DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am trying to find a doll that was popular about 40 years ago. It would be very meaningful to someone who is in great distress. The doll’s name is “Thumbelina,” and she wiggles like a real infant.

If somebody has one and would willing to part with it for a reasonable price, I would be most grateful and you would be doing someone a huge service. I can be reached at 376-5328.

Thank you for your terrific service to our community. — No Name, Lewiston

ANSWER: Thumbelina is available at eBay.com, but the dolls in pristine condition are rather pricey. However, there was one “needing TLC” for a minimum bid of $9.98.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: You are such a source of information. I am hoping you can help me. I have been told there is a lady in this area that repairs composition dolls. Her first name is possibly Anita. Thank you. — No Name, Auburn

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Please, would anyone know why soldier beans for baking cannot be found in the stores anymore? Thank you. — Eda Perkins, Andover, [email protected]

ANSWER: Sun Spots had this exact same question last November (must be bean time!). There used to be a company called the Kennebec Bean Co. in Vassalboro that packaged those beans. That company declared bankruptcy. However, according their website, Green Thumb Farms (P.O. Box 147, 123 West Fryeburg Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037, 935-3341) has a two-pound bag available for $5 plus shipping at http://tinyurl.com/372srbl.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Can you or a reader recall the name of a tavern that stood on the banks of the canal on the corner of Main and Canal streets? It may have been called The Knotty Pine at one time, but does anyone know what it was called before that? My husband and a friend were reminiscing and couldn’t recall this bet of Lewiston trivia. We greatly enjoy your column. — Happy Reader, Lewiston

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I bought this book, “Chicken Soup for the Grandparent’s Soul,” at a garage sale earlier this year, but I didn’t look at it closely until recently. Several pictures of grandchildren were left in the book: Jacob, Oct. 23, 1997, and Nicholas, Sept. 23, 1995. Could the owner please claim the book and pictures at the Sun Journal? — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: The owner can write to Sun Spots, and she will arrange to leave it at the customer service desk for them.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Cottrell-Taylor Christmas Basket Fund was established about 40 years ago in memory of Henry L. Cottrell, a principal, and later Robert Taylor, a Monmouth teacher. Its purpose is to provide Christmas dinners and gifts for families in Monmouth who are in need during the holiday season.

This fund is sustained through donations. Because of heartfelt contributions and group of dedicated volunteers, we were able to assist 65 families with food and gifts for their children last December.

The committee is back at work and accepting donations for the 2010 Christmas baskets. We realize times are still difficult, so your consideration is appreciated. In addition to monetary donations, new clothing, toys, hats, mittens, gloves, games, puzzles, school supplies and books for all ages would be helpful.

A box is available by each school office for these items. If you choose to donate money, a check can be written to the Cottrell-Taylor Christmas Basket Fund and left with one of the Monmouth school secretaries or mailed to Laurie Gifford, P.O. Box 218, Monmouth, ME 04259. The donations would be most helpful by Dec. 1. Thank you. — Penny, Monmouth

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Sandy River Nursing Care Center, Route 133 in Farmington, will be holding its annual craft fair on Friday, Dec. 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Luncheon will be served by the activity department starting at 11 a.m. All proceeds to benefit the Residence council. If you would like a craft table, please call me. — Lynette, 778-6591

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 e-mailed to [email protected].