Family Vacation in Key West

A few months ago, this past November, Wayne's sister, brother-in-law, nieces, and mom came down from Maryland for an all-to-short visit. We prepared an action-packed itinerary for their first-time visit to Key West. We gave a brief tour of Old Town Key West, took a sunset sail on the Western Union,

visited the Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key where Madeline and Lauren shook hands with a dolphin!,

played mini-golf at Boondocks on Ramrod Key, 

and took a trip out to Marvin Key, of course...

Edie and I planned a mid-afternoon trip out to the sand bar; a warm, sunny afternoon perfect for the dogs to play and for Edie to collect. Val and Kim followed us out on their boat bringing the total number of dogs to six: Lady, Brandy, Pebbles, Bart, Zuzu, and Tootie.

Zuzu always enjoys running with her friends at Marvin Key. Tootie, however, would rather stay on the boat but manages to enjoy herself in the pack nevertheless.

We all strolled to the other side of the sand bar, heading for the spot to collect horseshoes. Chris and the girls were enjoying the sun and the water. It wasn't too cold for them, probably warmer than the Delaware beaches in the summer. Meanwhile, the dogs amused themselves, playing tag and wrestling in the sand.

Once back at the boats, Tracy encouraged us to wear santa hats for our Christmas card photo. Reluctantly we agreed, and we are happy we did as the picture turned out great.

Then we relaxed for a bit, nibbled on some snacks, and enjoyed our conversation on this little spit of sand surrounded by turquoise waters just twenty minutes from home. 

Zuzu and Tootie, happy to be back on the boat, were nestled in their cuddy cabin while the other dogs played.

The sun started to sink lower in the horizon, it was time to head back for dinner. We piled on our boat,

and Bart was in good hands during the ride back to Sugarloaf on Edie's boat. It was another great visit to Marvin Key.

We're looking forward to the next family visit during which we'll be sure to take them to some of the missed sights in Key West, but we'll definitely make time for a return trip to Marvin Key.