Crystal River, Florida

Some random lady that came up while I was taking pictures

This year will be known as the year on the manatees. Having had our fare share of manatee encounters, here, here and here. We thought our previous trips were pretty successful. But it was nothing compared to the Crystal River trip we took over Thanksgiving and Christmas Breaks. Plus on Martin Luther King break, Blake went camping at manatee springs and saw some more. Yes, we took three trips (two to crystal river and one to manatee springs) this winter with friends and family, all were splendid. Seeing more manatees than we could count and swimming up close and personal with a few good looking ones. It is natural to be afraid of something so big in the water. Once I was swimming in a murky part of the river when I could not see but felt one swimming under me, I was terrified!!! Even though I knew it was not going to hurt me, I wanted back on the boat. However in the clear water, when the manatees seem to be as interested in you as you are in them, these big water mammals are fun cuddly creatures. Getting up close and personal with nature and wild life is amazing. I love going on these trips, and look forward to many more.