Dear Heloise: An old broom can be used to “corral” rolls of tape. Love your column! — Ann G., via email

Ann, I love to repurpose items when I can. I had an old broom handle that I mounted on a wall in my crafting room. I took all my rolls of ribbons and string, then strung them on the pole. It was so easy to just pull out a length of ribbon when I was wrapping a gift.

Do any of my readers have other handy hints like this to add to our collection? Let us know by writing to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

A RESPONSE TO

HOMESCHOOLING

Dear Heloise: You recently had a reader who asked about homeschooling. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to homeschool her two boys, but her husband felt she should.

My mother homeschooled my sister, and while my sister loved it, I hated every minute of it. I felt isolated from reality and other kids my age. My mother was always patient with us and never complained about what she had given up. (She was a commercial artist and had a thriving career.)

By the time I was ready for middle school, I begged her to go to a public school, and she said if I really wanted to go, I could. So much depends on whether a child is ready for homeschooling. I’m a freshman in college now, and if I ever have a family, I will not homeschool my children. I would want them to develop alongside friends their age and learn how to get along with other children from different backgrounds. — A Reader, via email

TRAVEL HINT

Dear Heloise: I travel about 105 nights a year on average, so I’ve learned a thing or two about packing. If you are packing shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, or anything that can be sprayed or is liquid, no matter how tight the lid is, always place those items in a large zip-close bag to keep any spillage from ruining your clothing.

Always roll up your jeans and T-shirts, and don’t forget to pack slippers to wear around your hotel room. — H.S., in Detroit