Manatee Viewing Center - Tampa

We are all settled into the Rainbow RV Resort in Frostproof, Florida.  The weather has been a bit cool but not like at home and there is NO SNOW.  This is the view from our picture window. That is the pond where Fred the alligator lives.  We still haven't seen him but we have seen pictures.  He does exist.

 Tom, John and Judy taking a break from all our hard work of being retired (or semi-retired in Tom's case)

Yesterday we headed into Tampa to check out the closest Costco to us.  Not nearly as convenient as at home but there is no shortage of places to shop near Frostproof.  After shopping we went to the Manatee Viewing Center at the Big Ben Power Station.

The power station takes the salt water to cool the plant.  This water is cleaned and warmed and pumped back into the bay.  When the Tampa Bay gets too cool the manatee move into the channel.  The manatee only thrive in warm water so this a refuge for them in the winter months.  There were sure lots of them for us to watch.

 Here is a mother and little one.

This big fellow was just resting in the shallows.  All the little fish were nibbling on his side cleaning off the dry shin I assume.

The sign says "if you love me, don't feed me or touch me"  That is for the manatee - not Tom.

I believe these are black fin sharks.  They looked to be about 3 feet long.  There was a large school of them.  This picture is for Cam (Taylor's boyfriend).  He would have fun with these big guys!!

Since we arrived we have been to the gym and the pool regularly.  Need to get back into shape after having a long break from the exercise routine since my surgery.  Feels good to be active again.  

Until next time - safe travels.