Aaaaah

Hello from balmy Key West! Meet what my mother affectionately calls the "National Bird". These chickens are a protected species and have free reign of the island. I knew I had arrived in Key West when I woke the first morning to the sound of a rooster announcing the day. It made me smile. Sorry that I have been out of touch. Blogger wouldn't talk to our slow dial up connection until today.

So, how is vacation? In a word: WONDERFUL. We are in Old Town this year instead of New Town which is a big change. New Town is the end of the island which connects to the other keys and where most of the day to day amenities such as grocery stores, Home Depot, Sears, and fast food places can be found. Old Town is the happening part of the island where the bars and funky businesses are located. Instead of biking a mile or two to the happening area, this year we just walk down the stairs! SO much fun. Walking and biking everywhere is such a treat that I will miss on returning to New England. I generally go through withdrawal. It seems we have been eating our way across the island. It is impossible to get to all of the good places to eat because there are so many! Some that we have visited so far and I would recommend to anyone coming to Key West are:

Camille's - One of our favorite breakfast spots

Henrietta's Bakery which recently merged with the Dennis Pharmacy Luncheonette where Jimmy Buffet got his first Cheeseburger in Paradise. All the food there is yummy and moderately priced. Ironically, my parents went in there the morning before the luncheonette was set to reopen in this new location and ended up agreeing to work there! They are having a great time.

Louie's Backyard - lovely view of the ocean and an inventive menu

Latitudes - it recently changed hands, but the food is just as good. To get there just hop a boat and relax on the short crossing. This year we saw dolphin this year during our journey out. Pricey, but you cannot beat eating on the beach from a decadent menu.

Clinton Square - couldn't find a link. The best conch fritters on the island come from a little stand right on the square. A must for any visitor.

O.K. so enough about the food. What about that yarn shop Knit Wits? I've been there at least three times this week! First, to check it out. Second, to get yarn for Amanda. Third, to get yarn for myself. Think I'll go for four? I've been busy. I have finished my first sweater! (Picts when I get home) and am half way through another. The BICO has been scrapped. I think I am going to give up on Homespun...

I guess that is all for now. Off to enjoy the fleeting last days of my vacation. Happy Stitching!