Experience #21
Theme: water/ scuba diving

Woohoo! What a thrill! Simon and I have been snorkeling for many years and thought about scuba diving but never took the time to learn. So as part of the 50 new experiences-why not?

Kellen was an enthusiastic instructor, and very good communicator under water. He maintained his cool and had patience with us as we fumbled through the "firsts" of this course.

For those who haven't done it and are apprehensive, the course is gradual and brings you confidence as you succeed with the required skills in progression from simple to more complex. First thing-put gear on at the pool's shallow end and bend over to take your first breath under water. No problem. Now kneel down in the shallow end and breathe. Fill your mask half way with water and clear it. Into the deep end we go! We spent 2- two hour sessions at the pool getting acquainted with the equipment and performing various drills. Saturday, we did 2 open water dives repeating all the same skills in the cold ocean, wearing a full wetsuit. Some moments of nervousness were experienced by all, but we all managed well. Sunday, we did 2 more dives to deeper levels and stayed longer underwater.

Some of you would be amazed at the wild life we have on our coast line. The water is cold but the wetsuit holds your body heat quite well. There's a lot of gear to don. Simon and I had about 65lbs of gear on. I found walking and stepping up onto the break-water quite challenging, but Simon and Kellen were gentlemen and helped me out.

Lessons learnt with this new skill-stay calm. Take the few seconds to get your bearings and choose the right course of actions. Ask your buddy for help if needed. Oh and don't forget to breathe!