King's Bay, Crystal River

 With the temperature at 44 this morning it was perfect for swimming with the manatees.  The colder the better since they hang out near the springs in King's Bay where the water temp remains at 72 degrees constantly.  Thankfully wet suits are provided and though chilly, the ride on the lake was okay.  Getting into the water however - a different story.  72 doesn't feel warm.  Moving around to warm up was not an option since loud noises and splashing are not tolerated by the manatees.  Doing the doggie paddle over to where the mammals were resting was a bit challenging especially with a pool noodle to help our lower half stay near the surface of the water and away from the animals.  Once we arrived in their little corner of the bay - I was no longer cold.  Watching these giant, slow moving, gentle creatures is amazing.  They have no aggressive traits and just float through life.

Interesting facts - they only have 5-7% body fat which is why they need to be in warm waters.  Most of their width is the 150 feet of digestive tract.  Who knew?

                                                            This guy actually bumped into me

                                                             from behind and startled me.

                                    Even the baby of the bunch was quite large and intimidating.  

Needless to say the experience was well worth any discomfort endured from the cold.

After warming up we checked out a few antique stores.  I continue to find it amazing the strange items that have been created and someone purchased at one time.

And the courthouse in downtown Inverness.  It has been restored to a museum with Florida and Citrus County history.  The upstairs courtroom was the set for Elvis' movie Follow That Dream in 1962.  

We definitely got our money's worth here (free!).