This is Shirley and we are back...with lots of help(I hope)

[snelsonbrown]

Hello there - well first I need to tell you that Norm and I did renew our vows at the end of Whitehead Street on Saturday and Rev. Albert Kee, who has been selling conch shells for longer than I care to remember, played the conch shell before Norm and I renewed our vows - what conchs are left in KW came and it was just great - even the tourists joined the party --what a way to bring in Norm's 67th birthday - we just got back about an hour ago but did what everyone to know that I came back with a lot of information, pamplets, coupons, books etc that will help anyone going on the western cruise. Wish I could help with the eastern cruise, but hands are tied at the moment, but we never know what the future will bring.
Dave I did find the great Key Lime Pie, I did find the bestest cuban coffee and cuban bread - I know I tried as many places as possible (of course tho mine are still the best) and I left "home" feeling I did accomplish everything everyone asked - I have found also where if my name is mentioned or the Perfect Gift they will receive from 10 to 15% off on all water sports - I also spoke to Vinny from Touch of Gold and he will do even better than he has been doing for those that stop by there--I have his business cards for everyone that wants them - I will sign them so he will know who you are - I want you to know now in case you are thinking so NOPE there are no kick backs --nothing - I just felt I wanted to help you cruisers in my hometown -
Dave I brought you two maps - one is the most complete map I could find of KW and also thought you would find the map of the cementary quite interesting and it too could be shared on your site.
I just had a short time to do all of the above, but I believe you will be pleased or at least I hope so -
I found shops that did NOT want to take the time to listen to me so I will exclude them in my recommendations -
I am making some calls tomorrow to complete some questions I had and then I will let Dave put it on his web site for all to enjoy.
Anyhow everyone take care and God bless each and all.
Luv ya all
Shirley

[prymsu]

Oh Shirley, you are such a dear to take such good care of us. I am looking forward to hearing more about what you found out, and will check Dave's cruise site often.

P.S. hope you found out some info on snorkeling..., but if you didn't well I understand cause you were busy getting us terrific deals on shopping, and other things.

we are so lucky to have you help us out! what a sweetheart!!!

[snelsonbrown]

Sue, I did find some great deals on snorkeling - that is one of the phone calls I want to make tomorrow - in fact I found about 3 places - BUT I want to make sure they are going to treat you all right -
Will post my answer tomorrow and also know I have free maps, pamplets etc that I picked out for anyone that wants them and AGAIN no you don't have to order anything from us.
Take care
Love
shirley

[prymsu]

thank you so much Shirley for looking into this for us!!!

[Dave_from_Marietta]

I was thinking about you this weekend... glad to hear your celebration was so special.

I'll send you an email.

[4nana]

Shirley and Norm....Many special wishes go out to you both on your very special vow renewal. May God keep you in his care and continually bless you.
PS...Happy belated Birthday to Norm:D

[appink]

Shirley and Norm,

Congratulations on your vowel renewal. I think it is wonderful to hear people taking marriage so seriously.

Shirley, I have heard so many great things about you on these boards. It really sounds like you and Norm go out of your way to help Disers make their dreams come true.

Take care and have many more years of happiness.

Thank you for all of the work you do.:D

[rcdisneyfam]

Shirley - Thanks again for Ross' basket for his 17th birthday. We also shared the bottles of wine at the pool at the Radisson on 6/21. Our 7 day Western cruise was the best ever yet that we have sailed on Disney. Glad to hear you and Norm are doing fine. Maybe next trip to FL we will meet you guys in person.
We did enjoy Key West, took the Trolley tour and got on and off and went to Jimmy Buffet's place. We didn't have such a good sunset, but we had a great time anyway. Thanks again and.....
May God Bless you!!!

[BethA]

Shirley, Sorry we missed you. Thanks for the great baskets. Hope Norman is feeling better. take care. Beth

[Fawn]

Shirley

CONGRATS to you and Norm! It sounds as tho you had a perfect day!

You two deserve all the happiness life brings!!

[ZooMommy]

Congratulations to you and Norm! I hope God blesses you two with many more years together! :D

[kfahygc]

Shirley:

We haven't met yet but I feel that I know you from these wonderful boards.

I'll be calling you in a day or two to order something.

Please keep up the reports. They are truly wonderful.

Kathleen

[WDWLVR]

Shirley,

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this research. I'm sure it will make planning our May 2003 Western Cruise much easier.

Congratulations on your vow renewal as well!

[snelsonbrown]

Hey everybody - thanks for all the congrats for Norm and I - we still feel like teenagers tho hummmmmmmmmm 50 years later :)
Anyhow made the phone calls that I needed to make - got a great deal going for all of those that are interested in all the water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skis, kayaking, - anything to do with the water - now as with Vinny - I am being sent their business cards and I will sign my name on the back of them then when you call to make reservations and get down there - give them the card and you get your discount - this just prevent a lot of confusion for those going on the Magic ---I know you will be very pleased with this company and the best part they are right there next to the Mallory Square.
Anyone wanting a card, can just email me.
Thanks again to everyone ------
Love
Shirley

[snelsonbrown]

Hey there,
I finally received the cards from Key Cat in Key West and they are offering a good discount to those that are interested in snorkeling, parasailing, diving, jet skis and kayaking - they seem to be nice people and have a sincere interest in pleasing their customers.
Anyhow I will send the cards to anyone that wants them going on the Western cruise.
Meanwhile all have a great time getting ready or dreaming of the time you can slip into Never Never Land.
God Bless each super good.
Always
Shirley

[prymsu]

Shirley, I have sent you my mailing address, and hopefully you can send me some of the cards of places that are offering the discounts, especially for snorkeling.

I will really look forward to getting them from you. You are such a dear to take the time to do this for all of us!

[Dave_from_Marietta]

Shirley, I got the bulging envelope and the followup letter. Thanks for all the stuff. I'll have to take a little time to figure out how to use it!

- Dave

[snelsonbrown]

Sue I am so sorry, but will you email me and send me that information again - I have been so distracted lately - write me at snelsonbrown@aol.com and will do so ok

Dave I knew you were going to get a bundle of stuff and I knew it would take time to sort it all out - I did get the business cards from Key Cat that when i sign the cards, the cruisers get an extra good discount which will save them all monies by doing it on their own --also am getting more discount cards within the week for all to use so as soon as I get them will send you some.

Meanwhile just got back from the hospital with Norm and am beat so calling it a night.

Hope all is great in everyone's world.
always
Shirley

[snelsonbrown]

hey there all,
Ok as I said I received the cards from Key Cat for additional discounts for all water sport activities -----------since postage has gone up and so many request for the information has come to my attention, I am asking that I be sent a self addressed with stamps for about $2.25 be sent to me and I will be more than happy to share with anyone who wants them.
It is my pleasure that I could be of help. I am still waiting for more coupons and as soon as I have them, will post it.
Always
Shirley

[JLSE50]

Thanks for all you do for everyone.

What kind of place is Vinnie's?

Will you post the link here to your info on Dave's site?

Jan :earsgirl:

[Dave_from_Marietta]

Originally posted by JLSE50

Will you post the link here to your info on Dave's site?

I haven't posted the info yet, but I'll post a link when it's up.

[snelsonbrown]

Dave you are an awesome fellow - you know that? - we are lucky to have you and did you know that? Well just making sure you know how much you are appreciated.
Always
Shirley

[prymsu]

Shirley, I will send you the $$$ to do this for me. Could you please list your mailing address on this thread please, when you have time? I don't want to mis-address a letter to you.

Thank you, and hope both you and Norm are doing well.

[snelsonbrown]

Hey there Sue,
The address to the shop is
The Perfect Gift
6550 North Atlantic Avenue
Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920

PS to Bobbi,
Your package is on the way to you - I put some extra stuff in there for you - the first recommendation for any water sports is Key Cat ---------but I am sending you other ventures - no one else would give me a discounts for the cruisers :-(
Anyhow hope all is well with everyone.
Hugssssssssss
From
Shirley

[prymsu]

thank you Shirley, I will get something off to you in the next couple of days. Do you drink wine? I would like to send you a bottle from the Amana Colonies, and you can only get it here stranded in Iowa. If you have a favorite flavor let me know.

Thank you.

[snelsonbrown]

Hello Sue,
Pleeassseeee do NOT send any gifts to me -- I have done what I have done simply b/c I wanted to make yours and everyone elses cruise a little better with the understandings of my hometown Key West - I just am glad that I was able to do it - ok? Now keep your monies sweetie ---it was my pleasure and accept it as that people can do something helpful without expecting something in return except a thank you and that is thanks enough.
Luv ya
Shirley

[JLSE50]

What a GEM Shirley is!!

Truely she believes in passing on the favors and love, not paying someone back. A never ending spiral of love and care!

What a loving attitude.

Jan :earsgirl:

[prymsu]

We are very lucky to have such a person grace this forum!!!

[kimber79]

Hi Shirley!

How exciting that you and Norm were able to renew your vows! I see that you were at the hospital with him, I hope all is well. You are such a sweetie to gather all of the information you did for us DISers! I can't wait until our October sailing, and being able to get some fun baskets from you!!

May God Bless you and keep you sweet!

Kim

[JLSE50]

HOW IS NORM??

Jan :earsgirl:

[snelsonbrown]

To everyone who kept Norm and I over the past year in thoughts and prayers.

First off there is no way I can say thank you EXCEPT THANK YOU.
By the Grace of God, Norm is feeling much much better and looks like he will be able to keep his promise to me and that is to give me at least 25 years of marriage (of course by then we will most likely lost count of the years) :D
Each of you made keeping the faith a lot easier.
Thanks again

I love you all.
Hugssssssssss to each of you
With Love
Shirley

[Fawn]

Shirley...that is such wonderful news!! Just a case of God sending his blessings down to one of his Angels on earth!

You and Norm deserve those 25 years and more....and we're so happy to hear he's doing well! Give him a big extra hug from PA!

[Cheryl N. WI]

Shirley, I am so glad to hear your good news about Norm!!!! This board sure is a great support group for prayers and pixie dust!

What size self addressed, stamped envelope should we send. Is the standard 4 1/8 by 9 1/2 inch business envelope sufficient or should we send something larger? Thanks for all yor help!

Cheryl:sunny:

[4crusinransiers]

Origanally posted by Shirley:
PS to Bobbi,
Your package is on the way to you - I put some extra stuff in there for you - the first recommendation for any water sports is Key Cat ---------but I am sending you other ventures - no one else would give me a discounts for the cruisers :-(
Anyhow hope all is well with everyone.
Hugssssssssss
From
Shirley

Thank you, Thank you Thank you Shirley! I can't wait to get it!
And can't wait to meet you and Norm!
We sail Aug 31st and will be staying at the Royal Mansions from Aug 27th till Aug 31st! Were going to check out the Space Coast for a few days prior to our Cruise!
:Pinkbounc :bounce: :jester: :crazy:

[snelsonbrown]

Hi Cheryl,
I would suggest a 10" manilla envelope with close to $3.00 worth of stamps - its a heavy package of goodies - Bobbie sent one last week and everything I had collected fit perfect in it - I am still waiting for more info to share with those that want "stuff" - I will be going back to KW sometime in October to check on my family and will again check with vendors etc to see what they can offer the Disney cruisers at a good discount. I know that most save for a long time to take these memory making trips and if we can help save you some $$$$$ -glad to do it.
Anyhow everyone have a great day and hope all is well in your world.
Always
Shirley

[RellingTwin]

Hi Shirley, I was wondering if you found out anything about the "swimming with sealions" at Islamadora(sp) key?
Thanks for all you do!

[WDWLVR]

Shirley,

I would love to get a packet of info on Key West, but don't want to take away from those cruising earlier or have things expire (we don't cruise until May 2003).

I'll keep reading threads and if you still have packets early next year I'll be sure and send you an envelope with postage for it all.

Thanks for all the help you have given. The info is great!

[snelsonbrown]

Hello Mary,
thank you for your letter - no the cards that I obtain do not have expiration dates on them - they are open dates - this gives the cruisers an opportunity to call and speak to Shelly with the information provided, ventures offered, and you will have enough numbers to call to make your own mind up at to what you would like to do in KW.
As I said I will be going down again October and should be able to do more than I did this time.
If you would like a pkg early, just send the envelope and stamps to cover it -no problem ok
Thanks again
Shirley

[snelsonbrown]

Ok Western cruisers - just wanted to give it one more try in case anyone was interested in the packs of information I got while I was in Key West - there are no strings attached or anything like it - just wanted to help ya save some $$$ there if you were interested in any water sports or jewelry.
I found out that the packages I have been sending out require at least $3.00 worth of postage (sorry - since postage went up it seems like it is costing double to send them ) hummmm come to think of it -it has - use to cost $1.79 and now a little over $3.00.
anyhow just wanted to ask one more time.
If so just email me at snelsonbrown@aol.com
Meanwhile hope all had a wonderful weekend.
Always
Shirley

[inkkognito]

Shirley, you are such a sweetheart to offer the info!
I was thinking about you today, as we were dining with some friends at a local restaurant, and the server was telling about another place owned by the same owner...it's called Key Westers/Hemingway Bar. I was pictured Ernest Hemingway with his bag of rocks! :) :)
You and Norm are always in our prayers. See you next month!
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.*****************

[prymsu]

Shirley,

I just mailed you an self addressed envelope yesterday. I went by an earlier post, and only put on around $2.50 in postage. If that is not enough, I will be sending you a note with stamps to cover the extra postage.

Thank you for taking such great care of us!!!

[snelsonbrown]

Hi Barb - I wonder where that place is called after Mr. Hemingway - Isn't that funny about the bag of stones - my cousin and I were just talking about it last weekend when she was here - most people in KW kept a blowing conch shell by their doors (my grandmother and uncle were awesome on them) but Mr. Hemingway kept stones -- I can shut my eyes and still see him today - Anyhow looking forward to seeing you again - don't forget the condo and car are open to you and Tony.
Hugsssssss to you

Sue don't sweat the postage sweetie - no big deal --let me know when you get them - also hope that it helps you a little with KW - I will be going back in October for a couple of days and will gather more information. PS I will also make sure you have my cell number in case of any problems or questions.
Hope your weeks of getting ready for your cruise is full of excitement and enjoyment.
Always
Shirley

ps - to all of those that I sent a package to - just drop me a note at snelsonbrown@aol.com and let me know you got it ok - thanks

[prymsu]

Shirley, you are soooooooo sweet. When I get the packet, I will send you a quick note with the extra postage in it. Thank you so much!!!

[4crusinransiers]

Shirley! Got my bulging envolpoe today! Lots of goodies to look through. About Key Cat, do you think we need to pre book?
What kind of discount are they offering? Its getting me excited going through all the stuff you sent!
Thanks for all the info!:Pinkbounc

[snelsonbrown]

So you did get your package - I am so glad - I know it was kinda heavy, but it is places that I myself recommend b/c I know how long they have been there etc - as I said am going back in October to do even better - with this type of information you can save quite a bit by doing it yourself and not through anyone else - I would call Shelly or Ahab at Key Cat and make the arrangements as to what, how and when - they are giving an extra 10 to 15% off due to the fact I spoke to them - just tell them you have their card that I sent you and you will be fine. If there are any problems, write me asap and I will get on it - again there are no strings attached - it goes to show people do do nice things for nice folks - Good luck
Always
Shirley

[snelsonbrown]

At least to me - Please let me explain something just in case there is any misunderstanding - I had to go to KW and when I knew I was going down - did go around to see what I could do for the cruisers with the merchants - i know what it is first hand to go to a strange town and pay through the nose simply because I was a tourist and a stranger in town - I wanted to make sure that each one that took the information I gathered could be assured that these businesses were honest and above board.
I have not or will not receive any compensation from anyone for offering to do this for each of you - nice people do do things things for other nice people and it is just that - that is it in a nutshell -
For all of those that requested information, your "stuff" is on its way. Just let me know you got it by email and i really hope it does help enjoy KW a little better.
Take care and God bless each and all super good.
Always
Shirley