Wreckmania has arrived!.

[Walter]

Forget the last days, we're here. Texas Mike and Diving Gal pulled in last night. Net Doc and I arrived a couple of hours apart this afternoon. Natasha and Marci arrived this evening while the rest of us were at the beach snorkeling at night - lovely. Pete spotted a Purplemouth Moray - quite rare. We played with a Caribbean Reef Squid. A grand time was had by all. While awaiting the arrival of the rest of the group, we plan to sharpen our skills by diving tomorrow.

Everyone sends greetings.

[scuba-sass]

Can't wait to join you!!!!

Scuba-sass :-)

[Walter]

I'm looking forward to meeting you and I have Lydia's favorite song on tape.

[livestodive]

I knew we should have started a day earlier, hate it when we miss a chance to get wet. Just about to leave for the airport. We will see you all soon:)

Charlie and Pam

[Dee]

Ya'll have a blast! And don't forget us....we're eagerly awaiting those daily updates that Pete promised. ;)

[DennisW]

I've been jealously reading the posts and wishing I was there. I am definately having windrawal symptoms. I haven't been wet since the New Years Eve trip and I need to dive. I will be planning some diving within the next couple of months because if I don't, I'll go nuts.

[Walter]

I hope this works, I've never posted a photo on this board before. If it works, you'll see Pete on the stern during our return from this morning's dives.

There is good news and bad news.

The good news is the weather is great! Calm seas and sunshine. The bad news is water temps dropped 9 degrees in a week. We're sitting at 75 degrees at 60 ft. I'm told it's colder deeper.

Class starts in 2 hours.

[WreckWriter]

Originally posted by Walter
We're sitting at 75 degrees at 60 ft. I'm told it's colder deeper.

It was 81 at 180 last Sunday. Guess I best break out my hood....

[Spectre]

I was doing ok until you had to go and post a picture... now I'm jealous and envious!

Have a good time!

[Walter]

One more?

[Tavi]

Safe Trips,
Safe Dives,
and a
Great Time!!!

Looking forward to those updates!

[FLL Diver]

Originally posted by Walter
One more?

Hey - you got a picture of my house on the Intercoastal!

I was going to invite everyone over, but you know... ;) :rolleyes:

Have fun all! :D

[Dee]

Who are the others in that first picture? One sort of looks like Moo.

Thanks for keeping us in the loop....I'll be looking forward to ya'lls reports and pics.

[Walter]

First picture - L to R Net Doc (Pete), some guy who was on the boat and Brian our DM.

This picture is Scuba-sass (Susan) and Lydia learning how to use a reel.

[Walter]

Here's SunshineFish (Sandy) practicing with a reel.

[Walter]

Reel practice came after the boring lectures and immediately before practice in the pool on kicks. We all got to work on the frog kick and sculling. These kicks were new to some and old hat to others. Everyone improved as a direct result of watching MB demonstrate the "text book" frog kick and with practice.

Here's Lives to Dive (Charlie) and Pam working with their reel.

[Walter]

SWMN (Scott) aced the final.

[Walter]

Here's Herman hard at work.

Tomorrow, we start the wreck dives. I'll report late tomorrow night. Maybe Pete will post earlier.

[Walter]

Four dives down.

June & Mike have been taking underwater pics. Mine are all topside.

This morning, we dealt with a 2 knot current on the Ancient Mariner. Some divers wisely decided to abort their dives. A number of folks did make it down to work on skills.

Since the current at the other wreck was also screaming, we opted for a float dive on a reef for the second dive.

In the afternoon, the current had subsided a bit, so everyone was able to make two wreck dives. Current was stronger on the second afternoon dive than on the first, but still not as strong as the morning current.

Here's what a well dressed DM wears in SE Florida.

[Walter]

Herman & Kathy assisted Natasha with dinner.

[Walter]

Natasha preparing supper.

[Dee]

Looks like ya'll had the whole resort wrapped up!

[FLL Diver]

Here's what a well dressed DM wears in SE Florida. [/QUOTE]

Isn't that the DM from the Lady Go Diver out of the Cove Marina? A good ol' boy from Alabama?

[Walter]

L to R

1st row: Big O (Dave), Walter, Natasha
2nd row: Steve, Net Doc (Pete), KC Scubabunny(Heather), SuinshineFish (Sandy)
3rd row: SWMN (Scott), Diving Gal (June), Scuba Sass (Susan), Lydia
4th row: Pam, Texas Mike (Mike), Jeff
5th row: Lives to dive (Charlie), Bob, Herman, Kathy

[ckharlan66]

It looks like you all are having a great time. Tell Capt Rob and Brian I said hello and hopefully I will be back down to see them soon.

Chad

[Walter]

I must have made an error while trying to post that group shot.

[Natasha]

Hello Divers:
This group has been great. The best kids a Mom could ask for.
Last night we had chicken on the grill, along with, pasta salad from Canada, baked beans I made with bacon, potato salad, cole slaw, garlic bread, and key lime pie for dessert.
Seems it went OK since no one was sick this morning!
Tonight is Pork Chops with several sides.
Monday is a big farewell dinner. Everyone had their choice of salmon, T bones, and fillets. Thought you might like the food updates, along with the dive updates.
The ocean in front of the resort is so easy to get to. We played on the floats last night, and I'm on my way to a great sunburn.
Hope you're enjoying the updates!
:sunny:

[WreckWriter]

You guys are leaving already? I'm most sorry I was unable to get up to meet you but the past 2 weeks I've been most busy with my advanced trimix course.

You were right about the water temp. We froze in 210' yesterday and 260' today! BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR... 61 yesterday, not sure about today but cold!

Tom

[Dee]

Thanks for all the pictures and updates. But I'm waiting on the trip report that tells the skinny on what really happened during the last few days!

[Walter]

Here's the official Wreckmania DIR (Doin' It Redneck) lift bag.

[Walter]

Dive briefing.

[Walter]

Jeff about to enter on his 100th dive. The Captain Dan.

[Walter]

Sandy and Pete

[Walter]

Nitrox class

[Walter]

We have your lives in our hands (scarey ain't it?).

[NetDoc]

As most of you know Wreckmania has come and gone, and I must say, it did not live up to my expectations... nope... it didn't! You see, I thought we were larnin' HOW to create wrecks, doncha see? You know, where is the best place to plant the explosives, and just which plastic explosive is DIR approved (the one with the long fuse, I suppose). He finally splained to me that that was fully covered in Wreckmania II, sos I guess I'll have to come back next year!

Other than that, I have to also point out, that the volume of food was such that it made it hard to descend at times (I just kept floating) and it was sooooooo good, that I almost missed the boat, 'cause I just kept eatin' and eatin. Some of the restaurants in the area were kinda worried that Natasha and Marcie might be tryin' to horn in on their business!

Walter is real smart, but not near as smart as Brian the Dive master... he taught me where to buy Nitro-sorb for those really deep dives, and how to construct an ear-a-lizer for those quick descents. He even showed me the proper way to make my own DIR (Doin it Redneck) lift bag outa Publix plastic grocery bag. Don't use the Winn Dixie one, 'cause they use bungies.

The participants were funny too... they kept pullin tricks on me like tying me to the bow of the wreck and turnin' off my air. The real hoot was when the dumped all the chum over me and left me for the bull sharks. The trick was on them though, as I didn't teach em' no knot skills, and all they could tie was granny knots. Holdin' my breath wasn't so bad once I got used to not breathin'!

Well, I gots to get back to work now, so I'll talk back atcha later!

[jbd]

ya'll had a good time. Walter clued us about the two folks that were responsible for UW photos. When might those two individuals be posting some pics?

[socaldiver]

to all those who participated in the Wreckamania event and managing to survive.

I know there are/were quite a few of us non participants who are still somewhat envious, especially after the pics were posted by Walter.

Can't wait to read some of the dive reports and view the pics from the depths.

[landlocked]

Originally posted by Walter
First picture - L to R Net Doc (Pete), some guy who was on the boat and Brian our DM.

This picture is Scuba-sass (Susan) and Lydia learning how to use a reel. Hey! You could loan Pete the pic so that he will have something to put on his profile!

[livestodive]

We had a great time. The food was great, company even better. Although the current didn’t allow us to do each wreck dive, we were treated to some great drift dives.

This was the first time Pam and I dove a drift dive, she is hooked and I’m not sure if she will ever fin again.

The boat and crew were great. The only time the captain got nervous was when Pete and I had the boat listing by being on the same side.

I guess the toughest part was realizing that Pam and I will have to go back down and dive a couple more wrecks to get our certifications. It’s really tough knowing that we will have to go diving in Fl. again. hehehe

Another great part of wreckmania was meeting some very nice people. Hopefully we will be able to dive with them again.

Walter it was a great class, its nice to learn techniques from very experienced people.

MB thank you for helping with our kicks, hopefully with a little practice I will be known as Jeremiah (the bullfrog)

Joann it was nice to meet you, I don’t know how MB got so lucky

Natasha, and Marcy the food was great, event was well done kudos to you both.

Bob thanks for the loan of the tank, if you ever want to go diving where the lobsters can crack you as well as you can them, let me know and it is on.

Cathy and Herman if time ever allows we will get down and blow a few bubbles.

Steve we will keep in touch and let you know when we are going down to finish our dives, your company is definitely welcome.

Susan and Lydia (sp) we will dive together soon, pm me with a date and it is on.

Sandy, when you want to eat some of those lobsters I am game and it ain’t really that cold in Sept and Oct.

Mike was nice meeting you and diving with you, hopefully we can do it again.

Jeff when Heather isn’t in production mode we got to go diving.

Scott you can quit your day job, you are a natural with a barbie and meat, best steak I’ve had cooked in a long time.

Dave Semper Fi, need I say more.

June thank you for all the little things you did to make this more enjoyable, and you just have to post the pics of walters new scooters. I know all will enjoy them.

Pete a very big thanks to you for hauling all our tanks each day, and keeping the mood light and cheery a day without a laugh is just not a day.

BTW everyone careful of what you say around Sandy (Sunshine Fish), Heather (KC Scubabunny) Mike (Texas Mike) , and June (Diving Gal) they all have memories like steel spring straps.

Hope all had a nice trip home. Lets do this again

Charlie and Pam

[scuba-sass]

I have to 2nd everything Charlie (and Pam) said. These were some fabulous people to spend time with, both above and below the water.

Lydia and I were "newbies", having just certified in October, but we instantly felt at home, valued and welcomed by this wonderful bunch. Thanks to all for making this a spectacular trip!

I'm sure we'll all post trip reports when we've had time to catch our breath.

Charlie & Pam - did you make it home ahead of the storms yesterday? We ended up grounded in DC when we had to refuel after circling over Virginia. In the end, we were delayed about 4 hours, but made it home safely.

Take care Buddies,

Scuba-sass :-)

[Natasha]

Thank you so much for making Wreckmania a successful trip.
Many of you could have complained about several things, and didn't! I appreciate you all going with the flow and looking at the few dive challenges as a way of growing more in your diving experiences.
This group was a group of high achievers. I'm so glad I was able to spend quality time with all of youl.
A very special thanks to June for all the snacks she shleped down from Canada. Also thank you June for the lovely card you had everyone sign for Marci and I. We have kept it and will post parts of it on our web site and in our upcoming newsletter.
A special thanks to Kathy and Herman. We couldn't have done it without your help lighting the darn grill, and helping turn and keep a watch on the food.
A special thanks to Jeff who was always the first one to volunteer walking back and forth to take things out of the fridge and put them back in! It might sound little, but it was a job none the less that had to be done, and Jeff was always there and smiling.
And a final special thanks to Scott. He gave Marci and I a break on Monday. After we went to three stores to shop for the food, he cooked it all! Great job on the T bones, timed perfectly. My salmon was the best.

Heather:
What can I say? Your baby is going to have a great Mom.
Sandy:
I was more impressed with you, then you know. I will be talking to you about several private future endevors.
Pete:
You helped me sleep Sunday night. Thank you so much. ;)
Susan and Lydia:
Meeting you two made the trip for me. I hope you will be on future trips too.
Bob:
Can't wait to dive with you in Bonaire, in just 7 more weeks!
Charlie and Pam:
A great couple. Perfect together and no trouble at all.
Walter:
Our diving God. Need I say more?
And last but not least.. my sister Marci:
I think you know.. I couldn't have done it without you. Love you forever.

MOM

[Dee]

Uh Mom....Want to expand on Pete's nighty night techniques? :confused:

Glad everything worked out...I know how worried you were about the details. Sounds like you have a school of satisfied customers! :clap:

[Natasha]

Do I have to tell all my secrets?
Oh OK Dee for your eyes only. (yeah right)
Pete cracked my back for me Sunday night ,which took all pain away and made for a restful sleep. Only us old timers can understand that.
And Dee the rags were awesome. I have to tell you your name came up so many times. We said, " I wish Dee could have been here" .. "Dee missed a trip she should have been on" .."Hopefully Dee will be on future trips" all stuff like that.
I really missed you Dee. But we all understood.

[livestodive]

Sass we had about a 40 min delay, but all those planes behind us were delayed quite a bit.

I don't think Pam enjoyed the turbulent landing we had, it did get quite bouncy.

I am getting wet tomorrow, and hope to provide Pam with some nice table fare :)

[livestodive]

Thank you for the Dee rags. They did provide just enough protection to keep me from tearing skin on a good bump.

[KC_Scubabunny]

Howdy fellow weary travelers!

Jeff and I made it home about 6pm last night but our attention was diverted by our 4 legged kids who were anxious to have us home and a large brown expanse that we used to call a lawn but now is more like a brush fire hazard. No one around here wants to say the drought word but there was no rain the whole time we were gone!

Okay on to saying nice things about those that we met! The Wreckmaniacs are darn near a mutual admiration society at this point!

Natasha - Mom was a fitting title to for what you were. You fed us, made sure we were entertained and kept us out of trouble. Just one question, will you adopt me? I come with built in grandchild! Besides then I get Marci for my aunt!

Walter - Despite the fact that I didn't get to dive, I learned a lot about diving and you renewed my faith in dive professionals after a rocky last couple of experiences. MB was wonderful also and I will be frog kicking with increased skill when I next dive.

Pete - Glad we could share frustrated IT professional stories. I will be putting my favorite Dilberts in the mail to you in the next few days. May your networks always be stable and your customers have time to make tea.

Susan & Lydia - Your humor and spirits are a lesson to us all. I enjoyed our conversations at the pool and poolside. I hope we can share other travels and trips. I am working on filling in the rest of the frame to my puzzle since we know about that one nasty corner piece!

Sandy - Your energy and enthusiasm despite the challenging diving conditions were amazing. I hope a career opportunity comes to you that give you a chance to use those same gifts. Also a partner who makes you as happy as Jeff makes me and maybe change your mind about your destiny.

June - Your snacks and contributions to the trip were greatly appreciated. I still wish I could have see underwater twister!

Mike - Glad you were Jeff's and my scavenger hunt buddy. Your speedo put us over the finish line!

Herman - Thanks for taking such good care of Jeff underwater. He was worried about diving with a new buddy and you two were good match.

Kathy - Thanks for putting up with me while Jeff and Herman were off diving. I am going to miss breakfast at the pier now that I am back to eating a granola bar in my car.

Charlie & Pam - I hope Jeff and I are still diving after we have 25 years of marriage and three kids. It was wonderful to meet you.

Bob - Bubba couldn't have a nicer grandpa to buy him a diveskin when he is only 6 months old! Even if you are a Kevin Harvick fan! It was good to talk racing with you and machine shops with you.

Scott - The best salmon I have ever had on the BBQ and the most colorful speedos I have ever seen. What ever will you do to impress us for Wreckmania II

Dave "Big O" - I wish I could have joined you, Scott and Fish for a drink. It was the first time since I have been pregnant that I wanted to go to a bar and slam a few back. Do you have this effect on women often?

I hope everyone can come back next year to Wreckmania II and meet Kristine or Ethan. I will let you all know as soon as we do which it will be!

:bunny: Heather :bunny:

[Dee]

Originally posted by Natasha
Do I have to tell all my secrets?
Oh OK Dee for your eyes only. (yeah right)
Pete cracked my back for me Sunday night ,which took all pain away and made for a restful sleep. Only us old timers can understand that.
And Dee the rags were awesome. I have to tell you your name came up so many times. We said, " I wish Dee could have been here" .. "Dee missed a trip she should have been on" .."Hopefully Dee will be on future trips" all stuff like that.
I really missed you Dee. But we all understood.

Those youngsters just don't understand when we say a good back pop and foot rubs can be as good as sex! :eek: I'll keep the secret....we wouldn't want to ruin Pete's Romeo reputation. :out:

Gee...that's nice to hear. I sure wish I could have been there to meet everyone. Guess you'll just have to do this again next summer....hehehe.

[Dee]

Originally posted by livestodive
Thank you for the Dee rags. They did provide just enough protection to keep me from tearing skin on a good bump.

How did you do that? At least the Dee-Rags were good for something!

[SunshineFish]

Well, I am a zombie at work today having gotten home at 1 am last night. Long story short - my 3pm American flight was cancelled and I ended up on a 6pm Delta flight that did not take off until 9pm. Good news was that I was able to change my arrival airport to one 10 minutes from my house so mom picked me up by the time my luggage was on the carousel.

I will try to upload some of the digital pics as soon as I can get the darn camera plugged in and working again. I am really looking forward to developing my roll of film and posting the picture of Jeff in the pool demonstrating what it's like to hang on to the ascent/descent line for dear life.

I just want to say that I had a wonderful time meeting everyone and diving with most of you. I have never been with a group of such experienced divers - I've learned tons from everybody. We definately had a great group of Wreckmaniacs.

A special thank you to Natasha and Marci for their detailed planning and who held down the fort while we were away. Also to Walter, MB, and Pete for their disemmination of excellent diving advice.

Walter - you were a wonderful and patient instructor. Thanks for putting up with all my Nitrox questions and saving me from getting all tangled up in Pete's reel. Please also thank MB for me as well.

June - roomie and dive buddy extraordinaire who probably watches the food channel as much as I do, eh? I thought I was the only person who falls asleep to Iron Chef. Thanks for being a great friend and dive buddy (and keeping me in line and on time)!

Pete - Your PC made a great third roommate. Always kept to itself and never made a peep. Not even when we wanted it to. Thanks for keeping us in stiches with your stories.

Charlie & Pam - It was such a pleasure hanging with the two of you. I'm still laughing at how I followed you around thinking you were someone else. Taught me a lesson that I need to learn how to recognize my dive buddies more. :)

Sass & Lydia - I would love to dive you with you two one day in the Northeast if I can get the nerve to enter these cold waters of ours. Thanks for sharing Tahiti!

Herman & Kathy - I can't wait to experience the wonder that is Bonaire and swap stories with you. And thanks for the ride to the airport!

Heather & Jeff - I am putting down a $20 bet that your first child will be a boy named Ethan. Telebrain-waves told me so (also scored me 1/2 point on the quiz). Don't worry Heather, we will slam back a few nice cold yummy beers when you are off Doctor's orders. Have you done a bunny shot? Those are delish too! Jeff, I think I'd still be hanging/flailing on that line if you hadn't pulled me in. Thanks man.

Steve - we had some great conversations. hope to be able to dive with you one day.

Bob - So you will be in Bonaire too? Looking forward to meeting up and diving again. Would love to see a photo of Bubba in his new dive skin.

Mike - Thanks for your help with my Nitrox class. Hope to be able to visit Texas one day and dive with da Swampters.

Scott - Like everyone said, you grilled a mean barbie. How you managed to get all our requests right is truly amazing to someone like me who's managed to burn everything including water.

Big O - I'm going to have to practice my pyro skills so you won't laugh at me anymore. :)

Dee - I wish you and Beast coud've made it. Would have loved to meet you guys. But you were there in spirit! Mike did have the resort play the CD you sent - thank you.

Hopefully, I will be able to make Wreckmania II. I understand from Pete that that will involve explosives and creation of wrecks? :boom:

[C2CMarci]

Hi,

I just want to add that I really enjoyed meeting everyone. This was a really great group of very friendly and outgoing folks.

I don't think anyone will forget all the fun details that we learned about each other through the Survivor Game!

Thanks to ALL who helped with the meals in every way from cooking to carrying! (Scott, thanks, thanks, thanks..love those speedos too....)

Heather (Our Scavenger hunt winner, and very close runner up in Survivor) you are amazing and will be an great Mom...just call me Auntie!

Susan and Lydia, you too were really a lot of fun to meet and talk with, I miss you already. Maybe we can meet in NY for a shopping weekend sometime. How did you like Sawgrass Mills?

To my sister, Natasha, I am glad that I could help make this a successful trip for all the Wreckmaniacs!

SEA YA, Marci

[scuba-sass]

Marci -

All I can say is that it's a darn good thing we dawdled around the pool saying our goodbyes. If we had more time to shop, we would have needed another suitcase to carry stuff home!

Actually, at Sawgrass Mills, we only visited Ron Jon's Surf Shop, but they didn't have what we wanted. We were directed to "that dive shop down the road", which turned out to be none other than Diver's Direct. Wow! A Scuba-Toys-R-Us! That place is fabulous, and we really had to pry ourselves away.

Walter - BTW - how was your shopping excursion? Any Success?

Hugs to all,

Scuba-sass :-)

[Walter]

Just a few notes from my point of view.

We had strong currents through out the weekend. Monday were the worst of the lot. On three dives, we opted to make float dives on reefs rather than tie to wrecks. This was because it would not have been safe to dive at a fixed point in currents as strong as we encountered. We did make 5 wreck dives during the course of the trip and all of those were in strong currents.

I believe everyone participating is a better diver because they learned to handle strong currents and they learned it's OK to change plans when currents get too strong.

I'm particularly proud of the progress Pam made in her abilities and in her self confidence. She is a diver!

Wreckmaniac Natasha, thanks for putting this trip together and for being the driving force behind it.

Wreckmaniac Marci, I'm glad you came along to make it work. You are a joy.

Wreckmaniac June, it's always a joy to dive with you. The cards were an awesome idea. Thanks for saving my place.

Wreckmaniac Mike, I appreciate you coming forward to help with tanks and to lead dives. You definately made my job easier.

Wreckmaniac Dave, I do plan to see the Dr. Pepper machine ..... someday.

Wreckmaniac Scott, I'll find that wreck. I had fun looking for it. You have an excellent attitude toward learning. When things go wrong, you look at it as a learning experience. We can all learn from you.

Wreckmaniac Pam, I am proud of you! Listen to Charlie when he tells you how well you're doing. I've watched you grow as a diver in a sjort time. You have ability, use it.

Wreckmaniac Steve, it was good to have you along. Your calm manner and positive outlook was an asset to us all.

Wreckmaniac Lydia, I enjoyed getting to know you. I will find a copy of that movie for you. The concept of a package deal is exciting!

Wreckmaniac Sandy, You are a joy to be around. Come down to dive with us and Brian will soon have you tying off on the tec wrecks.

Wreckmaniac Bob, I'm looking forward to diving Bonaire with you. We'll finish on the Hooker.

Wreckmaniac Heather, I wish you'd been able to dive. I enjoyed your stories. It was great having you take pictures on the boat.

Wreckmaniac Kathy, thanks for pitching in to help with everything. I enjoyed your company.

Wreckmaniac Charlie, You breezed through all the skills. You made my job easy.

Wreckmaniac Jeff, staying calm in an emergency is a good trait to have. That yahoo probably doesn't realize you saved his life, but we all know you did.

Wreckmaniac Herman, like MB mentioned, you and Jeff used excellent rationale when deciding not to make the second dive on Sunday. A thinking diver is the safest diver.

Wreckmaniac Susan, I want you to know how much I appreciate what you said to me on Sunday evening after the nitrox exam. It was the highest of compliments. I'd be honored to dive with you any time. Yes, Jo and I found the perfect one - black with bamboo.

Wreckmaniac Jo, you were there when we needed you and you are appreciated. Thanks for everything.

Wreckmaniac Pete, as we spend more time together I learn even more how lucky I am to have you as a friend. You're the best.

Wreckmaniac MB, as always I continue to learn from you. Bring Rob (and Brian if you can) over and we'll hunt for fossils. Wreckmania would not have been possible without you.

Captain Rob, thanks for everything. I can't begin to post what you meant to the success of this trip.

Divemaster Brian, there is a group of Wreckmaniacs who are in awe of you. You are inspiring as well as funny.

The photo is of Jeff, Susan & Lydia demonstrating proper technique for holding on the line in current.

[Walter]

Moon over Deerfield.

[Walter]

Did Lydia enjoy this dive?

[Walter]

Redneck wetsuit.

[Walter]

Marci kicks back.

[Walter]

Steve & June

[Walter]

Herman, Bob & Scott

[Walter]

Pam - post dive.

[Walter]

Sandy is in awe of Brian

[Walter]

Sandy, Herman & Jeff

[Walter]

Bob

[Walter]

Dave & Mike

[Walter]

Heather

[Walter]

Steve

[Walter]

Don't take that picture!!!!

[Walter]

OK, I'll smile.

[Walter]

Jeff

[Walter]

June switching tanks.

[Walter]

Sandy

[Big O]

But, you will have that out of guys like me! I made a post at Diverlink about this trip, as I am still trying to figure out this board!

Ill try to post a cut and paste link!

Dave

[Big O]

http://diverlink.com/cgi-bin/anyboard.cgi/forum/?cmd=get&cG=131373239383&zu=313137323938&v=2&gV=0&p=

Hope that works!

Dave

[Big O]

Talk about changes in diving climates, I dove Sunday in Florida in say, 75 degree water, and I just booked a weekend in Barcelona NY to dive Lake Erie this weekend.

Bottom temps there will be 44 or 45 or so...

Off with the half Mil fullsuit with a single tank, and on with the drysuit and doubles....

Back to work.....

Dive Safe!

Dave

[Dee]

I especially love the yellow Playtex™ dive gloves that match his fins!

Thanks for all the topside pics.

[Dee]

I've read references to a scavenger hunt and a survival game. Would somebody tell those of us who weren't there all about those?

[herman]

Don't know what I can add to what has already been said. I don't think we could have wanted a better group of divers or for that matter people in general. The instructors and DMs were great, the boat and crew were outstanding, the food was good (even if Big O hates sushi)and the after dive company could not have been better.
The diving could have been better but at least I know what being a flag in a gale feels like, that current was ripping. No doubt, the experience made me a better diver....anybody for some white water river diving?
A special thanks to my dive buddy Jeff (aka Mr KC Scubabunny). On his 100th dive, he had to bring up a moron who had lost his buddy and ran low on air at 85 ft. He made us blow our planned 40 ft stop and made it very difficult to stop him at 15 ft, that was a long 3 minutes but we got him back to the boat in one piece. We opted to set out our next dive due to this joker, just to be on the safe side......he actually went back in with his same buddy(?). This guy was unbelievable. Bet Jeff will not forget his 100th dive soon, I won't.
Natasha, Marci thanks for all you did, you made the trip happen and kept it flowing.

If at all possible, Wreckmaina II will be on my calendar.

Dee, the scavenger hunt was like any other scavenger hunt, you had to find things on a list provided by Mom. Cards, dive related keychain, a dive picture, bubble bath were a few of the items I can remember off the top of my head.
The survival game consisted of Mom and Marci asking us questions about our fellow Wreckmanics that had been overheard during the trip. The winner was the one how got the most correct. What does the "O" in Big O stand for or how many kids does Livestodive have, that kind of thing. It was interesting to see how much we had learned about each other.

[Bob]

Hello All,
Glad to hear everyone is at home safe and sound, if not water logged. Just a note to let every one know what a great time I had. The diving was good and so were all the Wreckmaniacs.

Natasha and Marci, Thanks for a well planned trip. it was exactly as advertised. We couldn't have done without you two. Thanks for the nice Wreckmania T- shirt, I'll wear it proudly! Natasha, just one little question , Do you always answer the door in your pajamas? Just wondering. :tease:

Walter, I was impressed with your professionalism, your skill in the water, and your easy going manner. I to look forward to Bonaire and that dive on the Hilma Hooker!

DR. MB, What a great diver you are. Bryan told me I was lucky to survive three dives with you, he pointed out you didn't wear your examination gloves on either of the three. Wonder what he meant?

JoAnn, Are you really, really sure you want to marry the guy? :)

KC and Jeff, Heather doesn't forget ANYTHING. Please be careful around her, she doesn't forget. Let us know when baby Ethan or Kristine arrive! There's a guy in Florida that just might sent a diveskin... :crawl:

Sandy, Will see you in Bonaire. What a pleasant young lady you are. I will post a picture of Bubba in his diveskin.

Susan and Lydia, I enjoyed you both. Has that dam DC timed out yet?

Heman and Cathy, Nice meeting you both, I hope to cross paths with you again.

Charlie and Pam, Great couple. Pam you are my hero! You did good. Who's afraid of a little four knott current anyway?

Steve, Your story was stunning. I salute you.

Big O, Dave, hope to dive with you again. Semper Fi !

Scott, I promise to never lose tract of you again! Uh, you're not asleep are you?

To all the rest, let's do it again. :tree: Bob

[Natasha]

Bob:
Nope, you're the only one I opened the door to, with the Mickey Mouse PJ's on. Hope it didn't scare you off the Bonaire trip! hehehehe
Thanks to everyone for the kind words.
I have recieved numerous emails asking for a repeat performance.
So give 'em what they want..right?
Probably in a few months I'll post details on Wreckmania II and Wreckmania Continues.
But, if I was asking now .. who would want to go again, or go for the first time?

[Big O]

Wreckmania continues...... Bring on the Duane, Bring on the Bibb, Bring on the Speigel Grove.........

dave

[Natasha]

Dave:
You're first on my list. And I'm so sorry I forgot to say a few words to you a few posts up.
You were wonderful to have along. Very easy going. And everytime, I mean everytime I passed you, you stopped me and said, "Natasha I hope you will do Wreckmania Continues".
So especially for you Dave .. I'm doing it!
PS. And my hubby feels very left out, and demands we do it again too!

[Bob]

Natasha,
Just to make it official, count me in on the next one. I honestly enjoyed being around the Wreckmaniacs. What a nice group of people. I'm already looking forward to next year.

Charlie, I may take you up on the invite next summer. You can show me the tricks of the trade up there in the North Atlantic.
:tree: Bob :tribute:

[NetDoc]

With apologies to all those who love and sing "Oh Susanna"

It stormed so hard when we got in…
The seas were very flat!
The current was rippin’ ‘bout 40 knots,
Can you imagine that?

Walter scratched his head that day,
But couldn’t find no hair!
How we gonna dive them wrecks,
A lyin’ way down there!

Lady-Go-Diver,
O, where you off to now?
I’ll sail the seven seas with you
As I ride upon your bow!

Cap’n Rob’s a sailor man,
He knows just where to go,
And Brian is a great DM,
He ties us off below!

The Ancient Mariner was a twitchin’…
For she was a nervous wreck.
But everyone really liked…
Divin’ below her decks!

Lady-Go-Diver,
O, where you off to now?
I’ll sail the seven seas with you
As I ride upon your bow!

The Cap’n Dan was full of water,
I think she sprung a leak!
We dived down near a hunnert feet…
Just to take a peak!

The Qualman tugs and United Carribean,
Were some other sunken ships,
We did them and some reef dives too,
Yeah, we’re a bunch of dips!

Lady-Go-Diver,
O, where you off to now?
I’ll sail the seven seas with you
As I ride upon your bow!

[NetDoc]

Enjoy...

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=125715#post125715

[scuba-sass]

Pete, your musicality continues to astound me. I didn't think you could top the nose-flute rendition of Lydia's favorite song!

Natasha,

Are you kidding?!?

If you don't do WreckMania Continues next year, Lyd and I will be highly upset with you!

Hugs to all W-Maniacs,

Scuba-sass :-)

[ckharlan66]

Pending the announcements of dates count me in. I so wished I could have been there with you all and I will do my best to not miss another chance.

Chad

[herman]

If at all possible, we are in. The worst thing about these trips is that I keep getting more and more dear friends that I can't wait to see again. A problem I can live with. I miss the Maniacs already.

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by herman
If at all possible, we are in. The worst thing about these trips is that I keep getting more and more dear friends that I can't wait to see again. A problem I can live with. I miss the Maniacs already.

Couldn't have said it better. You and Kathy were a grand addition.

(PS my pics will be going to Dee tomorrow)

[HDrider]

Josh and I arrived home safe last evening after a great week of diving in South Florida.

I would like to thank everyone that was at the Wreck-mania dives on Lady Go Diver in South East Florida this past week! Josh and I enjoyed diving with the gang on Sunday afternoon, and I really enjoyed the dinner afterwards. It was truly a pleasure to meet everyone. Special thanks to Walter for letting me know what day fit in his class the best for a couple tagalongs and to Natasha for the wonderful dinner she had prepared Sunday evening. The rest of the gang it was a true joy to meet everyone I had a wonderful time. Perhaps there will be another time when we could meet again!

Thank you,

Tom

[KC_Scubabunny]

Jeff and I are in for Wreckmania 2003. I am especially excited if we can combine it with Photomania as I could use some professional help with my photo skills.

Besides did you think I was going to miss a single opportunity so show off my beautiful infant! I already said something to my dad about letting my sister come with us as our traveling babysitter. I don't know too many 13 year olds who would pass up a chance to hang out in Florida instead of Kansas during the summer!

Any chance of doing part of it as a Liveaboard? Just a suggestion!

:bunny: Heather :bunny:

[Natasha]

Sorry for the delay! I've been catching up and now finally have time to reply.
A live a board is an interesting idea. For now I feel I owe the Wreckmaniacs a trip equal to, or even better then, 02. So it will take sometime to work on all of it.
I should have prices posted by early 03.
We need to decide if you want a guest diver like Joel Silverstein or not for Wreckmania Continues. This will make the price somewhat higher. Anywhere from 150.00 to 200.00 a person more. The same if we have a guest for photomania.
Any thoughts on this?

[scuba-sass]

Hi Natasha,

As I see it, the only reason to pay extra for someone with a "name" is any benefit you can reap from their company. In WreckMania '02, that was the fabulous class and certification we had with Walter.

Personally, I'd love to take a PhotoMania class. Being new to this scuba thing :) I'm not familiar with what the other "names" could bring us. I do know that Walter is a excellant instructor, and would happily pay for additonal instruction from him, in any of his areas of scuba-expertise.

Just my $.02

Happy Diving,

Scuba-sass :-)

[KC_Scubabunny]

the big names don't mean that much to me! I have only an MX-10 and strobe and 8 rolls of film under my belt so almost any experienced underwater photographer who is patient and empathetic could be of huge benefit to me.

Someone who is a "certified instructor" is not the most important to me either. Someone like our own Dee would be expert enough for me and my level of equipment. I true "photography pro" would probably teach way over my head. Maybe by the time we get to Photomania III then we will be ready for the big time experts. I guess a lot of it depends on the audience you are attracting. More experienced photographers like Herman and June might benefit from advanced techniques. Maybe this is too much to ask but if there are enough of us, maybe a skill based class so the newbies work with other newbies and the advanced get the level they need also?

Am I being too much trouble, Mom?

:bunny: Heather :bunny:

[Natasha]

Yes! Go to your room!

[DivingGal]

Originally posted by KC_Scubabunny
... More experienced photographers like Herman and June might benefit from advanced techniques. Maybe this is too much to ask but if there are enough of us, maybe a skill based class so the newbies work with other newbies and the advanced get the level they need also?

Expert me? Ha ha. I'm still a beginner at taking u/w photos! (But thanks for the morale boost)

I still need a lot more skill to get to where I think I might even be considered an intermediate photographer. I still consider myself a newbie (that is getting lucky at some of her shots)

[NetDoc]

I vote for Dee... if she has the patience to take them thar pictures, then she has the patience to teach how... and she also has to put up with the Beast! Didn't they make a movie 'bout that??? "BeauDee and the Beast?"

[KC_Scubabunny]

Originally posted by DivingGal


Expert me? Ha ha. I'm still a beginner at taking u/w photos! (But thanks for the morale boost)

I still need a lot more skill to get to where I think I might even be considered an intermediate photographer. I still consider myself a newbie (that is getting lucky at some of her shots)

You could have fooled me! There is no way I could have gotten the shots you did with that current. I couldn't get those kind of shots on a calm day with 100 ft vis. I am giving myself some slack because I have only been on one trip and only shot 8 rolls of film but I still put many of you in categories far ahead of me.

Mom has sent me to my room so maybe I am grounded from further comment on the subject! Dee hasn't commented yet so maybe she hasn't heard about my drafting her! It was just a suggestion, no pressure on my part!

:bunny: Heather :bunny:

[Dee]

I'm far from an expert and not intimately familiar with that many cameras, but I could pass along a few things I've learned in the last 6 years. Photography basics and composition rather than camera specifics would work for everyone.

It's really not that hard, folks! Afterall...I can do it :eek:

[Natasha]

I'm a Mom that never let's the kids stay in their room too long. ( I miss them) So come on out, you're ungrounded!
Seems from the few of you that responded, that Walter and Dee are 'big names' enough for you. So I won't recruite Steven Frink or Joel for this next trip. (Makes my job a lot eaiser)
I'm planning on Wreckmanias to be next June if that will work for Walter and Dee. I will be offering a trip to Cozumel for July 03 and another trip for September 03, probably to Bonaire, so June works well for Wreckmania.
And it's only 10 months away! Probably June14th to the 21st and have both Wreeckmania II, "Continues" and Photomania all at the same Key Largo resort.
Cavernmania could be an idea ahead of it's time. Not sure yet. But I might end up doing it a different month in 03.
Sound good?

[DivingGal]

Why not start a separate thread for all the grand ideas for next year?

I wouldn't want anyone to miss out on some good times...

[Natasha]

Sure anyone can start it. I'd welcome all " grand" ides for next year. Do you have any?
Please feel free to start the thread!

[scuba-sass]

I started a new thread here (http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=128035#post128035)

Head on over and post your thoughts on 2003 'Mania Trips, or any of the other ideas our wonderful Natasha has put forth.

Happy Diving,

Scuba-sass :-)

[Walter]

This afternoon, I dived the Captain Dan and the Qualman tugs. Divemaster Brian asked if we were keeping in touch. He wants me to relay the message that he thinks about our group often and really enjoyed everyone. Captain Rob tells me he's only received two cards in the years he's run a dive boat and that the cards meant a great deal to him and to Brian. Rob printed out the pictures of Brian that we posted and presented then to Brian.

When I first saw Rob this afternoon, the first thing he wanted to talk about was the Wreckmania group. He loves you guys! Brian wasn't around at the time. Later, Brian approached me to talk about the really nice folks from the Wreckmania trip. You touched his heart.

I thought you should know that not only did the crew of the Lady Go Diver take good care of us, you did well by them. They are impressed by your abilities and your thoughtfulness. Frankly, so am I.

[ckharlan66]

Walter,

Those are a great couple of guys aren't they. I wish I could have made it down there to dive with the crew but I am going to try to make it there next time.

When I dove with them it was my first salt water dive. They went out of there way to make sure I was comfortable and they made the trip great for me. I can't wait to get back down there and do it agian.

Dive safe.

Chad

[DivingGal]

Walter once bubbled...
This afternoon, I dived the Captain Dan and the Qualman tugs. Divemaster Brian asked if we were keeping in touch. He wants me to relay the message that he thinks about our group often and really enjoyed everyone. Captain Rob tells me he's only received two cards in the years he's run a dive boat and that the cards meant a great deal to him and to Brian. Rob printed out the pictures of Brian that we posted and presented then to Brian.

I have a few more shots of Capt Rob and Brian... what's the best place to send them (via e-mail if possible)