Jewels of the Ocala Between Daytona on the East coast and Ocala in Florida’s midsection lie the jewels of the Ocala National Forest – springs, warm springs that flow out of the earth at 72 degrees Fahrenheit. When you are lucky, like I was today, the air temperature is 85 degrees, making it almost perfect for snorkeling in the springs. Last year I tried one of the 4 jewels, Alexander Springs; this year I was determined to try the others, Being a southern girl, I like warm water for swimming, so even water temps of 72 degrees is not warm enough. I learned that last year when it took me 45 minutes to ease myself into the spring. That year, my note-to-self was: “remember your mask and snorkel next time.” This year, not only did I
... read more