Log of the ELISSA II: Kings Bay, Crystal River

4/23/13 Kings Bay, Crystal River

Celebrated our Lay Day with a Brunch of OJ Falzareno’s Hoeffle Poeffle (eggs, bacon, potatoes, cheese). This followed our boat cleaning---wonderful being in fresh water, probably the last until we get to the Potomac in the summer/fall. Beautiful sunny day with light breeze to dry out all that needed drying. We then donned our bathing suits and went about inflating the kayaks. I have perfected my kayak boarding system—and remember it—so was in a great position to observe Bill who had forgotten his system and did the usual fall in the water with the first attempt! At least the water was mid-70’s-warmer than Lake Leelanau in the average summer! In getting back on board the Elissa II-had omitted lowering the boarding ladder which was blocked by the dinghy- he pretty much spent his “energy wad” and chose to follow me in the dinghy to the Three Sisters springs. Kayaked by beautiful homes on a series of canals, saw no manatees but was not swimming/snorkeling which I now surmise is the best way to see them. At least that is what all the commercial tours were doing. Once out of my kayak, it would be a long swim back to the boat so I remained afloat. The springs are the beautiful crystal clear ones I have enjoyed in the past when visiting my Mother years ago. The canopy of trees covering the creek-like entrance to the springs gave a Cathedral impression and all of us slowly maneuvering through the water were reverently quiet. Bill chauffeured me behind the dinghy to other springs and islands in futile attempts for manatee watching. But, no complaints, was a lovely day.

Dinner: Beef tenderloin strips with onion and Tuscan seasonings, sautéed herbed potatoes, asparagus sautéed with onion, garlic, tomatoes and feta.

Three Sister's Spring