This year marks our second scalloping trip. We returned to Anclot River in Tarpon Springs, FL for 3 full days of boating, snorkeling, and what I would call mushroom hunting of the sea!

The rules for scalloping are simple, jump in water, and when you see a blue eyed little circle looking at you, grab it and throw it in your bag. You can keep a limit of up to 2 full buckets per boat per day.

We hit our limit each day leaving us with a year’s worth of bay scallops to enjoy.

This year, I perfected my shucking skills and honestly really enjoyed myself while doing it. There’s just something about a repeatable and mindless activity that allows me to shut-off that brings me so much peace. The 2 hours of shucking was probably the quietest and most focused I was the entire trip.

It’s funny because when you’re under water and snorkeling, it’s just you, the water, and your brain.

I always enjoy observing my thoughts in moments like these. It really allows me to measure how I handle pressure, success and stillness.

Pressure from not finding anything to success from suddenly swimming over two or three scallops at a time and stillness as you just allow the water to hold you up, hearing your breath under water.

I was surprised how little I had the natural inclination to talk to God while under water, although, I think there were a few moments where I heard the Holy Spirit directing me where to swim or look. Each time I listened to that voice, lo and behold there were a scallop or two!

All in all, it was a great trip. We were joined by a few close friends, and my son’s laughter was heard throughout the trip. Not sure if we’ll keep this tradition up but it was certainly worth it.

As I write this on our ride home, my only thought is “I’m ready to get back out on the water” 🌊✨

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