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As a follow-up to yesterday's "Deadliest Catch" posting, I too, thought I'd take a little trip across the ocean in my post. Or should I say, a trip under the sea.

Recently, I've been going through some significant life changes the past three months. With the release of my book, GHOST HUNTRESS: THE AWAKENING, I, too, feel that I am going through an awakening of my own. As such, I've decided to do some things that I've always wanted to do, but somehow wasn't able to do for one reason or the other. I'm traveling more. I'm eating at restaurants I've always had a curiosity about. And...I'm pursuing adventures I've always dreamed of...starting last night.

I started SCUBA lessons!



Yes...you read that right! At 42 years young, I decided to take the plunge, literally! LOL!! I signed up for the class at the local YMCA (three blocks from my new apartment) and took my first dip in the pool last night. I have to say...it was exhilarating!



First off, did you know that SCUBA isn't a word like "scuba," rather, it's an acronym. Anyone know what it means? Well, I can tell you! It means self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. Pretty cool, eh?



Now, I don't intend to go into the massive fathoms of the deep, dark sea. Nor do I intend to go cave diving or slithering through ship wrecks. Ewww... The thought of that creeps me out to no end. However, a nice 50-70 foot decent into crystal clear waters to look at the corals, fishies and other sea life...wow...how peaceful, calm, and beautiful is that going to be?



Last night, we learned all about the mask, fins, weight belt, and snorkel. I've been snorkeling a few times, so I knew a lot of what he was talking about. But the terminology and theories behind everything is totally fascinating and there's a lot to learn. There's a lot more to the sport than just breathing underwater. There's physics and common sense, strength and endurance, a buddy-system and hand signals, paying attention, being alert, and most of all...having fun.



The funniest part of the class is my teacher (Rick) is this 63 year old guy who looks like he's about 38 and has been SCUBA diving longer than I've been alive. He talks like a drill instructor, tells us to "pay attention" and "look at him" and he could be Robert De Niro's twin brother! "Are you talking to me?" LOL!!



So there you have it...my first major adventure has begun. I have class twice a week over the next three weeks and then we go on four certification dives. I've already passed the preliminary test of treading water for ten minutes and doing six laps in the Olympic-sized pool. (There are seven people in the class and I was not last in the swimming exercise...thank heavens!!) I'll keep you posted on my progress...so wish me luck!



Have you ever had something you've longed to do, but haven't? What is it? What's kept you from doing it? Would you do it if you could? I'd love to hear all about it!

Hugs,
Marley = )