I purchased my first sew-on patch of a mama bear with cub and park name at Silver River St. Pk. We hiked daily the many trails offered carrying our dove stools to walk a bit and sit a bit to watch the woods come alive. While here we met our newfound Michigan friends from our Salt Springs camping for a canoe paddle up Silver River. We all met at a river wayside to launch our canoes as here in the park there is a 1.3 mile trek with your canoe on wheels before you can launch. NOPE they won't allow you to drive to the river's edge. Bummer. Once in the water we rafted to our friends canoe as Harry had a motor that made life easy as we motored against the 4.5 mph current. Along the way we saw a variety of birds, a couple alligators, lots of slidder turtles sunning on logs, Rhesus monkeys and last but not least the beautiful springs.
The water was so clear one could see the bottom at all times no matter the depth. The water's color went from blue to green. Fish everywhere. On our way back down the river we disconnected from our rafting buddies to float separately to enjoy the elements. Then there it was. The most awesome site for me. A mama alligator with a 12-14 inch baby on her head.Our best monkey photo shoot was on our way back. There were all sizes from young to elders. About 50-100 low in the trees and on the ground.
Then came the OOPS. We stopped halfway back at the campground canoe ramp to stretch our legs as this water canoe trek was about 5 miles one way. As we were launching our canoe back into the river, the stern hung on the rubber ramp mat as my hubby tried to push off and step in. Being in the narrow bow, the canoe got tippy and I went flippy out into the river. Oh well. I came up soaked to the skin laughing my head off. Instead of canoeing to the end of our trip, I chose to walk the 2 mile hike back to our campsite for a hot shower and dry clothes. Camera was in my vest pocket. OOPS! It got wet. We were able to salvage the photos you are viewing; but, did have to do an early morning Christmas Eve shop for a new camera. I now have a waterproof box to carry the camera as we board or exit the canoe so hopefully no more wet cameras.
Friday, December 25, Christmas Day, was full of fun and laugher along with a nice turkey dinner with friends. Three women cooks in the kitchen...that bird did not have a chance to go wrong.
