On recycling used newspaper bags
HINTS FROM HELOISE
HELOISE
Dear Heloise: I know everyone wants to help by recycling plastic, but it really worries me that there are numerous people who suggest to save and return newspaper bags for the delivery person to reuse. I have no desire to get my newspaper inside a used bag that a neighbor may have returned to the carrier. It may have been touched by someone who's sick.
I know the carrier touches the bags, but the bag having been recycled before it gets delivered to my door isn't an option for me. What would my newspaper think about this practice? If they're OK with it, then they should advertise that their paper is being delivered in used bags. — Deanna M., via email
Deanna, if the COVID19 pandemic taught us anything, it's to wash your hands before touching nearly anything — especially after touching items that others might've touched. The pandemic may be over, but the germs we encountered are still here. Recycling plastic is an important part of our lives now and in the future. Any plastic that can be recycled should be. — Heloise
The small print
Dear Heloise: At the age of 85, I, too, have trouble reading labels, so I keep a flashlight on the counter. I shine it on the label, and it helps a lot. — Marci B., via email
Marci, I keep a magnifying glass in my kitchen to read all the tiny print on labels. It really made my life a lot easier, especially when I realized that the yogurt I was buying had 8 grams of fat instead of 3 grams! — Heloise
Listen and don't judge
Dear Heloise: I've never responded to a letter before, but I have to comment on the one from Julie in San Antonio. This is a perfect example of what's wrong with our country these days. Everyone has their nose in everyone else's business.
Who cares how someone else eats their salad? She can take it out of the plastic container if she wants to. It's nobody's business how other people eat their lunch! Just live your life the way you want and let everyone else do what they want as well. — Trish M., via email
Trish, I'm glad to see someone speak up about this. There are so many different customs and personal preferences where dining is concerned. Ask yourself, "Who does it harm?" If it harms no one, then you should go and find something useful to do. — Heloise
Doctors' portals
Dear Heloise: Here's how I keep track of my doctors' portals. I use the "Notes" feature on my iPhone to record each doctor's name, address and phone number, as well as my username and password to access their portal. I also make a separate note in my phone with all my prescriptions. This way, I always have the information with me, and I'm ready to fill out forms at the office before an appointment. — Shirley, in North Carolina
