DEAR HELOISE:I'll be moving in the next few months. My concern is how can I move my plants safely? -- Louise in New York
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Moving can be hard on both people and plants! Plants can be delicate, and they need a little care. But here are some hints to make it easier on both:
* Move plants yourself. Most moving companies will not transport plants more than 150 miles because the vans are not temperature-controlled.
* When transporting the plants yourself, don't park in direct sunlight! Try to find a shady spot.
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* Consider repotting large plants into the same-size plastic pots to cut down on weight and avoid breakage, but do this a few weeks in advance so they have time to adjust.
* Prune large plants to prevent breakage, and loosely wrap them in sheets or towels.
* If placed in boxes for moving, punch air holes in the sides of the boxes, and use some damp paper around the plant itself and on top of the soil.
If moving across state lines, check with the state's department of natural resources to find out about any restrictions regarding bringing plants. If you can't take your plants with you, give them away to friends and family. -- Heloise
DEAR HELOISE:I love camping. Before each trip, I set up my tent in my backyard and check for any holes or damage. I also go through all my other supplies and make sure nothing needs replacing or new batteries. There is nothing more frustrating than getting to your campsite and realizing you don't have everything you need. -- Taylor, via email
DEAR HELOISE: Iuse reusable grocery bags. When I first started using them, I was constantly forgetting them. I found a solution that works nicely for me, and I thought it might help another reader. As soon as I am done unloading my groceries and putting them away, I fold my cloth bags back up and place them in my trunk. That way, they are always there the next time I go to the store. -- Michelle in Iowa
DEAR HELOISE: My family and I are trying to be healthier, but we were a little overwhelmed about making the change all at once. Now we try one new recipe a week. If we like it, we make it again. Eventually, we will have enough healthy new recipes that we all like. And, hopefully, our eating habits will be healthy ones. -- Hilda in Mississippi
DEAR HELOISE:I hate printing something and getting only half of what I printed because the printer runs out of paper. I stick a page of brightly colored paper toward the bottom of the stack. When I see the page come through, I know it's time to add more paper. -- A Reader in Alabama
