The local Manatee sanctuaries open as scheduled on November 15th. In an rare turn of events, substantial groups of Manatee also swim gently to the springs on that day. Lots of folks claim credit for that happy coincidence, but unfortunately the cause of this unusually serendipitous start to the season is the cooler temps that drive the animals toward warmer water.
Facing a paddling day on the water with temps starting the the 50s, I attempt to create a fashion statement that combines both marine elegance and warmth. Judging from Sandy’s hysterical laughter when I meet her at the kayak dock, I may have missed the target on the elegant aspect of my ensemble. At least I had that whole “layer” thing going for me!
Becoming One with the Manatee
Sunday morning, I become even more in tune with the Manatee when both my water heaters stop working in the RV. Apparently I have a leak in the system that prevents the electric elements and the diesel burners from operating. At least that is my take on it based on the expanding pool of water underneath the heater bay outside. Unaware of my plight at first, I jump into the shower to begin my day. The icy slivers of water that slash my skin before I can interrupt the flow almost stop my heart. Now I understand why the Manatee have to get to the tepid springs when the Gulf waters go below 68 degrees.
Paul at RV Systems can’t get me on his schedule for a repair until next week. In the meantime he suggests that I run the coach engine for 30 minutes before I require hot water. This will allow the engine to warm up the water through the Hydrohot plumbing. Unfortunately the temperature change that results from this effort is merely “less cold” not actually warm. I am due to work the boardwalk at Three Sisters Spring again on Wednesday. I wonder if the Manatee would mind if I joined them for a bath in their 74 degree water? You think they would be upset if I brought my bubble bath?
An Opening Day Video
I am yelling Manatee at the video!! Thar outfit crossed all barriers of fashion. Any hot water yet?
Glad you liked it! No hot water until next Tuesday. Between the paddling exercise and the cold showers I feel like I am in boot camp 🙂 Lord, I hope I am buff and tuff when I leave here!!
Looking forward to getting there! Glad you had a photo of what you wear while kayaking, I was wondering how to dress. Mine might be a hodgepodge of layers too!
I think my outfit was maybe more in the line of what not to wear unless you are going for the big laugh!! A fashion icon I am not 🙂
Sure does look peaceful there. Thanks for sharing, and I hope the grounds have hot showers in their bath house that you can take advantage of. Take care. GOD BLESS
JD/SD
Jim & Sandy
It is so very peaceful here – very soothing usually 🙂 Hope you guys have a Happy Thanksgiving!
I recall scuba diving with the manatees back in 1991, how on earth could it have been 28 years ago, just like it was last Tuesday. They are truly God’s creatures, here to teach us peace and tranquility. Please tell them Bob says “Hello.”
N. Clement Weathers
You are so right about them teaching us tranquility. I spend a good part of my day encouraging people to act like the manatees – relax, float and be peaceful!
I’m amazed that the manatees didn’t head right back to the gulf once they got a load of your outfit 🙂
Yes – that seems to be the consensus here too. Fortunately, they returned once I left the area!
Hello from Seaford…
Sorry to hear about your RV troubles…
I was just thinking about you, hoping you can have peace of mind during the holidays knowing that people have you in their thoughts and prayers.
Marcia
Thanks for your kind words, Marcia. I am sure that like everything else my RV troubles will pass eventually. In the meantime, I truly appreciate all the warm thoughts and want you to know that I am directing those same prayers back to you. Hope your holidays are filled with love and kindness!