Happy Birthday (times 92)

We've had another hatch. On the full moon this week (Tuesday) another loggerhead nest hatched. There were 88 hatchlings that made their way out on their own, plus 4 that were stuck in the nest, trapped under rocks & roots. These 4 were obviously exhausted, and not fit to set to sea upon excavation. After they were gently uncovered from their entrapments, they were taken up to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida. Just so happens on that same day, we went to tour the Turtle Hospital again. They offer tours daily, we've been through them too many times to count. Each time we go, something new is learned, and its truly a wonderful experience. There are some sad stories, but we remain focused on the good that is going on there, plus the miraculous impact they have on helping sea turtles survive.

If you go to their website (http://www.turtlehospital.org/), you can meet many of the residents through pictures and stories of their rescues. There is also a tank cam, where you can see turtles swimming through the salt water pool (I'm watching it as I type right now actually).

I realize I talk about turtles often on this blog, and in my life actually. The more I learn about them, the more I continue to be moved by their plight. Further, despite odds so incredibly stacked against them, they are the poster children for persistence and hope. They simply never give up. I think about them when I have my own challenges and difficulties to overcome, and am inspired.

The 4 hatchlings that were stuck under roots and large rocks are almost certain to do well at the hospital. After they have some free meals and naps as hospital patients, they'll be given a free boat ride (also courtesy of the hospital) to the saragassum weed line a few miles out. There they'll be released and wished well. Anyone associated with the Turtle Hospital is to be commended for their part in the process of helping save sea turtles. This also goes to all the donors who provide money, equipment and other support to the hospital. They cannot survive without the charity giving of those who care.

We've got another nest due to hatch, and I'm looking forward to the day when again we'll find hundreds of tiny tracks flowing out to sea. Stay tuned!