Secure shopping

Dear Heloise: Before you put your credit-card number into an INTERNET SHOPPING site, make sure the site is secure. How to tell: The address will start with https:// instead of http:// -- M.M., Via E-mail

Hmmm? We called one of the larger Internet providers, and officials there said they hadn't heard of this. They suggested that you check the bottom of the shopping-site page for a small icon (padlock shape) that indicates the site is secure.

Always be sure the site is secure before you enter personal information and place an order.

Many of the sites list phone numbers you can call if you have questions, or your Internet provider might be able to tell you if a particular site is secure or not. -- Heloise

SEWING ILLUSTRATION

Dear Heloise: When teaching a left-handed person the art of hand sewing, sit facing the person while doing the illustration. -- Edith Fincher, San Antonio

Here are two great hints from Stacia Roesler from Alexandria, Va.:

CRAFTING SUPPLIES

Anyone wanting to donate crafting supplies to an organization might also consider churches and day cares. Churches especially are usually on a tight budget and will appreciate donations of items that can keep little ones occupied or be used during Bible camp.

GUEST BASKET

I collect the soaps, shampoos, sewing kits and other toiletries from hotels when I am on business trips. I then augment these as needed with travel-size items bought from the store.

I put everything in a nice basket along with some other toiletry essentials (including over-the-counter medication samples that I receive in the mail, fragrance samples, feminine items, new spare toothbrushes, etc.), which I leave in our guest room.

That way, guests have access to many of the things they need without having to ask. You can also include in the basket any fragrances, gels, etc., that you have received as gifts and don't care for.

I include a nice card (made up on our computer) tied to the basket that welcomes the guest to our home and asks that person to feel free to use anything in the basket that he or she needs.

(A lovely gesture that I'm sure your guest appreciates. -- Heloise)