DEAR HELOISE: I house-sit and clean for a number of clients, and I wanted to share some observations. The use of granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms seems to be a high priority for homeowners today. I find that very busy patterns in granite make noticing spills and debris on countertops more difficult.

I find very dirty countertops in kitchens and bathrooms that, from first glance, appear fine, but after passing a bare hand across the counter, you can feel the dried-on food and other spills all over. Also, don’t forgo other more-helpful features when designing your kitchen in favor of granite. I see bare bones cabinetry without any helpful storage features, and an extremely expensive countertop just isn’t really helpful.

Just some thoughts from a retired kitchen and bath designer, home remodeling specialist, and contractor.

— Fran, via email

Fran, I understand that granite countertops are waning in popularity. In the ’80s and ’90s, it was considered the best countertop on the market. However, maintenance became a hassle for many busy people, and as you’ve mentioned, they are hard to keep clean. A friend of mine has to position her eyes level with the countertop to see where she missed a spot when cleaning her kitchen.

There are many other options such as manmade tops, wood with several layers of sealant, and even metal. So, when replacing a countertop or building a new home, my readers should always know there are a number of counters to choose from that can last them for many years.

— Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I am blessed to have six young great-nephews who were old enough to spend two weeks in out-of-state camp during the past two summers. They look forward to receiving notes, cards and letters. Unfortunately, they cannot read the mail we are sending them. Who do we thank for robbing our youngsters of the ability to read cursive? Surely, our educators did not make this decision.

— Sharon, in Middletown, Ohio

Sharon, I’m in agreement with you about cursive writing. It doesn’t take long to teach a child how to use cursive writing, and it may come in handy in their lives. I have some very old letters from my great-grandmother, which were written in beautiful cursive writing. When I read about the life she had on the farm and her daily activities, I can easily imagine what life was like for her.

— Heloise