This weekend we went to the Caribbean Festival which was held at one of my favorite places in Ocala – Silver Springs. It was a wonderful way to celebrate summer as the season is drawing to an end. I am really looking forward to the Autumn crisp air and rich earthy colors, but the brightness of summer is something I always enjoy, so it was a nice way to raise a glass to all things summer at its height.

As we entered the park we were greeted by Caribbean Music and the smells of Jerk Chicken and Conch Fritters. In order to fully get in the spirit of the Caribbean festivities mom and I decided to have a Rum Runner. Mine was made with Coconut Rum and Mom enjoyed Pineapple. Roberto decided to go for the yard of beer, as his favorite, Blue Moon was on tap.

Our thirst quenched, our stomachs began reacting to the wonderful smells so we all enjoyed some Conch fritters served with spicy Caribbean Rice and Sweet delicious plantains!
My Favorite!

Silver Springs is one of my favorite places in Ocala because it houses many species of animals. From Florida natives like Alligators, Crocs, snakes and Flamingos, to more far reaching species like Giraffes, Capybaras and Parrots.

The special thing about the animals at Silver Springs is that many of them are available to touch; something that I think is such an honor and privilege. I mean how often do you get to feed a giraffe and pet her? So every time I go there I make sure to visit all of my friends and this time was no exception. The exception was that this time I was able to hold a species that I am deathly afraid of.

Ever since moving to Florida I have been afraid of running into a gator. For this very reason, I am cautious of swimming in any fresh water, even if I see lots of other people splashing around. I am leery of golf courses and man made lakes as it is common to run into a resident gator. But yesterday, something special happened. I was able to hold a baby gator named Bob and feel the awesome pull of nature.

Granted, Bob was very a very docile specimen, he had his mouth taped, so no harm could come our way. But fears are irrational, and my fear of gators is not any different. That is why while I was holding Bob I knew I was experiencing a very special moment in my life. Not only was I facing one of my fears, but I was enjoying myself and allowing myself to go outside the box.

I am hoping that due to this experience I will continue to have a healthy fear of gators, but also instead of just feeling disgust and fear looking at them, I can also begin to appreciate their beauty strength and endurance.

Thanks, Bob.

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