I think this is a great thread, and its not only fun, but useful, to reflect back on the start of our lives as divers. I was certified at the age of 47, book and pool in Colorado, open waters in Maui. I loved diving the minute I got in the pool. In fact even before. I bought a full set of equipment, including a Sherwood courier computer ( computers were just coming into broad use then). I think owning and being familiar with my own equipment, that fit me (prescription mask included) made me comfortable in a way I would not otherwise have been. I jumped in with both feet, as they say, and had no special problems. What I remember most was my third open water dive, day 2. About 10 minutes in I started "playing" - doing barrel rolls and headstands to look under ledges, copying the instructor, course director Bill Hannan. Diving suited me and I was suited to diving. Now, more than 500 dives and 12 years later, my only regret is not starting 30 years earlier!
DivemasterDennis