Dear Inhabitants and Friends of the Humanistic Archipelago,

First of all, greetings to all. It is hard to believe that nearly a month
has passed since we were together in Bruxelles, building the future of our
humanistic area. We hope everyone arrived safely home with the same warm and
enthusiastic thoughts that animated us during those important days. Of
course we still have much work to do to give form and substance to our
decisions and insights - but I think we have already found that working
together is fascinating as well as useful - and inspiring.

In fact we have received a wonderful and surprising gift: as he made his way
home after the conference, our colleague Wim Kratsborn
(w.kratsborn@planet.nl) was inspired to write a song about the Archipelago.
In keeping with our archipelago theme it is a sea chantey. Wim is planning
to record the music, and has already sent us the lyrics for our enjoyment.
So we are sending them to you and placing them under the Archipelago
Christmas tree - on the www.archhumannets.net
< http://www.archhumannets.net/> site.

Thank you Wim!

On another note (excuse the pun), you are certainly aware that this year the
Commission has been very late in sending the grants, and this has created
problems for all the Thematic Networks and for our Archipelago too. We are
very sorry indeed. We have now received sworn promises from Philippe Mouraux
that the arrival of the Archipelago money is absolutely imminent. Please be
assured that as soon as it comes you will be reimbursed for the Bruxelles
meeting.

For now, Laura and Adrian, our webmaster, join me in sending you best wishes
for serene and happy holidays with your loved ones and for a magnificent New
Year.

Kathy