DEAR READERS: Some folks have written to tell me that they missed Sun Spots over the past two weeks. I was in Ireland visiting my daughter and her family, and it turned out that there was no one available to cover for me.

I’m back now after a wonderful visit spending time with grandchildren, sheep, horses, donkeys and assorted feathered farm friends. 

I carried in turf for the AGA stove, consumed loads of scones and Barry’s tea, and discovered a secret holy well on the property. There was a fair amount of rain, a significant number of rainbows, and shopping in Galway City for woolens.

Upon my return, I triple-checked my bags for faeries, leprechauns and Irish farmers. All clear from stowaways, I breezed through the airport checkpoints and arrived back safe and filled up with gorgeous memories. 

I promise that when I head across the pond again, I’ll give you advance notice, and if you have any questions about my trips to Ireland, just ask me. I’m more than happy to share! 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: It’s that time of year again for the Heywood Club on Crockett Ridge in Norway to have its annual “Lights Of Love” Christmas tree fundraiser. Now through the Christmas season, we will be selling lights for $5 each in honor or in memory of your loved one. 

We have already purchased a beautiful tree from Eastern Slope Farm. (Thank you, Peter and Becky Roy.)

The lights will be turned on from Sunday, Nov. 30, through Wednesday, Dec. 31.

You can send a check, made out to the Heywood Club, to Barbara Townsend, 475 Crockett Ridge Road, Norway, ME 04268. 

This has been a great fundraiser for the club and we are more than halfway to our goal of $10,000 to make needed repairs to the clubhouse. We are hoping for many lights to light up the night sky. If you have any questions, call me at 890-2103. 

And remember that we are only seven months away from our 7 Mile Yard Sale! — Barbara, Norway

ANSWER: I know everyone in the vicinity looks forward to this fundraiser which is a beautiful way to remember loved ones. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would like to send a big thank you to the wonderful people who helped me out on the morning of Nov. 13. My car died at the Walmart gas station and a very kind man and the attendant tried to get it started then pushed my car to a safe place. 

The attendant let me use his phone to call AAA. When the tow truck driver left me stranded at the repair shop, a wonderful gentleman working next to the shop brought me home. What wonderful people we have here in Central Maine. And thanks to you for publishing the good news! I’m so grateful. — Jan, no town

ANSWER: Angels are everywhere. And like Mr. Rogers always said, “Look for the helpers.” They are within reach, so never be shy about asking for what you need. You will be supplied, supported, and made safe. 

I’m so glad to hear that everything turned out OK and I hope the issue with your vehicle was a minor one. 

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 [email protected].