This was my first time going to Mystic Seaport and I must say that it lived up to its reputation. As a performer myself, however, I did not get to see all the acts. I missed Finest Kind entirely and I would have liked to see Danny Spooner's workshop on Australia.

It was really great to see my old friend Bob Webb who I had not seen since we both lived in southern California in the late 1970s. Serre l'Ecoute was quite excellent. Their driving a cappella vocals made me miss my former bandmates in Out of the Rain. I finally met Martin Hugill and was very impressed with his mandolin playing on Irish tunes. And I was pleased to see John Roberts again - he's one of my favorite English singers. Jerry Bryant was as charming as ever.

I was so pleased to sing with Celeste Bernardo who I love dearly. I only wish we had more time to rehearse with her. Thanks for your hospitality, Celeste, and for working so hard to learn the songs that Peter and I do.

There's more I want to say about the festival but my brain is still numb from standing next to Don Sineti in the final shanty sing with all the performers onstage.