DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’ve had many ideas from Sun Spots. Keep up the good work!

I’m looking for Christmas bulbs that light up and make bubbles. Please run as soon as possible with any stores that carry them. — I.G., Lewiston

ANSWER: Sun Spots may not have answered in time for Christmas purchases, but perhaps you can get a good deal on them in the after-holiday sales.

There are many online sources, including the ubiquitous Amazon.com, but the only place advertising was Lowe’s. Perhaps readers will know of local sources.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Family members of a person who has served in the military might want to consider a novel Christmas present — having their loved one’s name engraved on the memorial in Veterans Park.

If the serviceman or woman has already passed, it is a great way to honor their memory.

Applications can be obtained by calling Joe at 786-0488 or me at 784-1206.

Completed applications can be sent to the L&A Veterans Council, P.O. Box 2316, Lewiston, ME 04241. There are many applications out there that need to be returned.

The next stone will be dedicated May 25. — Maurce Dutil, vice chairman, L&A Veterans Council

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Over the summer my daughter accumulated many Cabbage Patch Kids dolls at yard sales. None of the dolls came with clothes, and I know that before she passed my grandmother used to knit clothes for my own dolls, but we cannot find any patterns so that I can knit some clothes for my daughter’s dolls.

If anyone out there has any patterns they wouldn’t mind sharing, I would love to be able to knit some clothes for my daughter. Thanks! — Vanessa Roy, Mummaroy0811@gmail.com

ANSWER: An online search leads Sun Spots to believe that you can find free patterns at several websites. At craftatticresources.com (http://tinyurl.com/d6yxdek) a Cabbage Patch bonnet and dress instructions are posted, along with some other outfits.

At ehow.com (http://tinyurl.com/7okj84k) there is a list of possible other sites. It also suggests visiting your local library for pattern books.

Readers will also undoubtedly be able to help as well.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Could you please reprint the names and phone numbers of the ladies that make bears out of old fur coats. — No Name, Auburn

ANSWER: The teddy bear ladies are:

* Angie Rogers, P.O. Box 185, Gray, ME 04039, 428-4415

* Paulette Anctil, Lewiston, claireanctil@myfairpoint.net, 784-6728

Sun Spots will answer your second question in another column.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have several very gently used baby items such as a high chair, bouncy seat, etc., that I would like to give away. Are there any organizations in the L-A or Oxford Hills regions that provide items like these for young mothers that would like these donations?

Also are there any places that will take used alkaline batteries for recycling instead of just throwing them away?

Thanks for all your help. — No Name via email

ANSWER: The list of groups that will gladly accept your donations is long, but Sun Spots isn’t sure if there is a group that specifically deals with donations of items for babies. Readers will surely inform her.

As for the batteries, Sun Spots just recently learned that Staples will recycle those alkaline batteries.

Sun Spots checked with Office Max in Auburn, but they don’t offer that service.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In answer to Jason’s question as to the Grateful Earth, They no longer have a store, but they do have a Facebook page under the same name as the store with some inventory items. Also call 783-6308 for more information. — jeanbob4@roadrunner.com

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 emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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