A Record Number of Swans

     Early in the new millennium, on a cold clear day following five inches of fresh snow during the night, with a finger of ice stretched across the entrance to the harbor to keep big waves from crashing in, numerous passersby and a few of the Island's roving dogs stopped in front of the Post Office to watch the large flock of swans, sixty-three in number, feeding near shore. They were congregating with a sizable flock of ducks, part of the gaggle that routinely stops traffic by waddling across the street for an evening meal.  Neither species minded the proximity of the other on this very peaceful and quiet day. Where they came from and where they will go when the harbor freezes over are anybody's guesses.