11.07.08

SCUBA

 I awoke at 8:00 a.m. and urged Jeff to call the dive shop and schedule the dive tour he wanted to do as we figured today would be our best chance of having the day to ourselves as there were still more people flying in for the wedding.  Jeff called the Dive shop and we were to be over there, a town away by 9:00.  We dressed more quickly than we ever thought possible, called for the car and flew to the dive shop.  While Jeff was filling out paperwork I went across the street and got Jeff breakfast from McDonalds :-P and myself some apple slices.  We did indeed make it, and were able to relax in the van which took us to the dive site.  It was a beautiful warm day.  

We climbed on board the boat and I completely relaxed while Tyler the dive instructor briefed everyone on safety and the two sites they were going to.  Jeff dove with a gentleman named Craig Fuji a photojournalist from LA who recently moved to Hawaii in pursuit of his passion...diving.  I enjoyed listening to his stories and had to laugh when reviewing his photos taken on the dive.  I mentioned that one of the photos was really good and he remarked that it wasn't well lit.  I told him that he could Photoshop it all the same.  He looked horrified ans said "I like them perfect in the camera:-)"  Gee, that never occurred to me, I guess that speaks of how far I have to go as a photographer.

I loved listening to Jeff exclaim his delight at seeing the Honu's. (Hawaiian for Sea Turtle)  Jeff took a few photos on the first dive, but left his camera on board during his second dive.  As Jeff surfaced we spotted a pod of dolphins.  LOVED this!  They are so beautiful and graceful!  I would have gotten in the water with them, just not he other nasty fish, eels, and heaven only knows what else!

I chatted with our captain while everyone was diving, and learned the basics of captaining a boat.  I will use this information hopefully in the future if Jeff and I ever decide to get our boat.

My personal highlight was on the return trip to the hotel, we were told where we might find sea turtles on the beach.  We did indeed! He was so cute and peaceful, and best of all they have volunteers that put up rope and ask onlookers to leave the turtles in peace.  By and large the requests are respected.  Sometimes you might see up to a dozen on a beach. What a wonderful relaxing day !