We're back, and back with some great programs and good times. Our first meeting since the Christmas break was really a showstopper! - and before I tell you about that first meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 8, let me invite you to come with us and enjoy the variety and interesting programs we have lined up in the next few months.

First of all, we always have a good time just meeting and greeting each other, then sing a few songs accompanied by Vivian Daniels. We take time to share joys and concerns about our members, have a brief meditation by our chaplain, salute the flag, and then have the program.

Such was the case of our first meeting. Bob Zimmerli, subbing for Chaplain Mary Jo Zimmerli, gave a brief background of the "Three Wise Men" since the previous Sunday was Epiphany Sunday where the story of the Wise Men appear in the Bible (and also Christmas celebrated by the Eastern and Orthodox Christian churches).

Then June Hathaway, our president, introduced Alina Blakesley, who from the moment she said "hello" to her closing song - was a masterpiece. We have had the privilege of having Alina with us before, and she always has something new, entertaining, and meaningful and always with a delightful graciousness. She was asked to tell a little of her background, and told us that she was born in England, the daughter of Polish parents who had escaped from Poland during World War II.

She said the Polish people were joyous people who enjoyed good music and entertainment. She, of course, had her accordion with her and was dressed in beautiful Polish attire. Along with giving interesting and gracious remarks about her favorite songs she played, among other songs, "Beer Barrel Polka," "The Anniversary Waltz," "Bess-me Mucho," and "Maid in the Woods." She also danced and sang, including a great rendition of "Moon River." She then asked Vivian to play the piano for a few minutes so she could make a costume change. She returned in a fairy costume (saying she got the dress from the St. Andrews Thrift Shop); a silver crown, a wand with a star on the end and slippers. She said she would soon be 60 years old (hard to believe) and that living in England she went to British music hall shows, where people always spoofed themselves and then sang a song (which almost had us rolling in the aisles) "No one loves a fairy when she's old," and it would be fair to say that she brought the house down. She concluded with singing "It's A Wonderful World," because she said that if we look around and find our blessings, it really is a wonderful world.

To say that she received a huge ovation of thanks would put it mildly. And so dear friends, that's why I (on behalf of the Coastal Club) invite you to come and join us. We have a great time, and we would like to share our times together with you.

This past Tuesday, January 14 we had members of AFS students from Thailand and Germany. More about that and upcoming programs next time.