I had a great time last night. It was wonderful to meet Mrrzy and Wotcha. Wincing Devil was also there as well as several people who identified themselves as perpetual lurkers and guests. Guest LynnT, was a surprise being in a Navy uniform.

The walk from the train station was longer than I expected but the neighborhood was interesting. After I arrived at Cate's I went into the room to wait for Mrrzy and Wotcha. It was interesting to wait for someone I had never met. There was a woman and a man in the room. Both were obviously waiting for someone so I had to make sure we weren't all waiting for each other. We weren't.

Mrrzy showed up and then LynnT and Chris, both lurkers, and Wincing Devil identified themselves. Wotcha seemed to be a no show. We moved to a table where we ordered dinner.

The restaurant was very nice. The food was good but expensive. The beers were even more expensive. Next time it will be iced tea!

LynnT has compiled a very useful and fun Shanty Hymnal. I heard some chanties and songs I'd never heard before and sang some they hadn't heard. I am now on the hook to send lyrics to LynnT.

Early in the evening a man showed up wearing a bright Hawaiian shirt. He settled at another table, sang a song or two and then, about halfway through the evening he identified himself as Wotcha. Mrrzy had met him before but was looking for a man with a beard! We were both surprised! I hadn't expected an English accent

All in all it was a great fun evening. I didn't get back to the hotel until late but partly that was my fault. It helps to pay attention to which train you board.