Sunday, March 6, 2016

Dear First Time Moms and Dads

I have a confession to make. I just met your child; you know the one that's 18 months (young) .. or perhaps 6 months; or 10 months or 22 months. I just met you child and my confession is: "I know"
Every child is unique and every parent has a special technique.  It's most often true that each child has a special blanket, or toy and most kids have that one food that they will eat if all else fails.  Just about every child cry's when you leave; but I promise you, (at least when it's with me, their is a good chance you might be crying longer) As a suggestion --- long goodbyes, always make it worse, for everyone.
Here's the thing.. I will listen to all the instructions; illnesses; allergies, medications,bedtime, etc.  All of this is important.  Having a phone number to reach you in an emergency; that's important -- Beyond that, we are really going to be great; we are going to be more than great; we are going to be excellent.
You could spend hours in your head thinking of all the possible things that might happen and, I could mention in the 20-years I've been doing this, I've had lot's of interesting situations; and most of my stories are about you -- yes you -- first time parents. Which, by the way, is totally understandable! But, I'm here to tell you now -- because I won't tell you in person; "I know"  I'm going to let you babble on about the special blanket and the hidden snack (but only if I definitely need it) I will also let you show me how to use the IPad, and how to put the special movie on (but only if he won't sleep) I will consult with you about your hair and clothing, because; you left it until the last second and now you can't decide. If you are like most, you have suddenly realized you haven't been without him in months and your not sure you want to even leave.. we will work through that together as well.
Here's what "I know" --  vacation doesn't usually run exactly like home; as much as we try to keep some kind of structure.  "I know" I will do my best to follow the instructions I'm given; but mostly "I know" I will provide a safe and secure place for your first child, and no matter what happens, I am confident I will find a solution.  Lastly "I know" if you can relax just a little bit, your will find Key West to be a great place to go out and have an amazing time.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

March Madness - Key West Style

Let me give you a sneak peak of the great stuff going on in March! Stay tuned for the next post, because this is just a sample! 

March 4 & 18 @ Dusk: Free Movie under the stars at Bayview Park; to follow up- to-date information; go to http://www.kwoutdoormovies.com/

March 5 @ 11am-3pm Key West Pre-School Key West Pre-School Co-op Annual Spring Fair

March 4 & 5 @ 8pm The Jewel Box Review: Celebrity Impersonation and Comedic Performances by Boys in Dresses! Featuring comedy, live vocals, show-stopping production numbers, dazzling costumes, and much more!

March 12 @ 5pm "Picnic Under The Stars"-- a fundraiser presented by Boys & Girls Club, Key West Art & Historical Society, Mote Marine Laboratory, and Womankind.
The family-friendly event welcomes all to bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic-style celebration in the grass-covered citadel grounds of the historic Fort located at 3501 South Roosevelt Boulevard. 
The entry fee is only ten dollars, with children twelve and under free.

March 11 & 12 @ 1pm-4pm Old Town Restoration Foundation House Tours  

March 14 @ 8:30pm Key West Theater present Julia Murney singing "Broadway" hits!  

March 19 @ 5:30pm-8pm Equality Florida Key West Gala - The Gardens Hotels; 526 Angela Street to RSVP; go to; http://www.eqfl.org/keywestgala

March 1-26 "The Producers" @ 8pm The Waterfront Playhouse

We look forward to your arrival!