Paddle: Gamble Creek

Today we paddled with our friend Ken and his wife Barbara from Tampa. We put in on the Manatee River at Fort Hamer near Bradenton. The Manatee River is wide and tidal at that point. We paddled up the river against a gentle breeze under clear skies and bright sun. After less than a mile we turned north and paddled up Gamble Creek. Gamble Creek is wide at it's mouth, but narrowed as we paddled up the creek. We passed under Mulholland Road and proceeded about another mile before the creek became too tight and clogged to proceed. We then turned around and returned to the put-in at Fort Hamer. It was a very scenic creek and a very pleasant paddle. We saw some small gators, and we saw some big gators. We didn't see any manatees, however, although they may be present at times. I think the name "Manatee River" is more due to it's location in Manatee County, than because it is a destination for manatees.

Today was my birthday (yeah!) and is a fairly rare treat to be able to paddle on my birthday. What could be better? Actually I can't remember ever doing it before. I only wish I were feeling better. Dorcas and I are both coming off a cold. To boot, I have developed some sort of eye infection. I called my doctor and, based on my description of the symptoms, he thought it may be conjunctivitis (pink eye). He called in a prescription for some antibiotic eye drops which we picked up at the local Wal-Mart. If it doesn't improve in a few days, I'll find a local urgent care facility and get it looked at.

After paddling for two days straight we will probably take it easy for a few days and just recuperate and enjoy the pleasant weather. The forecast for the next several days is clear and sunny with highs in the low 80s and lows near 60.