DEAR HELOISE: After wasting too many bags of wilted lettuce, I finally found a simple way to keep it fresh for much longer. I now place a dry paper towel inside the container or bag as soon as I open it, then store the container or bag in the refrigerator. The towel absorbs excess moisture, which usually causes the leaves to spoil quickly. I check the towel every few days and replace it when it feels damp.

Since I started doing this, my lettuce stays crisp for nearly twice as long. I also use this method for spinach and kale, and it works just as well. This easy step helps me cut down on food waste and keeps my salads tasting fresh. I learned this the hard way after tossing out one too many soggy greens.

• Rachel S., in Phoenix

DEAR HELOISE: Fresh herbs used to go bad before I could use them all, but I fixed this problem with a quick solution. I chop the herbs, place them in an ice cube tray, and cover them with olive oil before freezing them. Once they are frozen solid, I transfer the cubes into a sealed bag.

When I cook, I drop a cube right into the pan for instant flavor. This method works great with basil, parsley and rosemary. I even mix different herbs to create ready-to-use blends for specific recipes. I label each bag so that I can grab exactly what I need. Since I started doing this, I waste far fewer herbs and save time in the kitchen. After one too many bunches spoiled in the fridge, this method made cooking much easier.

• Sophie W.,

in Madison, Wisconsin

DEAR HELOISE: I’ve been reading about how so many people neglect to say “thank you” in a phone call, with a written note, or by just saying the words. Frankly, I think it’s a bit cruel to skip this practice. If the gift is mailed, how would the sender know if the gift arrived?

I have five children, and they all write thank-you notes and insist that their children do the same when they receive a gift. It’s just basic manners, and shouldn’t we all teach our children good manners?

• Patricia D.,

in Provo, Utah

DEAR HELOISE: My pantry used to feel cluttered and hard to manage, but I completely changed it by switching to clear glass jars. I transfer items like rice, pasta, beans and snacks into matching containers. Now I can see everything at a glance, which helps me keep track of what I have and what I need.

The tight lids keep food fresh and protect it from pests. I add labels so that I can quickly grab the right ingredient without searching. Since I made this change, my shelves look neat and organized, and I no longer buy duplicates by mistake.

• Tom H., in Des Moines, Iowa