Key West
(*See the picture show below*)

With beautiful weather to start our holiday weekend in Key West, we once again headed on our journey. Stopping at the Islamorada Seafood Restaurant for lunch, what a surprise to meet up with the members of the S. W. Miata Club, which was unplanned but a great start for a meet and greet with our sister club. Both clubs have dedicated members who either drove their Miatas, or flew into town from other states, just to be part of what is now one of our best events of the year. It was great to see them all, and I hope they will continue the tradition in years to come.

Driving through Stock Island, just before we arrived in Key West, we were treated to the most spectacular air force jet demonstration of our troops training skills which filled the sky above. I cannot take credit for the wonderful timing, but can only say it was awesome.
The Blue Heaven Motel was eagerly awaiting our arrival, and this years’ staff made up for last years bah humbug attitude. The weather was a bit too cool to take advantage of their nice pool area.
Members took advantage of the Tiki Bar at the Southernmost Motel, only ½ a block a way, to meet up for drinks and catching up with old friends before heading to Camilles Restaurant for dinner.
Saturday morning most members headed for a refreshing walk to Blue Heaven, where they remembered us and greeted us like old friends. It would not be Key West with at least one meal at their restaurant. Following breakfast we did what we do best. We walked Duval Street, one end to the other, over and over again. Hopefully it burns off the calories we have been gathering tasting tempting treats and stopping at the Flamingo home made ice cream shop.

Saturday afternoon is reserved for decorating our Miatas for the annual Holiday Parade which takes place in the evening, and decorating is what we do best. Everyone is busy with lights, bows, garland, huge blow up floats, covering every inch of their Miatas. Members scurry about looking for a few extra suction cups, or tape or ties to make sure everything is secure on the cars in order to be drivable, and safe. Once complete, we take the slow journey driving through town only to hurry up and line up and wait for the parade to start. Having to arrive early gave us time to check out other floats and marching bands. Our Miatas are loaded down with tons of candy and beads to toss into the awaiting crowds of young and old alike. I really don’t know who enjoys the parade more. From the looks on their faces, it is about equal.

It’s a slow drive back to our motel to remove our decorations. It really is amazing how long it takes to put decorations on, and how quickly it takes to remove them. I’ve also noticed it builds up a fierce appetite, and this year after much searching, I’ve hit upon a new restaurant, and it is a winner.
The name is Square One, located in the same plaza off Duval Street where we used to go for Italian food after the parade. The owner of Square One went out of his way to make everything perfect for us, the food, drinks, service, and even brought in a piano player just for the evening. They got into our Gift Exchange game as much as we did, making suggestions on which gift to choose, or when to exchange. This place is a definite keeper.

One of our members made a great find returning from dinner one night. It is located on a corner, two blocks from our motel, and is a small piano bar, with no cover or minimum, and truly talented singers and piano player set in a cozy atmosphere. They basically work for tips. It was the most pleasant and relaxing way to end the evening, and I will be ending each evening there.
I personally would like to thank each and every member who attends year after year, as well as the first timers. Your smiles are the reason I enjoy making this event happen.
I already cannot wait for next years adventure.

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