1 minute read
A Good Thing
Central Florida is Just Too Much!
By Eryn Reddell Wingert
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(and that’s a good thing)
You may have heard the complimentary term, “Oh, you’re just too much!” It’s a phrase used when someone goes above and beyond, or does/ gives more than expected. Well, that in a nutshell is Central Florida. Florida immediately sparks images of sun-filled days, white sandy beaches, juicy oranges, and maybe even thoughts of meandering manatees, lush mangroves, and alligators around every corner. All true - well, there aren’t alligators around every corner - but when it comes to interesting sites, beautiful scenery, and friendly people - Central Florida has it all, and then some. Take the St. Johns River, for example. A leisurely boat tour along a stretch of Florida’s longest river - over 300 miles - and you will inevitably spot a multitude of birds, like bald eagles, egrets, and herons. Not to mention reptiles such as sunbathing turtles, and alligators eyeballing you right back. During manatee season, November through April, you will most likely see serene portly manatees relaxing just beneath the surface. (Tip: The best way to spot a manatee, look for bubbles from their gas emissions. No, seriously.) There’s so much to see and do in Central Florida, it can be overwhelming. But, when in doubt, ask a local. For example, your friendly roadside fruit stand vendor who excitedly offers up the idea of bioluminescent kayaking out of Titusville and the sweet local gentleman who didn’t hesitate to share his favorite nature parks and restaurants. One stop can help map out a whole day! Central Florida is all just too much… of a really, really good thing. A surfer calls it a day at famed surfing hotspot, Cocoa Beach. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)
Lily pads serenely float along the banks of Lake Lotus at the Audubon Birds of Prey Center in Maitland. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)
A snowy egret hunts the shallows of St Johns River at Blue Springs State Park. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)
Sponges galore! A haul of sponges are displayed at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)
