DO JUST ONE THING

• Witch hazel is a natural astringent distilled from the flowers of a shrub native to North America. It’s often used to soothe acne-prone or inflamed skin because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, witch hazel has natural antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal qualities.

Friend worried woman is making bad decisions

DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my friends and I grew up in similar situations, with one of our parents being alcoholics. We shared our experiences with each other, and we each expressed that our biggest fear is to turn into our parents.

DO JUST ONE THING

• Did you know your old metal sports equipment can be reused, recycled and even turned into cash? Scrap metal yards often accept items like old bikes, dumbbells, soccer goals, metal baseball bats and golf clubs, since they’re made from recyclable steel or aluminum.

Reader wants to help classmate with career

DEAR HARRIETTE: Recently, I presented a classmate of mine with an opportunity to step into her career. We were talking about career goals, and she mentioned she wanted to gain more experience.

Successful medical care requires understanding

Dear Doctors: My husband’s endoscopy showed a small pinkish area at the base of the esophagus. He has no GERD symptoms, but his doctor has prescribed a big dose of a heartburn medication for life. Is that appropriate for just a small pinkish area? What questions should we ask?

Boyfriend upset by mom, partner’s relationship

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been dating my boyfriend for six years now, and I have developed a close relationship with his family. We got along immediately, and they welcomed me in. His mom and I speak regularly for long periods, and my boyfriend feels like it’s excessive.

Teenage daughter wants to study abroad

DEAR HARRIETTE: My 16-year-old daughter wants to participate in a summer study abroad program, and while I want to support her, I can’t shake my concerns. She’s never lived away from home before, and the idea of her being in another country without me nearby feels like a big leap for both of us.

Grateful to be part of Sharon’s book club

Iwas never a part of any team. I was terrible at sports. I was so bad at tennis in high school that my gym teacher sent me to the school nurse to have my vision checked. I didn’t bother to tell her I was wearing contact lenses. In elementary school, I was never asked to jump rope.

Woman spreads details about friend’s relationship

DEAR HARRIETTE: Last weekend, I went to a gathering at my friend’s house. While there, one of the people present asked how I’ve been, since she’d heard I was going through a rough time.

Hydration lowers kidney stone development

Dear Doctors: I recently passed a kidney stone. How likely am I to have a recurrence? I have been drinking more water as recommended, sometimes I eat fish but never red meat or poultry, and I get plenty of fruit and vegetables. Also, do I really have to avoid nuts and peanut butter?