Q: My daughter-in-law likes a brand of toys for our granddaughter by a company called Melissa and Doug. But now that Toys R Us has closed down, it makes toy shopping more challenging. My granddaughter wants the grooming pet play set by this company, and I can't find it. Help, please. — Mrs. C. Wilson, Snellville
A: You'll have no problem finding Melissa and Doug Feeding Grooming Pet Care play set, and you won't have to go far. It's available for $29.99 at JOANN Fabric and Craft, 1630 Scenic Highway, Snellville, 770-972-9656. The 24-piece play set allows children to feed, groom and train plush pets. It comes with food bowls, play food and treats along with grooming supplies, including vibrating clippers.
Q: For years I have been able get my fix of chocolate Necco wafers at Cracker Barrel. They no longer carry them. Do you know of any other sources in the area? — Jeanne Jalbert, email
A: Run, do not walk to Intown Ace Hardware, 1404 Scott Blvd., which stocks rolls of the chocolate wafers at the register for $1.69. Since the Necco factory closed down this summer, without any warning, the future of these vintage favorites are still up in the air. The Necco company also makes Clark Bars, and the good news on that front is that the Altoona, Pennsylvania-based Boyer Candy Company recently bought the recipe, rights and equipment from Necco and plans to start turning out Clark Bars early next year. Let's hope that Necco wafers and the tiny whimsical Valentine hearts find a hero, too.
Q: In college, I only wore one fragrance and it was Design by Paul Sebastian. I haven't seen it in many years. Is it still made? If so, it would make me so happy to find this perfume once more. It has such a nice soft scent. If possible, I would like to find it in the Atlanta area. Thank you. — L. Hansen, email
A: Yes, your favorite perfume from your college days is still available. Boasting top notes of tangerine and mandarin, Paul Sebastian Design also offers hints of jasmine, lily of the valley, cedar wood, musk, and amber for a powdery finish. A 1.7-ounce of Paul Sebastian Design eau de parfum spray costs $18.77 at Walmart, 2525 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, 404-464-4480.
Q: Some time back, I remember hearing about an umbrella that opened inside out. Instead of folding down when you closed it, it folded up so that you could close it easily when you got into your car. I'd like to find this before our rainy season begins. I don't mind ordering it because I haven't noticed them around. Thanks. — Lou Mason, Atlanta
A: Lou, you won't have to order Better Brella because you can find it at some Bed Bath and Beyond stores for $19.99. Not all stores have the clever umbrella in stock, but I found the Better Brella with reverse open/close technology at Bed Bath and Beyond, 130 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta, 770-673-0171.
