another situation.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I recently lost my wallet. You know what’s next: Cancel all credit cards! Well, that was the easy part. I had a driver’s license, photos, insurance cards, etc. I could not tell you exactly what was in there. So, the hint is: Write up an inventory of your wallet and e-mail it to yourself. It will make a bad situation a little better.

Shawn, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: Hate to throw out things that you still can get mileage out of? If you have those wet wipes that have dried out, if they are in a plastic container, just add water and they are good to go again. If you have lipstick you hate to throw out because you love the color, just use a cotton swab to dig down into the tube and then apply. You will be amazed by how much lipstick is still down there.

Peg Garrick in Kenilworth, N.J.

Dear Heloise: My husband has found a solution for those round shoelaces that keep untying themselves every hour when you walk! He paints them with rubber cement. They stay pliable, but the surface remains rough, and the laces stay tied all day. After six months, they may need another bath, but that beats retying constantly.

Delores Gustafson in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Dear Heloise: As everyone knows, “green” reusable shopping bags abound at local grocery and discount stores and now come in a variety of colors and designs. In fact, I just purchased some precious pink bags celebrating breast-cancer awareness. I thought they would be great as gift bags, and I have already gifted family and friends using them. They are inexpensive, decorative and reusable. My friend uses some sports-themed ones for his tailgating supplies.

Darlene, via e-mail

Dear Readers: For applying a clay or mud facial mask, a foundation or blush brush is a dream. You get an even, thin layer, and there is no waste. Just wash the brush after use.

Heloise

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

King Features Syndicate