Giving Thanks.
This Fall has moved very fast and we have been super busy in Kings Bay. I almost forgot that the Holidays were approaching. Oops!
During our Summer we slow down, but when air temperatures start to cool we step into a timeless season. Our Manatees are here, and more are still to come. Our eelgrass has seeded, and soon it will disappear. The circle of Life is happening before our eyes!
From the beginning.
Since the Kings Bay Restoration Project began, Save Crystal River has made leaps and bounds. I can’t say enough about how thankful I am to see our Manatees eating eelgrass all year long, and how happy the “new arrival” Manatees look while they begin to feast. (They had Thanksgiving early!)
The process to restore the water quality has been a tremendous blessing for all the animals seeking refuge, and for those of us who work on the water. One of my favorite things about this County is that we can all come together to get important goals completed, especially if we stay determined. Our goals for this year during the project have been steadily on pace.
The past 4 years have been risky, sentimental, supportive, and boundless in efforts to clean our waters. Watching the waterways change before my eyes brings me hope. It has given me ambition that will carry on to my children and grandchildren. My generation and those before me have gradually changed the world, whether it is environmental, political, or social. I can only pray that the next generations will be able to continue protecting oceans, official waterways, and preserving the beauty we have in our springs. I am thankful that Save Crystal River staff members that have fought tooth and nail to get enough funds together to pilot a project some would have never dared. I think it was encouraging for the Manatee Eco Tourism Association to see all of the restoration take place, and in all honesty it has spread more optimism for the future of our Bay.
Needless to say, ’tis the season to be thankful and gratified.
Saying thanks!
When you sit down at the dinner table on Thanksgiving day, don’t just be thankful for family, food, and shelter from the cold. Be thankful for the trees that provide oxygen, the springs that hold our water, the limestone that supports infrastructure for Floridians, and the sunlight that allows so many earthly processes to prevail! It is important to remember that humans and environment need equilibrium, and fortunately Crystal River residents can attest that they are truly finding that balance restoring in Kings Bay. I know many stressful days are ahead for those who are getting ready for the holiday season, but don’t forget to go outside and take a long deep breath. AHHH, that’s better.
I wish you all a wonderful holiday season, and don’t forget to be thankful for your environment!
Photo Credit
Manatee Photo: Explorida
