Kerrin, I really liked your analogy to the diaspora. I think no matter our age or location, we all have that longing and love for Ireland...and now our love is visible in the outpouring for one of our own countrywomen as you have aptly described our Lindel. To rally 'round Lindel is a way to bring that love to fruition. She represents the best of Ireland -- her courage, her helpfulness, her kindness, her support, her generosity, her family (including us Donegaleires from around the globe). I must say I am so "proud" of and impressed by everyone on the Donegaleire list. Even 'though we don't really know one another in a face-to-face environment, we know each other in our hearts and are bound inextricably to one another. Lindel has been a real catalyst in our coming-together, as you have put it. I have a St. Patrick's medal, purchased in Ireland this past St. Patrick's Day, that is on its way to her. It bears the message which others have already posted in part: An Irish Blessing May the road rise to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand. I'll also send something from California and Singapore, the latter spot where I recently lived and from which I and Lindel in NZ often corresponded in real-time messaging in the nearly-same time zone while a number of our Donegaleire friends were sleeping. Roseann