Proofreader provides a few grammar tips
HINTS FROM HELOISE
HELOISE
Dear Heloise: It pleases me to see folks being concerned about good grammar! As a proofreader/grammar girl, I must add in my two cents. The word "healthful" needs to be used to describe food! The word "healthy" is for people. We also need to use "only" in better ways to make statements clear. For example: "A dryer sheet only has a onetime use." Placement is so important. And if one says "not only," it should always be followed by "but also."
The use of "gonna" and "wanna" doesn't bother me. I like to use them now and again, just like "ain't" once in a while. You do write very well with hardly any gaffes, dear lady, so you are highly complimented. Your service of wonderful tips helps folks in so many positive ways. I can tell that you're a caring person, so continue your great work! — Jeanette P., in Dayton Ohio
Jeanette, we all make a few mistakes with our grammar. I always giggle when I hear "lie" and "lay" used incorrectly. — Heloise
Letters in the mail
Dear Heloise: Instead of electronic means to stay connected to grandchildren, start writing to them. Encourage them to write back to you. Age-appropriate correspondence is always a delight on both ends. Everybody loves to get mail from the mailbox. It also teaches reading and writing skills. Drawing pictures and storytelling is a bonus.
The practice of corresponding is a lifelong learning experience. The joyful experiences are endless and priceless. — Patricia M., via email
Patricia, I've tried to encourage people to write thank-you notes, letters or just a small "hello" on postcards to various people for years. It's always exciting to get a letter in the mail, and it usually means so much to a grandparent or someone who serves in the military. They can go back and reread a letter anytime they want. To someone who's miles away, a letter can mean so much. — Heloise
Fresh bouquets
Dear Heloise: I met a man from the Netherlands a few years ago who was in the flower business. He told me that before putting a fresh bouquet in a vase, the vase should be rinsed out with a solution of water with a little bleach in it. This will kill any bacteria that is left in the vase, which is caused by rotting stems from a previous bouquet. It'll make your new bouquet last longer. — Judi V., via email
Keep mice out</p>
Dear Heloise: In response to Diane and using lavender to keep mice out of a birdseed storage container, I purchased a small galvanized steel garbage can to store my birdseed in. It's 5 to 8 gallons in size with a tight-fitting lid and a drop-down handle. I keep it on my deck, and mice, raccoons and opossums haven't been able to get into it. I keep it there throughout the year. Moisture hasn't been a problem either. — Gia, in Lincoln, Nebraska
