What was amazing was how before I knew it I was down at 80 feet, enjoying the scenery, breathing comfortably, and being really, really, really proud of myself for not letting fear get the best of me. First thing in the morning, when I'd woken up, I was considering canceling the dive out of total paranoia. As we were driving to Kihei in the Maui morning darkness, "Spirit in the Sky" came on the radio and I honestly thought it was sign that something was going to go horribly wrong on the dive. I knew that was a crazy thought, but that's what partaking in adventure sports will do to an overthinker. Luckily, every other song on the radio was harmless -- that helped me chill. It also helped that I knew I was prepared, having reviewed my dive book meticulously the day before. I was diving with one of the best outfits in Maui. I had spent a few days in the water snorkeling, getting familiar with my gear again and just orienting myself. And really, who lets fear keep them from doing cool stuff? Not me!
(For the record, I wasn't crazy enough not to notice that "Spirit in the Sky" is a really cool song with awesomely simple-sounding composition and production. And it's by a guy named Norman Greenbaum. Good for Norman Greenbaum for not changing that name. And according to Wikipedia, he lives in Petaluma! Wikipedia sure is handy.)
The resort where we're staying, the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas, is a very family-friendly place -- there are children everywhere, so we haven't once felt like Alex was bothering anyone's quiet, contemplative moment. We did have the typical arrival snafu, when they tried to stick us in basically the worst room in the resort and then were largely impervious to any requests for legitimate customer service (more on that later -- Expedia is to blame as much as Westin and they'll both be hearing from us). But it's great having two rooms plus a kitchen and balcony (and washer/dryer!), and Alex loves the kiddie pool. Plus, the beach is steps away, with gentle, warm water and fantastic snorkeling. We've having a pretty great time.
Plus, did I mention I went scuba diving to 80 feet?