Dear Heloise: I wanted to start an education fund for my first granddaughter. I started saving all my $1 and $5 bills in a small box. Over time, I would add $10 or $20 if I had extra. It became a game of paying for things in cash to get change for the box.

I had one rule: If I needed to borrow from the box because I needed cash for something, I would have to put in more than I borrowed. I have now saved $3,000 doing this over the course of three years, which has been enough for my granddaughter’s fund and another fund for my new grandson. — Liz Ziegler, via email

VEGAN SOUP IDEA

Dear Heloise: Recently, a couple of readers wrote to you for suggestions for soups, as they were opening a restaurant and wanted soup options. May I suggest at least one vegan soup, which could also be the vegetable soup? (Not all vegetable soups are vegan.)

If beans or peas are added for protein, as well as plenty of vegetables and canned tomatoes, the soup can be so delicious, and anyone can have it. I like to put curry and other spices in mine, and I often use canned coconut milk for part of the liquid.

By the way, I know of several meat eaters who enjoy eating in vegan restaurants. Thanks, Heloise! — Richard, in Southern California

ANOTHER USE FOR CORKS

Dear Heloise: When we go on vacation, my husband brings a pair of tweezers and a needle for possible splinters, but he keeps the needle safely tucked away in a cork. — Leonce Haydel, via email

SOUND OFF ON WEDDING RECEPTION MUSIC

Dear Heloise: I recently attended a beautiful wedding and reception. Two DJs played the music. The bride and groom provided the playlist. Unfortunately, the music played so loud that older guests had to leave the room in order to visit with family and friends, while the younger generation jumped up and down to the beat of the music.

The DJs never took a break, nor did they mix in a small variety of musical styles so that older members of the family and friends would have a chance to dance. My suggestion to future brides and grooms is that a variety of music styles be provided so every guest can enjoy dancing “cheek to cheek.” — Joan Dignacco, Bantam, Connecticut

HANGING BASKETS

Dear Heloise: I found an easy way to transport hanging flower baskets: I simply hang them from the hooks above each back door of my vehicle. No spilled dirt or damaged flowers!

Love your column in the Tribune Chronicle. — Karen Brooks, via email

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Leo, who was adopted two years ago, is energetic and always ready for play. Here he is playing peekaboo. Leo’s love for snacks is undeniable. He’s brought immense happiness to our home. — Maria Monroy, Bronx, New York

Readers, to see Leo and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.