Manatees & Rocket launches – FL bucket list!

We made reservations for the nature and ecological cruise on the beautiful and historic St. Johns River at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, FL. What was even more exciting was seeing this sign as we entered the park that morning! They count the Manatee every morning when they take shelter in the cooler spring water. We visited in February and the day was a little chilly – perfect for Manatee!

They counted less than 200 the day before.
They really do look like potatoes!
Look at them all just hanging out in the spring!
The water is gorgeous!
And so many fish.
We would recommend the river tour – so many birds and alligators, especially baby alligators!
I like this distance from the gators. There was one the guide did not stop near, he said she was a mama and they think she had recently killed another gator. Don’t mess with mama’s with babies!
They look like they’re smiling.
You see one bird and almost miss another one.
Lots of babies!
Lots of FL Ibis!
Nice big boardwalk at the park.
First time seeing a live armadillo – normally they are a casualty on the road!
Yes I love Manatee!
Another gorgeous FL sunset!

Our next stop in the Thousand Trails shuffle was Vero Beach. A little tight to get in but we made it work.

More bird watching from my office windows!
Loved being close enough to have lunch with Aunt Rose! 🙂
Beautiful Juno Beach, FL

And what do you do when you’re just an hour away from a rocket launch – of course you go! And stand on a bridge with hundreds of your friends!

Pictures don’t do it justice but it was really cool to be this close! And the sound – WOW!