Flying Squirrel Indoor Play Gym

09/29/2015

Hello to you all! This project is still very much alive!

Over the summer I did a ton of work on it, and came to the conclusion that I must start smaller. A hard pill to swallow, to be sure (who doesn't want their full vision realized at the start?)

After some thought I find myself re-energized, but essentially back at the drawing board. I am looking at other, smaller spaces around town, while continuing to get suggestions and feedback from friends, community members, and of course my own children. :)

I am still planning to open this space, it will just take longer (and start smaller) than I thought it would. Please continue with your suggestions, kind words and thoughts, and support for what I hope will be an amazing addition to our community!

Thank you thank you for your patience!!

07/26/2015

It's been a while! Two weeks ago I had a whirlwind day wherein I met with a builder, a play structure guy, a lender, and an architect. Everyone is very excited about Flying Squirrel! A lot is in process. Of course I want it to happen RIGHT NOW!.....but reality is a bit slower. I want to let you all know that I'm keepin' on!

06/04/2015

Flying Squirrel will be in Port Angeles, which is in the FINAL round for Best Town 2015. Voting ends TONIGHT at 9. PLEASE take 10 seconds to vote! No personal data needed. Please give a boost to this amazing town.... and share the link with everyone, please!!

http://www.outsideonline.com/1972941/best-towns-2015

One of these 64 towns can be called the "Best Town Ever." Crowning the winner will be up to you.

05/28/2015

Making this another long weekend! Excited to go on a field trip with my family this weekend to play in nine separate parks around Puget Sound (designed by the play structure company), so that I can make some final decisions! Also a day at the Imagine Children's Museum in Everett for inspiration and fun! So far this is a pretty cool "job" :D

05/15/2015

Play structure design is in, and despite the low ceiling height, it will be fantastic!! The question: is the building owner of the potential space willing to let us drill and bolt the structure into the concrete floor (among other modifications needed to make this a reality)? Phone call made, email sent, fingers and toes crossed....

05/01/2015

While we're waiting (=boring) to see an awesome play structure design, let's have some fun and talk about the children's museum side of things.

Many of you have already shared cool things that you've seen at children's museums, or things you've dreamed up! One of my favorites that I've heard involves a vast array of games using velcro :D

I want to hear from everyone! Please share an idea of something that you think would be awesome for kids to do indoors....

05/01/2015

I am having regular conversations with the play structure design companies, and am becoming well-versed in the intricacies of play structure design, installation, and regulation. As with much in life, something seemingly simple is anything but once you begin to peel back those proverbial layers. I remain committed and excited for Flying Squirrel to become a reality, and I appreciate everyone's continued support and encouragement!

04/11/2015

Hello! So many of you have asked what is happening with Flying Squirrel that I thought I'd take to FB to keep you updated. First of all, thank you so much for your enthusiasm for this space!! The positive feedback has been amazing!!

Almost 350 families took the survey last month! The results are in and..... to begin, Flying Squirrel will encompass a play structure, a children's museum-type activity area, toddler- and baby-only areas, and a cafe!

The likely space for this is the vacant building at First and Race streets. The holdup is that, at 14 feet, the ceiling height is low for a play structure. I have two companies working on designs that fit the low overhead, as well as will be accessible and interesting for children of ALL abilities. I won't settle until it is awesome!

The survey also showed tremendous support for an after-school program. The WA State regulations on this are numerous, but there is a woman at a local inspection office who has cheerfully answered all of my questions, and is guiding me toward licensure.

Creative carpenters, contact me! I have as yet to choose a builder for the children's museum-type portion of the space. I'm thinking it will be science oriented, e.g. cause and effect, brain games. I have a million ideas, and I'm looking forward to implementing them on a rotating basis!

Last, but seriously not least, is the cafe. At the minimum I'll be offering coffee and espresso-based drinks, fruit only smoothies, and simple fresh foods (e.g. baby carrots, apple slices). I may also offer sandwiches, but maybe not right away. I have found a vendor with fantastically delicious coffee and tea!

If you've made it this far, you are as excited as I am to make this indoor gathering place a reality for our wonderful Peninsula. As always, I enthusiastically welcome any comments or suggestions you have!!