Hints from Heloise: Flowers Bring Joy to the Living

Readers share their thoughts on gifting and enjoying flowers

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In this edition of the Hints from Heloise column, readers share their perspectives on the joy of receiving flowers, whether for special occasions or simply as a gesture of appreciation. The column explores the differing views on flowers being for the living versus the deceased, as well as practical tips for making the most of limited milk and reaching high grocery shelves.

Why it matters

This column provides a lighthearted and relatable look at the role flowers and other everyday items play in people's lives. It highlights how small gestures and simple solutions can make a difference, fostering a sense of community around shared experiences.

The details

The column includes several reader submissions, including one from a woman in Central Texas who shares her late mother's view that "flowers are for the dead," but later in life appreciated the birthday and Mother's Day flower arrangements her daughter would send. Another reader, Heloise, notes that she would often send flowers to her hosts as a thank-you for their hospitality. The column also covers tips for using dry milk in recipes, utilizing a "grip 'n' grab" tool to reach high grocery shelves, and preventing tears when cutting onions.

  • The column was published on February 25, 2026.

The players

Lori

A reader from Central Texas who shared her late mother's view on flowers, but later appreciated receiving them.

Heloise

The author of the Hints from Heloise column, who would often send flowers to her hosts as a gesture of appreciation.

Deb R.

A reader from New England who uses dry milk to have the amount needed for recipes without waste.

Karen P.

A short woman from North Carolina who found a 18-inch toy grabber to help her reach high grocery items.

E.S.N.

A reader from Laguna Beach, California who shared a tip for preventing tears when cutting onions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While I agree with Daniel D.'s mother that flowers are best enjoyed by the living, I had to share with you that my late mom said 'flowers are for the dead' when, as a kid, I presented her with a bouquet. However, later in life, she really did seem to enjoy the birthday and Mother's Day arrangements that I would send when I couldn't be present to spend the day with her.”

— Lori, Reader (tribtoday.com)

“Whenever I visited someone and stayed at their home, I arranged to have flowers sent to my hosts as thanks for their hospitality. Everyone I knew loved receiving flowers, especially since they were usually yellow roses.”

— Heloise, Author (tribtoday.com)

The takeaway

This column highlights the personal and sentimental nature of gift-giving, particularly with flowers, and how small gestures can make a big difference in people's lives. It also showcases practical tips that readers have found useful in their everyday lives, fostering a sense of community around shared experiences.