Kayaking in the enchanting mangrove tunnel.
Paddling through mangrove tunnels is like stepping outside of time. Stillness and quiet envelope this enchanting coastal forest. Upon closer inspection, a slight tidal current moves the clear water, and tiny fish dart through the tangle, hiding in the arching roots. This unique system offers essential protection, so young fish can hide and grow into large fish that populate the Gulf.
White egrets perch in the bushy mangrove trees eyeing the fish below. Word has it, this bird is the last to leave when a storm is coming, a behavior telling native peoples to head for higher ground.
On our recent paddle through the calm bay waters, weaving in and out of tunnels, in addition to birds and fish, we saw a dolphin jutting across the surface of the water. Later, we spotted a sea star, sea hares, moon jellies, and dozens of Cassiopeia jellyfish.
It’s no surprise I want to share the wonder of this amazing place in my books. In Beachside Bakery and Tea Leaves and the Texan you can go on virtual kayaking expeditions. But even in the Pine Crossing Cowboys series, I can’t resist sending those tough cowboys to the seaside to be wowed by the coastal ecosystem. “You’re in my stomping ground now, cowboy,” marine scientist, Ellie, says to Luke when they go out for a paddle. In addition to her beauty, she wows him with her knowledge and confidence, and another romance is born.