Location: Malolo, Fiji
Today I woke up rather early, still not adjusted to the time difference between Fiji and Missouri, so I was able to see a beautiful sunrise before I woke everyone up at 7. Emma was our Head Chef of the day and had 3 great meals for us. We had granola bowls for breakfast before our day started. There was then a lonnnnngggggg policy chat and a much-needed snack run before we got off the dock and finally into open water. We had chicken Caesar salads underway to the island we are anchored at now, Malolo. Now here is where the title comes in, guys. Our students on board who are going to be starting their dive certs were told they were going to the salon to watch PADI videos. That was apparently a prank. Sound the fire alarm, y’all. Everyone down below, which was most of the boat by the way, was starting to pass all the fire gear up the stairs to us on deck. Everyone was successfully on deck with all our gear and all the “fire hydrants” in just over 3 minutes. Charlie then taught us all how to set up, hold, and spray the fire hose. Finally though, we made it to anchor and, thank goodness, got to get in the ocean. I will just speak for us all and say it was amazing. We all completed our swim test and then took ocean showers. Now, without the pranking, the PADI dive videos began. Those already certified as advanced or above had some free time while we waited for dinner. Shane and Isaac were playing guitar on deck and singing while many conversations and new friendships grew around the deck. Dinner was delicious. It was a veggie chili with rice. We did our daily squeeze where everyone shared their biggest excitement, then everyone began to do their daily cleanup jobs, writing this blog being mine. Everyone’s names are slowly starting to sink in, and we are all getting to know each other. Keep following along for some exciting stories.
I love and miss you all back home. Don’t forget me after I become a pirate.