Hints From Heloise

Heloise

P.O. Box 795000

San Antonio, TX 78279-5000

Fax: 210-HELOISE

E-mail: Heloise(at)Heloise.com

TRAVEL HINT

Dear Heloise: I liked the suggestion to put your name on the inside of your suitcase as well as the outside. Another tip is to include a copy of your itinerary in the luggage in case it gets misrouted on your departure trip from home. That way, the airline can find you at your destination and hopefully return your bags to you before your trip is over. -- Lucy Wells, Wheaton, Md.

SHOWER EMERGENCY

Dear Heloise: I had just moved into my freshly painted apartment and decided to take a shower, which is in one very small room. I closed the door and later discovered that I was locked in. Apparently, the painter had installed the doorknob backward when he finished painting. So here I am with no phone, no glasses and no sharp objects to try to open the door.

After that experience, I always take a phone, my glasses and a laminated list of phone numbers into the bathroom with me. I definitely feel better about closing that door now! -- S. Blum, Warrenton, Va.

So, how did you get out? -- Heloise

MINIBLIND CLEANING

Dirty metal or plastic miniblinds? Make a solution of 1 teaspoon mild dishwashing liquid and 1 quart warm water. Use an old sock dampened with this homemade cleaner to wipe the blinds clean. -- Heloise