Dean, I tried the first link I got Page Not Found, but the second link took me to the crocuses which are lovely.

Sandra and Nigel, thank you both for your interest in and concern for Don Sineti. Saturday's benefit for him was more sparsely attended than I would have wished, but that may be because many people plan to go to benefits closer to their homes. This one was closest to mine and I probably won't make it to any others. Also some people have sent checks directly to Don.

At this benefit, I summoned up the courage to lead the double-pull halyard chantey A Hundred Years Ago. I had that morning taken the second of four chantey classes at Mystic Seaport. I had written my own verses based on the history of the Charles W. Morgan. I took liberties with the history and rhyming patterns, and it's obviously written by an amateur. I first sang it in the class with a quavering voice but made it through without my throat constricting from nervousness and ended with cheeks flaming with embarrassment. My classmates were kind and encouraging. At the benefit my voice quavered less and so many strong voices joining in was a huge support.