I walked around downtown for a little while then headed to the Marina. It was a quiet day with just a few fisherman around. I was standing on the pier enjoying the breeze and watching the gentle waves, when I heard the distinct sound of a Manatee coming up for water! I have never seen or heard a Manatee before but I immediately knew what it was. I was ecstatic! I have really been looking forward to seeing a Manatee and my excitement must have shown because one of the fisherman came over and gave me a quick “lesson”. He explained that they frequent this area because there is a fresh water spring. Then, he pointed out that we were actually watching a mama and her cub, identifying each of them as they came to the surface. I couldn’t believe it! My first time to see a Manatee and I was seeing a mother (below, top) with her baby (below, bottom)!
What an amazing experience! I ended up standing there for over an hour just watching the Manatees swim. As you can see from the photos, it is difficult to see their full bodies in the dark water but every once in a while they glide along the surface or kick their tail up above water. It is incredible! The time flew by as I stood there, hoping to get one more glimpse (and to get more photos). They are truly beautiful creatures. I never imagined they would be so graceful! What a gift to just be able to enjoy the peace and quiet while admiring this mother and cub! This is definitely one of those moments where I realize what a gift life is and how much I have been missing!
As I started to walk away from the marina, I was still feeling a little light. This is a new feeling for me as I have always been a very grounded person. It has happened a few times recently, usually brought on by something simple that brings me joy or excitement. The best way I can describe it is that it feels like your body is smiling. Needless to say, I wanted to keep the feeling going! So, I checked my list and saw that one of the companies offering Paddleboard Lessons is located at Philippe Park near Safety Harbor. (Paddleboard lessons are one of the things at the top of my list!) I decided to go check out the Park so I would know how to find it when I scheduled my SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) lesson.
It was AMAZING! Seriously, I have never been to a city park this beautiful! It was like an enchanted forest!
After driving through the park, I knew I had to bring the dogs here! I headed home to get them! It may seem silly to go all the way back home just to get the dogs. However, I have found that watching my pups’ excitement and enjoyment makes places like this even more memorable. Plus, their curiosity often leads me to see beauty that I may otherwise have missed.
As I returned with my two companions, it occurred to me just how much I am really changing. A few months ago, I would have called it a day and headed home after driving through the park, . I was always too busy with work to spend an afternoon leisurely walking around, especially after being “unproductive” all morning! No wonder I was so unhappy! How could I pass up such an opportunity to enjoy nature and admire the beauty!
As you can see, the dogs enjoyed exploring as much I did! I can’t get over how small they look next to these huge trees!
We ended up spending the whole afternoon walking along the water’s edge and all through the park. It is such a beautiful place, it feels magical! I couldn’t help but feel spiritual in this park. As I admired all the beauty, I took a moment to think about all the life around me. The trees, plants, lizards, fish . . . . I have really been missing out on life! Not just my own life, but the life all around me! I really feel grateful to be enjoying it now and just becoming lost in life!
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