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DEAR SUN SPOTS:  There is going to be a Brain Injury Resource Fair at the Augusta Armory, 179 Western Ave., on Thursday, March 19, from noon to 4 p.m. 

There will be close to 50 exhibitors to help those with TBI, stroke, aneurysm and anyone who struggles with brain injury. This is free and open to survivors, caregivers, friends and family. I’m hoping people will mark their calendars and attend this great event. — Larry, no town 

ANSWER: All attendees must register in advance for this event. Go to https://tinyurl.com/h9e7eht8. You’ll also find a map and other information on the website. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for pussy willows — just enough to make a wreath or display in a vase. Has anyone seen some along the road between Bowdoin and Lisbon that I could get, or does a fellow Sun Spotter have any on their property that they are willing to share?

I know it’s early but I’m hopeful that I can find some. I take care of an elderly lady and she has been asking for these. Please write to Sun Spots and I will see your note. I read the column every day without fail! — No name, Lisbon Falls 

ANSWER: I’ve loved pussy willows ever since I was a child! These usually grow in marshy areas and I have seen pussy willows (or catkins) in previous years along the White Road and Route 24, heading toward Richmond, in Bowdoinham. 

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Just please be careful if you do find some in a marshy area and be cautious with the mud and ice. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for them, and I hope everyone who reads Sun Spots will too! I have a good feeling that another Sun Spotter will come forward with an armload of these for your lady friend. Let us know what happens! 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Years ago, I met a woman selling herbal remedies at the Common Ground Fair. She and her daughter were selling tinctures, teas, dried herbs, and so forth. She also teaches courses. At the time, I was still working and didn’t have time to study with her but now I’m retired and would like to find her. I don’t think she attends the fair anymore but I remember she was in the Augusta area, but it was so long ago. Can you help me? — Beth, no town

ANSWER: I believe you are asking about Gail Faith Edwards and her daughter, Rosa, two of the most beautiful people I know. They live and work in Athens, Maine, and their business is Blessed Maine Herb Farm (https://blessedmaineherbs.com/). 

A long time ago I attended one of their workshops that focused on preserving sea rose petals. We even made mead with rose water and had a sacred rose water bath in the woods. It was such a lovely experience. 

Currently, Gail has several online courses to choose from and I trust you’ll find a good fit for you. She has also published some books and gives consultations. I wish you well with your retirement and your journey with Gail if you choose to collaborate with her. 

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].

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