ANSWER: There are many versions of molasses pie, so Sun Spots hopes a reader can help you find the one for which you’re searching. A popular and traditional Dutch version of molasses pie is called “Shoo Fly Pie” and has a cake-like consistency. Researching molasses pie recipes that hail from the New Brunswick region, however, Sun Spots happened upon this simple, no-bake, Acadian recipe called “Tarte au Bis” from a website (terriau.org/cuisine.htm) that celebrates the connection between Acadian, French Canadian and Cajun cultures. Enjoy, and please let Sun Spots know when you’ve found the right one.

Ingredients:

1 cup molasses

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 1/2 cups boiling water

4 tablespoons cornstarch

Preparation:

Mix molasses and brown sugar and add to the boiling water, continue to boil. In a separate dish, dilute corn starch with a small amount of water. When the molasses and sugar come to a good, roiling boil, thicken it by adding the corn starch mixture while stirring. Pour into a baked pie crust and let cool. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Androscoggin Home Health and Hospice Prayer Shawl Program began in 2003. The goal of the program is to provide hospice patients with a shawl to let them know that someone is thinking and praying for them. I would like to thank the more than 179 individuals who have dedicated their time, money and talent to the AHHC Prayer Shawl Program.

Shawls have been made by individuals who live in the Lewiston-Auburn area, different places in Maine and by people from out-of-state. Since the program began, we have averaged 20 shawls per month. Doing the math, you will see that we received thousands of shawls. We are now temporarily freezing the program until we get low on shawls.

Being a volunteer in the shawl program is a heart-warming experience. As I sort the shawls, I see all the beautiful colors and patterns as well as feel the texture of the yarn. Somehow, I can sense the dedication and love put into each shawl. Some shawls have a special touch, a note is included or a small charm is sewn on the shawl. There is a lady who has made hundreds of shawls. She never writes her name, but I can spot her beautiful shawls.

Thank you cards have been sent to the people making the shawls. For those who have not received a note, my apologies. It may be that you wanted to remain anonymous, or that you forgot to give your address. Please know that your work is very much appreciated, and I thank you.  We will be contacting you once we get low on shawls. May you all be blessed with good health and many joys. — Maggie Pelletier, AHHC Volunteer.

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