Indian River Lagoon Joy for the Holidays

Fisherman in fog, Vero

This past week, Ed and I took “Finito” from Stuart to anchor-out in Melbourne in the Indian River Lagoon. From foggy to bright blue skies, to hundreds of diving sea birds and thousands of bobbing ducks, this area once plagued by some of the worst algae blooms and loss of wildlife appears to be recovering. But good days during winter are not enough and we did not see one manatee. There is a long way to go and all is contingent on the state really getting on top of water quality issues which I plan to write a lot more about next year.

Today, as we approach Christmas, I share to inspire joy. Ed and I are wishing everyone hope, peace, and joy for the holidays along the Indian River Lagoon and everywhere!

A misty morning in Vero
Beautiful sails approaching Jensen
Sunset with Luna, Melbourne
Approaching the beautiful waters of Ft. Pierce
Blue heron Crane Creek, Melbourne
Cobb’s General Store, since 188!, Ft. Pierce
Port of Ft. Pierce
Crane Creek old and new, Melbourne
“No pedestrians allowed?” Isn’t this a sidewalk?  Near Melbourne Harbour Marina
Sign on door read “No dogs allowed,” Luna seemed miffed!  Melbourne Harbor Marina 🙂
Cormorants on the Melbourne Causeway Bridge
Man fishing with wood storks nearby, Eau Gallie
Adorable ducks, Eau Gallie River
Strange looking drone in Eau Gallie River!
Sailboats south of Ft. Pierce
Pelicans fishing at sunset, Ft. Pierce

Funny little crab amongst thousands of minnows being chased by Lookdowns – a fish I’d never heard of.  Ft Pierce City Marina

Home of artist Bean Backus, Ave. C Ft. Pierce

Brightline is a new, colorful addition to in the area, and a controversial one too

Ed in front of Sunrise Theatre, Ft. Pierce
Beached sailboat mouth of Banana River and northern IRL
Banana River very interesting to finally see
Osprey nest, St. Lucie River
Going home. Melbourne to Stuart
There were thousands of bobbing little black and white ducks, Melbourne Causeway
The joy of a spectacular sunset, Melbourne, IRL

Luna goes for a ride!

Okee looks on wishing she were a dog

Bottlenosed dolphins were jumping on both sides of “Finito” south of Ft. Pierce! An incredible way to head home! I am sure they were saying: “Happy Holidays and thanks for protecting the IRL!”

 

22 thoughts on “Indian River Lagoon Joy for the Holidays

  1. Thank you for the good news and for keeping us informed through the year. Wishing you peace, joy and happiness for the holidays and the best for success in your efforts to protect our waterways in the year ahead.

  2. So glad you both are enjoying retirement. Keep sending all of your travel exploits and stay, healthy, happy and content…..a saying I use frequently with my photo group.

  3. It has been a pleasure to read all about your adventures over the past year. You and Ed are a fabulous couple in documenting all that you see on our waterways. Best for you both in the coming year!

  4. Thank you so much for sharing your adventure!! Brings back such great memories of our boat rides to Daytona and back!! Theresa Krueger Woleslagle

  5. Wonderful to “travel” with you both up and down the lagoon. Looking forward to your observations n 2025. Enjoy the holidays!

  6. Loved each and every one! Great to see the Banana River demystified! All good and not without a fair amount of sentimentality for the boating life. Pets along so dear! Thanks for sharing your holiday adventure!

  7. Beautiful trip Jacquie and Ed…Marry Christmas and a VERY Happy New Year 2024. Want some Christmas Egg Nog for your party?

  8. Beautiful trip Jacquie and. Ed.. Merry Christmas and a VERY Happy New Year 2024…. Need some Christmas Egg Nog for your party???

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