Good lord, what a shameless lot ye all are--and how I love you for it! And Bonnie, lass, you are ravishing--even if somewhat out of season in Toronto--in that outfit. Good plan to lose the potato. Great idea to get a good jump on the season, Mary Kate: so many lasses, so little time (and it's good to see you back with us--we have indeed missed you--and forgiven you are for forgettin' me). What a fine party this is--lead me to the wassail, Earth Spirit: take a sip and let me kiss it off your lips. And Emily, love--sorry to have missed you in Seattle makin' yer lovely statement. And Áine! You're even more beautiful than I imagined...Caitrin, I don't know what's the matter with that lad Embo; he's standin' right beside you and coming on to every other woman in the place. And they're cuddling the lad and jouncin' him on their knee (and I'm as jealous as kin be)--and Susan, your garlic and hot peppers are the sweetest perfume. Mian, I'm sure your weighting will help you with Cleigh--he does like his women buff, as the kids say. Dani, I think Art has three each for all the lasses, and maybe more for you--but plant one on me before you go see--and ask him for a song and a story: let's get this party going! And Alison, I know you have eyes only for Mick, but let me have your lips for a moment. And here's my first and best Mudcat love, the blessed Barbara: how I have longed for your kiss...

Bonnie, enjoy the party. Your uncle is in no hurry to leave. I'll just have a bit of madeira while I wait...

--seed