DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for a wonderful column. It is so informative and helpful. I am sure that I am not the only one in Maine that is finding it more and more difficult to find supplies and charts for counted cross-stitch.

I have been to Jo-Ann Fabrics both in Auburn and Topsham, Craftmania in Auburn, Michael’s and A.C. Moore in South Portland, and they all seem to be downsizing their cross-stitching departments.

Some of us do not have access to the Internet to search for specialty stores. Are there any such shops still left in Maine? It seems a shame to have to travel out of state. Thank you. — Kathy, Auburn

ANSWER: According to an online search, there is at least one store still left in Maine; it also has an Internet presence.

Stitcher’s Corner in Wiscasset (7 Washington St., 877-882-4141, www.stitcherscornermaine.net) “specializes in counted cross-stitch, crewel, embroidery and needlepoint. We welcome customers who are in beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of stitching. Assistance is readily available during store hours by telephone, or in person.”

Perhaps readers will know of others.

Just because you don’t have the Internet at home, you are not out of options. More and more libraries are offering computer services. At the Lewiston Public Library they have a computer lab that offers one-on-one assistance. Even if you don’t want to order online, you can see what products are offered and then call or visit to buy.

Another advantage of the Internet is that many hobbies have groups online, where enthusiasts share tips and ideas.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for information pertaining to a current L.L. Bean television commercial. The commercial includes a catchy tune as background music. The tune sounds like a child’s song, sung by Leon Redbone. Can Sun Spots find out who the artist is and the title of the song? Might this song be on a CD? Thank you. — Debbie Blais, Lewiston

ANSWER: According to online sources, that song is “Big Rock Candy Mountain” sung by Haywire Mac.

Wikipedia said it was written by Harry McClintock in the 1920s. The lyrics are as follows:

One evening as the sun went down

And the jungle fires were burning

Down the track came a hobo hikin’

And he said, “Boys, I’m not turning.

“I’m headed for a land that’s far away

Beside the crystal fountains.

So come with me and we’ll go and see

The big rock candy mountains.

“In the Big Rock Candy Mountains,

There’s a land that’s fair and bright.

The handouts grow on bushes and

You sleep out every night.

Where the boxcars are all empty,

And the sun shines everyday.

On the birds and the bees

And the cigarette trees,

The lemonade springs

Where the bluebird sings

In the Big Rock Candy Mountains.

Haywire Mac recorded it on “The Great American Bum” around 1930. The album is available on Amazon.com. If you don’t want to order online, you could check with local music stores, such as Bull Moose Music, and see if they can get it for you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Clover Health Care, 440 Minot Ave., Auburn, is planning its craft fair for Saturday, Nov. 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those wanting to rent a craft table should call 784-3573, ext. 134, or e-mail cloveractivities@mainecare.com. Tables are $25. — Jim Parker, director of activities

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). Please include your phone number. 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 e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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