Editor,

I wanted to take a moment to thank all the restaurants and establishments in our island community for being so kid- and family-friendly.

As parents of two sweet girls under 5, we have felt nothing but welcomed, even when we had two babies in tow.

I could write a long list of the restaurants and places here that have been so considerate and warm to our kids and young family, but you already know them.

One special “shout out” to Kim Bailey at Pickles for always going out of her way to be super family-friendly and so kind to our girls.

Parents of young ones know it’s not always easy going out with the lil’s and we know it’s a bit more work for the restaurants, but we hope we make it up with loyalty and support.

We have only had one negative “family unfriendly” experience in all of our time on Whidbey.

The owner of this establishment — that shall remain unnamed in this letter — seems to demonstrate a bizarre hostility toward child patrons, and we will not be returning — which is sad because our girls loved their offerings.

But back to the point of this note: Thank you to the overall vast majority of establishments and restaurants in our extended island community. It may too often go unspoken, but the open door and warmth you offer the young families with “tiny patrons” is so greatly appreciated. We love supporting you and will be back again and again, along with a couple of the cutest little customers around.

Jake Stewart

Clinton