Dear Sun Spots and readers: My son is in the 82nd Airborne as a paramedic, in Iraq. I have been surprised at how much things cost there. Items they need, even such things as toothpaste, are at least double if not triple the cost. He has spent $10 on a tube of toothpaste!

There are many there trying to remind themselves of home and loved ones. Some soldiers, sadly, don’t even get mail. My son asked me to send him some items that would remind him of home, comfort and love. He has requested a bunk-size blanket, quilt or afghan and real pillow. I thought it would be wonderful to help make his stay, and those of his comrades, more homelike.

I am planning for 60 to be made and given to them. I have 11 afghans so far but I don’t expect to be completed in time for Christmas. I can’t sew or knit that fast. I’m hoping there’s some Sun Spots readers out there who would be willing to help these Maine servicemen and women.

Other items that would help are international phone cards, cards, letters, blankets, shaving cream, shampoo, wet wipes, Purcell, Germex, deodorant, AA and AAA batteries, duct tape, sandwich bags, Odor Eaters, boot liners, coffee and tea. I would like to mail them by Christmas and will need help with the mailing. I have also sent letters to President Bush and Sen. Susan Collins’ offices. I have heard nothing.

I can be reached via e-mail at [email protected], or by phone at 777-3373. Additionally, you can please drop them off at my home. I will leave a box outside 339 East Ave., Lewiston, ME 04240. Thank you to everyone who can help make this a brighter Christmas seasons for our troops. – Mary Ann Bissonette, Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: My son and daughter-in-law just found out that they are going to have twins! Great blessing! I am hoping that you or any of your readers may know of places that sell used baby furniture that is not too expensive as they need two of everything! They do have one son so they saved a lot of baby clothes for a boy! These twins will be one of each! So I am looking for clothes and furniture, car seats, a double stroller, two small babies will fit in one crib so I am looking for one of these also! If you have any information please call me at 375-6611. Thank you very much. – Nona Ostrander, No Town.

Answer: Congratulations to you all Nona! These are exciting times for you all.

In addition to responses from readers, you might contact:

Raggamuffins Consignment Shop, 1761 Lisbon Road, Lewiston, 786-2886. They carry women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, as well as purses, belts and other accessories. It is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sundays until November. It is also on Center Street in Auburn, 784-2884 where Goodwill was previously. It is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Phone 784-2884. And speaking of Goodwill, Sun Spots would also encourage you to check any of these out.

If you and the family are also down the Portland way you might consider checking out Kids Unlimited, 352 Warren Ave. #9, Portland, 878-5028. It is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Dear Sun Spots: I am looking for directions on how to make my own soap. If anyone has the recipe I would appreciate it. I may be reached via mail at Marjorie Reynolds, 337 Main St., Winthrop, ME 04364. – Marjorie Reynolds, Winthrop.

• Readers seeking flu clinics in the area (Sun Spots column Saturday) should please note that the times for community flu shot clinics taking place at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center Oct. 26, Oct. 27 and Nov. 19 are incorrect. Those interested in participating in the clinics at Lepage Conference Center, Campus Avenue, Lewiston, should note the correct times, Oct. 26, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Oct. 27 8 a.m. to noon and Nov. 19 from noon to 5 p.m. Cost is $27, checks and cash accepted, if not a Medicaid participant. Some insurance companies are also billed for the charges. Contact St. Mary’s Hotline at 753-5464.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be posted at www.sunjournal.com in the Advice section under Opinion on the left-hand corner of your computer screen. In addition, you can e-mail your inquiries to [email protected].