DEAR SUN SPOTS: I had brunch with friends in a local restaurant last week. We arrived about 10:30 and the wait was long — more than an hour. We almost did not stay, but as it turned out, we are glad we did.

Once the three of us were seated, our friendly, energetic server, who, when we asked, said his shift had begun at 7 a.m., took great care of us and we were enjoying hot, delicious meals within 20 minutes after sitting down.

Of course, we told him how much we appreciated his exemplary service and tipped him well, but I would like to do something more. The restaurant was so crowded that day but he was completely unruffled and made the experience so wonderful.—Sarah, no town

ANSWER: You encountered a true professional. If you wish to acknowledge employees and volunteers of organizations and businesses who you feel have gone above and beyond, I suggest the best thing you can do is write a letter about your experience. Make a call to ask for the name of the owner or manager of the restaurant, and take the time to craft the letter on nice notepaper. (Emails are fine, but sometimes get overlooked by busy bosses.) Include the details, and the person’s name, if you thought to ask. I do try to make a habit of asking for the server’s name for this very reason.

This positive action takes only a few minutes of your time and could make a difference in a hardworking individual’s work life. A note of praise for a job especially well done is always appreciated. These letters are often saved in an employee’s file, and can lead to special recognition, an award, or even a raise or promotion.

If you want to write to Sun Spots about someone you have been impressed by as you go about your daily life, that is fine, too, but your thank you note has so much more of a chance to be seen by the person you were wowed by and the one in charge of rewarding him if you send it directly to the source.

Other things you can do is return to the restaurant as a repeat customer and recommend it to others. If the establishment has a web site or Facebook page, share a positive review. These are read by thousands of people, and believe me, they can make or break a reputation so be lavish with your praise if it’s deserved.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I bring my potted geraniums in every winter and they normally do well, but so far this year, they are spindly, start to bloom, then the blooms die off. I am not sure what to try first to save them. Does anyone have advice to share?—Leona, no town

ANSWER:. You may want to cut them back to the bare root, removing all their leaves and spindly bits so they can start over. Then place them in a spot where they are getting five to six hours of sun each day, and allow the soil to dry out about one inch down. Do not overwater. Also, sprinkle a tablespoon of coffee grounds on the soil about once a month. I would love to hear what other readers have to offer on this topic.

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 will not 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.