Hey! I did it! Got my PADI Open water certification. Here I am at Ginnie Springs, Florida. The water is FINE and its great weather, too!

Well, I had signed up to learn scuba diving from PADI Scuba Tiger. Got some initial gear (mask, snorkel, fins, etc). I had no problems with the classroom training, but as soon as I hit the pool, I failed miserably at swimming the 200yds, though made the 10 mnute float ok.

So off to the YMCA for some more swimming lessons and do some laps!

Well, a week after hurricane katrina, gas prices here in Jax have jumped to $3.09 avg and climbing. Stations that advertise $2.93 or less, are all out of regular.

I've noticed a marked decrease in traffic this saturday. But, I suspect its only temporary until folks adjust and get tired of staying home.

Went to LOR (Lord of the Rings) ELF convention in Orlando this weekend. Actually, Jan went to the convention while I wandered all around town. We did stay at the convention hotel, Wyndham Orlando Resort. Jan saw JOHN RHYS-DAVIES Gimli, and SEAN ASTIN Sam. I played at the Apple Store in the Millenia Mall.

We had a great trip to Seattle and Alaskan Cruise. Went on Princess Cruise Sapphire Princess out of Seattle, WA. Weather was excellent! Sunny and clear in Seattle. And smooth seas for the journey. Weather held for all of our excursions, including a seaplane flight and helicopter journey to Mendenhall Glacier. Here's a web site for photos.