Dear Heloise: Why is it that no one sends thank-you notes or cards anymore? I taught my daughters to always write a note of appreciation to let people know you received their gift and, if possible, how you planned to use it or something nice about the gift. Unfortunately, my daughters never ...

Dear Annie: Last week, my good friend “Jess” called me at 6 a.m. to ask if I could drive her to an appointment that same morning, even though I had to be at work by 8. This kind of last-minute favor is becoming a pattern. I’ve been tempted to say no, but she will always guilt me with ...

This week, families across our state are gathering to spend quality time together, give thanks, and, of course, eat some delicious Minnesota-raised turkey. We all know we live in divided times. But this Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for the fact that what unites us as Minnesotans is far ...

It had been many years since I’d sat down and watched a livestock auction in person. I was pleased to learn that most things about sale barns hadn’t changed. My wife and I raise a few Jersey steers. We normally sell them as halves and quarters of hanging beef to friends and relatives. For ...

Dear Annie: I work at a school as a teacher and have struggled over the years with how cliquey the other teachers have been. Shortly after I started there, the pandemic happened, and many people friended each other on Facebook. Because that was the only source for a sense of community as we ...

Dear Heloise: I have a pair of dressy flats in a sort of silvery-black color. I noticed that they had become scuffed and looked worn, with some of the color getting muted. It occurred to me to try putting some petroleum jelly on them. I was astounded at the difference! They were almost as good ...