Dear Heloise: Thank you for all the useful hints and delicious recipes printed in the San Antonio Express-News. I am 92 years old, and I have a gift I enjoy receiving.

I’m not computer-savvy, but my favorite granddaughter in San Antonio, Missy, is a whiz. She is a very busy lady, yet she gives me her time as a gift. She sits with me, and we pick out the items I need by cost, colors, styles and sizes, etc. Then, she does the ordering. The gift is her precious time, and that is truly a wonderful present. — Sue Miller and Missy, via email

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIBRARY BOX

Dear Heloise: For books we no longer use, we have a free little library box in our neighborhood where we can exchange books. It’s a “take one, bring one” kind of thing. — Helen, Spokane Valley, Washington

GO-TO, EASY

SPAGHETTI A LA

CARBONARA

Dear Heloise: This is my go-to recipe when I can’t think of anything else to prepare.

1. Cook enough pasta for 1 or 2 servings. I prefer angel hair.

2. As the pasta cooks, cut up two or 3 slices of bacon into small pieces and fry until crisp. Drain off most of the fat. Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Add 1 beaten egg and stir until the egg is cooked. Stir in as much grated Parmesan cheese as you want. Serve in a heated bowl with more Parmesan cheese if desired. — Carolyn McDonough, via email