DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have lots of soda can pop tops to donate to a school or nonprofit. — No name, no town

ANSWER: If you don’t get any other takers, you’ll want to get those tabs to the Ronald McDonald House in Portland. Go to https://rmhcmaine.org/ or call 780-6282. The organization is at 250 Bracket St.

SUN SPOTS: On Ash Wednesday, March 5, the United Methodist Church on Park Avenue in Auburn is offering the Blessing Of Ashes in the parking lot from noon to 1 p.m. People of all denominations, and also those unaffiliated with a church, are welcome to receive the blessing. If case of inclement weather, the ashes will be available inside. — Wanda, no town

ANSWER: Thank you for letting us know that all are welcome!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We’re looking for a free small cat. We had to put our 20-year-old black and white cat, Oreo, down right before Christmas. We have been to animal shelters but can’t afford the prices that are anywhere from $100 to $255.

The cat will have a safe, happy home with an entire fenced-in yard for safety. We  have a 7- year-old cat that would love a new buddy. Perhaps someone will see this and write to Sun Spots. — No name, no town

ANSWER: Wouldn’t that be great if another Sun Spotter has a cat they need to rehome? I hope someone does get back to us.

Meanwhile, you may want to check other cat adoption nonprofits in the state. They may be able to work with you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the request for help with entertaining grandchildren in the Feb. 19 Sun Spots, my grandchildren and great-grandchildren love to eat ice cream for breakfast. It does not hurt them and they love telling their parents!

Another idea is to have a picnic in the middle of the living room. All you need is a blanket and peanut butter and jelly or Fluff sandwiches, etc. Baking cookies and cooking dinner together is always fun and so is making hats out of junk and having a parade through the house. Be sure to visit the Children’s Museum and go sledding! I recently taught my great-grandchildren how to play marbles. They loved the idea.

I must say I envy you a bit. There is nothing like playing with the children. And do not waste time cleaning before they come. You will have plenty of time for that after they leave. Enjoy! — Stephanie, no town

ANSWER: Can you be my grandma? You sound so energetic and full of life! Indoor picnics are especially fun…my grandchildren enjoy “puppy picnics” where they round up all their stuffed animal puppies and we make a charcuterie board of sorts, called a “party platter.” This tray includes a wide array of snacks and healthy cut-up tidbits to nibble on.

You reminded me of a few other activities, too…making forts with blankets, and playing Chinese checkers. And yes, the Children’s Museum in Portland is wonderful and we’re so lucky to have lots of sledding spots around with plenty of snow. Don’t forget to bring some hot chocolate along to balance out that ice cream you had for breakfast! Haha.

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