S.C.U.B.A.

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"You mean I can be on the scuba squad?"

Josh is already certified, and pictures from the dive shops were all the convincing that I needed. Last week I completed the PADI certification and I am now a qualified recreational SCUBA diver!
There were only 4 people in my class and 2 instructors, so we got lots of attention. We learned the basic skills in the pool, then did 4 shore dives. I think I got hypothermia during the second day- it was really cold and we had stay still underwater while everyone else tested out - I didn't stop shivering until later that night. I ended up returning my overpriced snorkel and mask, but overall the class was a good experience.

The day after the course they offered a boat dive, so Josh and I headed out with about 15 other divers. We went down about 18m and saw some pretty cool stuff. The time went by so fast while we were under water. I got a touch of sea sickness during the boat ride (ok, full-on spewing - 3 times), but felt completely fine underwater because you're essentially weightless and don't notice the motion of the water.

Not sure if I'm reading for diving with the sharks, but can't wait to see more pretty fish and coral. There are heaps of good dive spots throughout the area, so hopefully we get a few more in. And of course, the Great Barrier Reef is on the list of things to do!
-d

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Photos

My first step
It's crazy how in a split second your surroundings completely change and you experience a whole new world

Universal sign for "ok"
Can also mean- wow! this is so amazing. I can't believe we're experiencing this in person!!!! and "yes, I'm breathing - let's keep diving!"

Whale sighting
There was a whale splashing around about 50m from our boat. It was so cool! We weren't quick enough with the camera, so all we got was the aftershot

nap time
This big blue fish was resting inside a little nook of a big rock ledge. It was completely still!

scuba gear
This is no time for packing lightly- the gear is quite heavy, but you don't notice it underwater.

Comments

[Amber]

awesome
Great pictures dear, thanks for sharing them!

[Heather]

Incredible!
I know the pictures don't do it justice at all! We are SO going to do a scuba vacation together. Oh, how I miss it! Keep enjoying it down under. You guys are so lucky!