DEAR SUN SPOTS: A large indoor/outdoor rummage and yard sale will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Aug. 13, at the First Universalist Church at 36 Pine St. in South Paris. A bag sale will follow from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Clothes, books, furniture, kitchenware, household items, tools, and much more will be available at very reasonable prices. — No name, South Paris

ANSWER: I’m always happy to post these announcements of events that benefit nonprofit organizations. Please note that if you are conducting a private yard/garage sale, you can talk with Classifieds at 784-5411 about printing an advertisement for your sale. Many people live for these sales as it’s a great way to get fabulous deals on household items and more.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Aug. 2 column about the helpful lady in the red car reminded me that I meant to share my story about a good Samaritan. I was driving towards Lisbon on Lisbon Street this past Saturday when I heard a noise, felt a wobble, and pulled over to find that I had a flat rear tire. I called AAA and was told my wait would be about half an hour.

Within five minutes, a teenage girl and her mom pulled up behind me to make sure I was okay. They had just been grocery shopping and the teen was practicing her driving. They offered me a cold bottle of water and a banana then kept me company until the nice man from AAA arrived. The mom and daughter made the time pass so pleasantly! As an older lady, I really appreciated their concern and their conversation. They acted as if they had all the time in the world.

I was also happy that the tire only needed a repair — I didn’t have to buy a new one. That’s what Nat and Lucy were hoping for along with me and I just wanted to thank them again and let them know the outcome! — Doreen, no town

ANSWER: I could write a book about all the good Samaritan stories that come my way through Sun Spots. I always encourage everyone to share. I’m glad you’re okay!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: A few years ago, I read in Sun Spots that there was an insect that looked like a hummingbird. It’s not that I didn’t believe it, but I had never seen one until yesterday when I saw two while I was picking basil in my garden. They’re so funny-looking. Are they rare? I wonder how come I’ve never seen them before. — No name, no town

ANSWER: These creatures are hummingbird moths and look like they came straight out of a Dr. Seuss book. There are four species in North America with the hummingbird clearwing moth being the most prevalent here in Maine.

The conditions in your garden must have been just right for them in that moment and you were meant to finally be introduced. They are the most active close to dusk and gravitate towards flowers that also attract bees and hummingbirds such as bee balm, red valerian, honeysuckle, jasmine, butterfly bush, lilac, escallonia, petunia and phlox. If you have any of those flowers in your garden, they took that as an invitation to visit.

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.

Copy the Story Link