DEAR SUN SPOTS: This letter is to thank members of our community who have sent generous donations to the Painting Fund Campaign at Mexico Congregational Church. We know that the “Green Church” with its unique color and beautiful stained glass windows serves as a landmark for the town. We are pleased to have its shakes and trim restored from the effects of 120 years of wear.

While we have not yet reached the fund’s goal of $20,000, we want to acknowledge the support we have received. The campaign continues. Donations may be sent to Mexico Congregational Church, UCC, 163 Main St., Mexico, ME 04257. — “Green Church” trustees, Mexico

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’d really love to get feedback from your readers on a couple of subjects. First, I’d like to hear from people who have signed up for solar farms. How’s that affecting your electric bill, and would you recommend it to others? Renewable energy such as solar sounds great, but I’m hesitant about signing up while it’s still so new. Also, how do heat pumps affect electric bills?

I really enjoy your column. Thanks for your help. — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I hope lots of readers share their info here and that it is helpful to you. If you haven’t already, go to: https://www.efficiencymaine.com/ to check out the information for rebates on heat pumps, cost calculators, and testimonials from customers, etc. You can also call Efficiency Maine at 1-866-376-2463.

Keep us posted on what you decide!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for a book I read many years ago about making Christmas quieter and simpler. It was titled, “Unplug the Christmas Machine.” I’d like to get a copy for myself and one for my town library but I can’t seem to find it. I know it’s too late to get it this year but I think it’s a very good book to refer to throughout the year and especially leading up to Christmas. Is it still in print? — Jason, no town

ANSWER: I found the revised (1991) new and used paperback copies of the book compiled and written by Jo Robinson and Jean C Staeheli on Amazon for under $11. There are also used copies at ABE Books (https://www.abebooks.com/) and Thrift Books (https://www.thriftbooks.com/).

If anyone in Sun Spots Land has an extra copy of this book in good condition that they’d like to donate to Jason’s library, please write in. It’s a very useful book that helps family members organize themselves regarding their Christmas celebration and what they really want it to look like in the future. I recommend it!

Along the same vein is a newer book published in 2019 and written by Beth Kempton called “Calm Christmas.” This self-help book has maps, diagrams and journaling tips for navigating the holidays. Kempton also can be found on Instagram if you want to sample some of her ideas for free.

Lastly, a book I once received as a Secret Santa gift is “The Little Book of Christmas Joys” by H. Jackson Brown Jr., Rosemary Brown and Kathy Peel. I bring this cute little book with its plaid cover to its place on my coffee table at the beginning of every December. It has 432 simple holiday ideas and some yummy recipes.

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.