Manatees and the Crystal River

Today, we got to do something that Elaine has talked about for years and it was one of the top activities I wanted to do on the trip.  We got to swim with the manatees.  They are truly gentle giants and got to see many today.  We rented wet suits and a  pontoon boat and  Elaine took us to the twin sisters spot. 

It was a beautiful day and the water was so crystal clear in the area where the manatees were.  Most of them were sleeping and so we didn't interact with them as much as I would have liked but it was incredible to be with them in their natural environment.  It's hard to believe that they can suspend their big bodies and move in this shallow water.  It was no more than three feet deep. 

I'm one happy lady

Stefan I think liked driving the boat the best

Every boat needs a fashion statement!

Janae and Stefan were a little overwhelmed by the amount of people crowding in on them and the number of manatee.  Janae said it was like a sea of manatees.  Right when we were in the thick of them, Janae and Stefan headed back to the boat.  I thought it was absolutely thrilling and couldn't understand their retreat.  It might have helped if we would have stayed right by their sides and Mark would have swam too.  He opted to focus on being the captain of the boat and keeping company with Tony.

I thought it was an absolute blast and one time a mother was nibbling on a boat rope.  I went to view them, and the baby nibbled on my toes and fins.  When I was swimming between the boats, they were swimming with me and I ended up on top of the mom.  The water got so shallow, I got trapped and had to gentley push her down so I wouldn't end up riding her.

Elaine and I swam up into the spring and it was so clear and pretty.  The water was not that cold with the wet suits on.  We did see a large tagged manatee that was resting.

We did anchor later out in the middle of the river, and some frisky manatee swam quickly by us.  I didn't see one coming and he swam right under me.  I was kind of sad, when we headed the boat back.  I didn't want it to end and wanted to keep going.

We did enjoy ice cream again afterwards before heading home. Tony took me to a wonderful fruit/vegetable stand.  Later in the evening, Tony and I played duets.  It was a lot of fun but Tony quickly pointed out my shortcomings and things I need to work on:  flexibility, quicker slide and better rhythm especially on dotted 8th,16th.  Good stuff and it was great to be reminded since I had slipped into some bad habits.

Our time flew and it was hard to say goodbye.  As we were driving away, Janae said, "Mom, I really like them, promise me it won't be 9 years until see them again."  When your children's hearts are touched, a mother is eternally grateful.  Thank you Tony and Elaine for opening your home and hearts to us! We love you guys.