Well we're back. We were able to leave for a Caribbean cruise and return without causing even a ripple in the county's daily activities. We were off to have our share of fun. That's what the cruise lines promise you if you book with them – regardless of who "them" is. Yet, there are a few things the commercials and brochures do not address. Like for instance there are times when you are required to stand in line with hundreds of other fun-seekers before you can have your share of the festivities. Frequently those people who are not having fun outnumber those who are by a ratio of lots to few. While there is no corollary between the two, the number of old people outnumber those shown in the ads is the same ratio of lots to few. ...more

December 22, 2007

At Wee World Preschool, children are encouraged to be creative. Cyndi Keding proudly displays her 4-year-old son's artwork on the refrigerator at her family's home. Almost every day, she has something new to put up. There are finger paintings, crayon creations and holiday-related crafts. ...more

November 17, 2007

The Plant City Dolphins youth football players and cheerleaders are on a roll. ...more

November 15, 2007

Zephyr Christian Church's new pastor wants to help children get ready to start school. ...more

September 29, 2007

At 3 and 4 years old, a child seems to define the concept of living "in the moment." She may crumple when a parent leaves or hurl a plaything when it frustrates, all with little evidence of self-awareness. ...more

September 14, 2007

With school starting at Head Start centers in this fast-growing Portland suburb, so many 3- and 4-year-olds are trooping into classrooms that administrators are holding separate morning and afternoon sessions. ...more

September 8, 2007