View Full Version : My Diving Experiences
What a wonderful discovery! Hope it all pans out!
From today at Pearl Lake on the IL/WI border.
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Very cool, Tradd. That just looks like SO much stuff you have to swim/dive with.
Very cool, Tradd. That just looks like SO much stuff you have to swim/dive with.
Haha. You’re not kidding. :D
Neat photo. So glad that you are taking us along with you.
Buddy and I yesterday. I was leaning to get into the picture. At my instructor’s suggestion, I sent the photo off to the drysuit manufacturer in San Diego. We’re very colorful underwater. :D
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Buddy and I yesterday. I was leaning to get into the picture. At my instructor’s suggestion, I sent the photo off to the drysuit manufacturer in San Diego. We’re very colorful underwater. :D
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Nice "photo bomb" - LOL. And, yes! Very colorful!
iris lilies
8-8-21, 5:49pm
DoesThat thing really keep you dry
DoesThat thing really keep you dry
Yes, it does. As long as I lock my dry gloves on all the way, make sure the zipper is closed, and neck/wrist seals are not rolled or wrinkled. It’s a very good suit. Cadillac of US made suits. DUI has been doing drysuits for a long time in San Diego. The seals are sewn and then sealed with multiple layers of a hand applied glue/sealer. Cheaper suits just have taped seams. The seams on my suit model are warrantied for 7 years.
I take very good care of it. When I get home, it gets washed down as needed (boots, any stains, etc.) and I make sure the purple flames overlay is clean. Sometimes you get stuff on your suit when taking it off. Some of the overlay is light colored so I will scrub at any dirt with straight blue Dawn on a damp rag and that works very well.
I paid $4100 for the suit so I’m going to baby it.
iris lilies
8-8-21, 6:04pm
That is nice gear!
That is nice gear!
With the amount of diving I do and in the conditions I do it in, you need to have good gear.
I'm really bummed - My diving instructor can't give me any idea at all when we might be able to schedule future needed class days due to an elderly relative’s health. I'm sorry about the relative, but I just feel like I'm in limbo. :( Very sad. I just want to get this done. I guess extra time for practice.
I'm really bummed - My diving instructor can't give me any idea at all when we might be able to schedule future needed class days due to an elderly relative’s health. I'm sorry about the relative, but I just feel like I'm in limbo. :( Very sad. I just want to get this done. I guess extra time for practice.
While I understand your wish to get classes over with, could it be an opportunity to explore other sites to dive now that you can solo dive? Could you mentor a newbie to remember the fun, fear and excitement of when you started?
My regular buddy is a newer diver I’m mentoring. My local diving hole is the only one around that allows solo that’s close.
You are a remarkable individual and having such fun in a unique sport. Lucky you!
Work is now grumbling about me wanting to take 7 days off at the holidays to even go fun diving in FL cave country.
And since I will mostly likely NOT have the current class finished, that means I won’t be able to take full cave. Current class is a prerequisite for full cave. Going to FL at a different time wouldn’t work as there will be no one to dive with. Lots of people down there at the holidays.
I wouldn’t have a chance to get to FL at the holidays for two years due to having to take turns with coworker even though he won’t be traveling at holidays.
That is disappointing in so many ways including scheduling which I didn't realize.
Disappointing? It’s extremely discouraging. It would be so easy to just quit and sell my gear. I could probably sell most of it very easily.
But can’t let the people who would prefer I fail have the last word.
happystuff
8-16-21, 6:21pm
I'm sorry, Tradd. Maybe a chat with the coworker??
Tradd, I had a boss one time who grumbled about a 4 week trip I wanted to take to India. Got free airline tickets and wanted to make the most of the time. Well, I felt good enough to tell him it was now or later. He did not believe anyone needed more than a 2 week vacation. I had the time off saved up and used it in one chunk. The next year he took a nice long vacation of more than 2 weeks. It was a transformative trip.
I always asked what they would have to do if I got hit by a bus. Vacations are necessary for mental health. I stand behind your plans. Employers have to expect 1-2 week vacations. Maybe they are just grumbling because you are single and they think the time should be available for people with kids? Otherwise, if you earn the time and give the appropriate notice, you should take your time off.
Tradd, I had a boss one time who grumbled about a 4 week trip I wanted to take to India. Got free airline tickets and wanted to make the most of the time. Well, I felt good enough to tell him it was now or later. He did not believe anyone needed more than a 2 week vacation. I had the time off saved up and used it in one chunk. The next year he took a nice long vacation of more than 2 weeks. It was a transformative trip.
I always asked what they would have to do if I got hit by a bus. Vacations are necessary for mental health. I stand behind your plans. Employers have to expect 1-2 week vacations. Maybe they are just grumbling because you are single and they think the time should be available for people with kids? Otherwise, if you earn the time and give the appropriate notice, you should take your time off.
The coworker I share the customs workload with is married with NO kids. I talked to him before I submitted my request. He often travels at the holidays, but his wife has a new job and won't have the time off. He was off for 6 days a couple of weeks ago, plus he also had long weekends around Memorial Day and the 4th. Any time I've needed off for a doctor appt or something like that, I've made the time up that week. I've been saving my time off for this trip. I gave about 4.5 months notice. The only person directly affected by me being off would be the customs coworker.
Im cooling off for several days before I address this. I was already pretty raw from the thing with my class, so I would have probably said something not nice if I hadn't bit my tongue.
Teacher Terry
8-16-21, 7:47pm
Good idea to cool down before discussing with your boss. Don’t you dare give up something you are good at and love!! Life has to have something to look forward to. Really hoping it works out for you.
Talked to boss today. She is Indian and a friend who is half Indian told me they love to negotiate. I told boss I've been taking on additional work when asked, always willing to help, etc. I told her I wanted to take my days the dates I had indicated. She seemed more positive. We'll see.
happystuff
8-17-21, 7:36pm
Nice approach, Tradd. Good luck!!!
Teacher Terry
8-18-21, 3:03pm
Awesome!!
Glad to hear it all worked out for the vacation.
Any Indian who goes back to the mother country for family events, like weddings, does not stay only one week.
happystuff
8-18-21, 5:44pm
Congrats!!! Glad it worked out.
A online friend I chat a lot with has offered me his guest room for my trip. It was actually offered months ago when I mentioned I wanted to get down to cave country sometime.
Will be diving this cave in FL. Low flow and good beginner cave
https://youtu.be/Y9lo-VWlfwg
What an adventure that will be!
Wow! Very cool! And the video seems like it might be really helpful to orient you to it before you actually enter it.
Wow! Very cool! And the video seems like it might be really helpful to orient you to it before you actually enter it.
Yes! I was going through YT videos last night.
frugal-one
8-19-21, 2:57pm
A online friend I chat a lot with has offered me his guest room for my trip. It was actually offered months ago when I mentioned I wanted to get down to cave country sometime.
Have you met him IRL?
iris lilies
8-19-21, 3:31pm
I like those caves, big openings.
rosarugosa
8-19-21, 5:27pm
Have you met him IRL?
Yes, this kind of concerned me a little bit too.
Have you met him IRL?
Yes, for lunch when he was up here diving earlier this summer.
As long as you have met him. There are definitely online friends here I'd be happy to visit in person.
I like those caves, big openings.
@iris lilies
Did you actually said something POSITIVE about cave diving? Have you lost your ever loving mind?! :O
iris lilies
8-19-21, 6:39pm
@iris lilies
Did you actually said something POSITIVE about cave diving? Have you lost your ever loving mind?! :O
I was able to open the video and watch a few seconds here and there. As long as I see big openings in the caves it’s not horrifically scary. It certainly is pretty and very interesting. It was hard, but I did it!
happystuff
8-19-21, 8:18pm
Very cool video! Thanks for sharing! Looks like you are going to have a great time!
Rejoined the gym yesterday. Back in the pool snorkeling laps. Did 600 yards/24 lengths. Used to do a mile/70 lengths. I’ll be back to that very shortly. I couldn’t find my kickboard so I had to do without yesterday. Ordered a new one. Much better with kickboard.
Diving instructor mentioned that for full cave class, dives are upwards of 90 minutes. So building regular and diving stamina. I’m going to be doing longer dives between now and the end of October when the local quarry closes. Mine diving season starts in early November. So I’ve got two months. She said she thought I could do the class, but wants me to be successful and won’t allow me to start the class until I am ready. We agreed we’d revisit this in two months.
I’m going to be diving my brains out. Will dive both weekend days.
Being in good shape for this much diving is so important. Good for you joining a gym.
Thanks, razz. I was in better shape before the stupid plague closed the gyms down spring 2020.
ApatheticNoMore
8-31-21, 2:10pm
They were closed for awhile, open for a long time too, but regardless it was a year of covid and I stayed away, and I didn't go until two weeks past my FIRST covid vaccine shot, then it was the first thing I got back too, unable to wait anymore. But yea it sucked in terms of staying in shape.
Got my kick board from Amazon today. Did 1000 yards/0.6 miles. So a bit more than the mile I used to do. Did about 1/3 of my diving frog kick, which is really good practice, as it has to get better.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcbHKAWIk3I
Is this what your diving looks like underwater? It is lovely to see.
That’s if you dive tropical.
My diving is like this. Sandusky wreck in the Straits of Mackinac. I dived her last year.
https://youtu.be/tf7rMm7-21A
Very cool. The device on the wrist... I'm guessing that shows depth and... not sure what else?
Dive computer. Gives depth, time, water temp, decompression status. Might even show how much gas in your tanks if you have the wireless transmitters.
happystuff
9-4-21, 12:07pm
Thanks for the explanation. I guess technology truly is everywhere - and thank goodness for that for a lot of things! lol
Looks like I won’t be finishing up the deco procedures class that gets me down to 150ft until the spring. Might be able to do 1-2 days this fall, but I’m not sure about that. There are several factors totally out of my control. Anyway, it’s not like I need it immediately for Great Lakes wreck diving. That season is pretty much over. Lots of charters get blown out from now on.
Focusing on full cave. I fun dived with instructor and a friend of hers yesterday. Instructor said I’ve made huge progress. I’m pretty horizontal. I’m moving through the water much better than I used to. Frog kick just needs me to rotate ankles a bit more.
Again, Tradd, I am in awe of your skills and growth in this hobby!
Thank you. It’s been a ton of hard work. My instructor said no one tries harder than I do.
Teacher Terry
9-9-21, 3:05pm
I know from working with a diver how much work goes into the sport. Her boyfriend was a cave diver and she became one too.
happystuff
9-10-21, 9:25am
I agree with nswef and TT - it's nice to see someone pursuing a passion and being able to see the growth. Thanks again for sharing your experiences.
I’ve had to put in more work than a lot of people. I’m a slow scuba learner. But once I get something, it’s there. I’m also essentially doing this on my own. A lot of tech divers have regular buddies they dive with and do classes with. I have occasional tech trained buddies but no one locally. They’re at least two hours away. I’m diving with one of these folks in OH tomorrow. He’s from MI.
Did 0.7 miles in the pool tonight.
Pool was full last Sunday so I’ve gone back to the recumbent bike. Up to 12 miles in 53 minutes.
Remember me talking about the rebreather a few months back? Well, I was fun diving with the Madison dive shop and instructor was doing a rebreather class for two guys. One of them has the exact unit I want to get. I took full advantage of this opportunity. Asked permission to go all over it. Even got to get into the harness and walk around with it on land to see how my knees were with the weight. Just fine! That guy is a few years older than I am. His eyes lit up when I mentioned I love Great Lakes wrecks. He said most of his buddies have stopped diving. He said he needs more buddies and we exchanged contact info. HE HAS A BOAT!! 26’ (?) cabin cruiser. I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot. :0!:D
Teacher Terry
9-26-21, 2:05am
That’s great news Tradd!
happystuff
9-26-21, 9:54am
That's wonderful, Tradd! Sounds like you may have a new diving buddy!
iris lilies
9-26-21, 11:07am
Me with the CCR.
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cute!
Today was my fifth diversary. :D
happystuff
10-2-21, 6:50pm
Today was my fifth diversary. :D
Happy Diversary! And thanks for sharing your adventures.
rosarugosa
10-3-21, 7:34am
Happy Diversary! I've never wished someone a happy diversary before!
Thank you!
I’ve recently been introduced to two new dive buddies. One is a gal about my age I met through a mutual friend who has been raving about me for weeks. Another is a guy who has the same rebreather I want to get. More dive buddies are always nice!
Got on the scale for the first time in about six weeks this morning and it showed I was down 12 lbs. I doubt it's that much, but maybe 5-6lbs is more realistic. Been working out a lot and have really cut back on the fast food.
Also sent my instructor a message about ordering the rebreather I wanted for training in the spring. :D This is so exciting!
happystuff
10-9-21, 5:44pm
Great, Tradd. Congrats on the weight and the rebreather!
rosarugosa
10-9-21, 5:49pm
Good work, Tradd!
Dived at the local quarry last Saturday. I accidentally left my sidemount rig on one of the picnic tables when I was loading my car. Didn't notice until today when I was at the quarry pulling my gear out that I didn't have it.
Some piece of absolute human trash stole it. Douche bag.
Talked to the quarry owners who know me well as I'm a regular. No one turned it in. Had of one my backup dive lights clipped to it, too.
I'm just sick. Spent so much time tweaking it and now I have to start all over again. Already working on getting a replacement. I have no time to be out of the water. Going to cost me about $1K to replace it. I've posted on my local dive club's FB page with a lot of people on it, but I'm not expecting to get it back. Don't know if I would want to dive it again, anyway, no clue if someone would have done something to it.
happystuff
10-10-21, 1:39pm
I'm so sorry, Tradd. I hope you get lucky and the facebook post produces some results.
I'm already working on replacing it. I can't miss any more diving time.
Teacher Terry
10-11-21, 1:01am
So sorry Tradd. That’s a big loss.
Thank you! Ran up to my instructor’s shop in Madison. They had one in stock that fit very well. I got a $170 discount ad I’m a good customer. She’s also loaning me a pair of tanks through the winter so I don’t have to dive the two pair that have expensive helium in them meant for deep dives. So those will get saved for class dives in the spring. I have one pair of non helium tanks I got to have extra in the spring. Now I’ve got two pair for my cave diving this winter.
Today is payday and I know have $8500 in the scuba fund which is enough to pay for the rebreather I want. Still have to save up $2K for class fee and incidentals during class. That will be easy to save up for as I have the rest of the winter.
rosarugosa
10-15-21, 3:25pm
Wow Tradd, that's not a cheap hobby!
Very few people get to rebreather level. There are a lot of advantages given the type of diving I do. Cost of helium for the deeper dives will be much less, for one thing.
Got the replacement sidemount rig in the water today. I’m really glad the other one got stolen! The new one dives wonderfully! Makes a big difference.
happystuff
10-17-21, 9:08pm
Congrats, Tradd! Glad it worked out so well.
Did insurance cover your loss? At any rate, this was another example of things turning out much better than could be expected.
Happy dives!
Stolen SM was bought used online. I had no proof of purchase. I just let it go. Did let the dive shops I deal with know and put out a message on dive club’s FB group.
You all are not going to believe this. I was asked over the weekend by my diving instructor if I would consider opening a dive shop in Manitowoc, WI.
A new NOAA National marine sanctuary has just been established - the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast NMS, that focuses on the shipwrecks in the area. It goes from Port Washington up to north of Two Rivers (to the Manitowoc County northern boundary. There is ONE part time dive shop in the area. Very part time because the owner is out running dive charters from May through September on the Great Lakes or he’s away doing rebreather training. There was a 3-4 year old dive shop in Port Washington that closed last year due to covid. If the area is going to attract divers, there needs to be a dive shop.
There was a dive shop in Manitowoc, but it closed a few years back. Someone has been sort of keeping it partly open, mainly to fill tanks on summer weekends. That person turned down doing it full time as he has a thriving family business doing commercial diving. The closest dive shop is in Green Bay, which is 45 minutes from Manitowoc. Otherwise, you have to drive down to Milwaukee.
I told instructor I was flattered, but I was going to have to turn her down. I can’t see a full time dive shop surviving up there. Diving season is May through September/October. I can see someone having a shop open Friday through Sunday during the diving season for tank fills, perhaps some rental equipment, and some small odds and ends. If I had a full time remote job, that might be different, but I don’t. I wouldn’t get to dive much, keeping a dive shop open during the summer.
I’m also not an instructor, don’t do equipment repair, and I’m not mechanically inclined. I wouldn’t be able to troubleshoot the compressor for filling tanks. It would be a huge financial risk. I have to think about my retirement. I’m 52 and I’ve worked hard to get where I am in my career. It’s just me. I don’t have a guy to lean on. It would also be hard on my body with the sciatica and knee issues, hauling tanks and such.
She told me she thought of me because I’m passionate about diving and Great Lakes shipwrecks. I’m very flattered she thought of me, but nope. Just nope. We talked at a WI underwater archaeology event at the WI Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, which is a lovely museum. Highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area.
And someone had previously mentioned shipwreck dive slates they are available through the WI Historical Society? I picked some up at the shipwreck event on Saturday. :D
I see what one person dive shops go through here in the Chicago area. One guy does everything, although he does have a second instructor to help out with classes. If he goes on vacation, the shop gets shut down. Another shop, the owner has other instructors to help with classes, but it’s him in the shop. In the winter when it’s very slow, he goes next door to his brother’s plastic molding shop to help out. They’re struggling.
happystuff
10-18-21, 1:42pm
As you said, Tradd, that is soooo flattering!!! But I understand your not accepting. While diving is a passion for you, I think you are right with your analogy of the shop ownership duties.
sweetana3
10-18-21, 2:23pm
To have a successful business, you have to be passionate about running a business. A hobbyist will need to worry/work the businesses far more than the fun hobby issues. Looks like you made a careful analysis and came up with the right decision for you.
I suggested that the dive shops within an hours drive be contacted to see if they wanted to set up a fill station on weekends in the summer. That is done elsewhere on the Great Lakes. I think that would be the best bet.
Had a great dive yesterday. My frog kick got pronounced “pretty good” and “looks normal.” It’s taken a lot of hard work to get to this point. Yay! :D I was also told my new sidemount rig doesn’t need any tweaks. It’s much more solid than the old one. I was at Wazee Lake near Black River Falls, WI. Gorgeous day. Got to talk with a lot of divers in the group from the Madison dive shop. They had several classes going on.
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Go to 4:40 in this video for a good look at frog kick. It keeps your feet up so you don’t kick up the bottom, unlike the flutter/scissors kick that most recreational divers use.
https://youtu.be/btsJZ2Zu9u8
happystuff
10-24-21, 3:05pm
Beautiful, Tradd. Sounds like you had a great day!
So the last few days have been interesting.
WI instructor told me that I needed to improve my stamina before doing full cave as dives are mostly upward of 90 minutes as well as getting frog kick better. I went back to the gym at the beginning of September. Did pool laps (snorkeling) for a couple of weeks, but I went back to the recumbent bike as it’s a much more intense workout. I’m now doing 60-70 sessions 3x a week, 14-16 miles. I did 16.8 miles in 70 minutes last night. I’ve lost about 12 lbs as a bonus!
Was in contact with WI instructor Sunday and no bueno. She’s still concerned about my stamina. Frog kick is decent now but not powerful enough to deal with the flow (current) in the higher flow caves in FL or MO. And even if she had approved me doing full this winter, I wouldn’t have been able to finish in FL. She was already committed to other students. Really pissed me for since I had told her multiple times I wanted to do the class this winter AND finish in FL since physical access to the sites is pretty difficult for some of the MO sites. I don’t know where the disconnect happened. But in any case, next time everything will be in writing and in writing multiple times.
I’m invited to hang out with them every night in FL as there is a whole group that comes down.
I had a couple of pretty bad days. Major blue funk. Lotsa crying. I’ve calmed down. WI instructor told me I just have to progress at my own pace. She said I’m really improving so to celebrate that and move forward. A diving friend talked me off the edge. I dived with her last winter at the WI mine after I got my intro to cave certification. She suggested doing a day or two with a FL instructor who is a friend. He’s also recommended by my WI instructor for people who want to train only in FL. I had a really good hour long phone call with this FL instructor last night. We’re going to do two days at the beginning of my trip. We are going to do full cave level dives. You can do dives one step above if you’re with an instructor. Since I’m partway through the deco procedures class, we’ll be able to do deco dives. The WI mine is filled with ground water so there is no flow or current. The FL caves were formed by springs and they all have flow, of varying levels. We’re going to do day one at a lower flow cave and second day at a higher flow one. I’m calling this “intro to flow.” The FL instructor is considering this to be “pre-full cave” for whenever I take that class. The rest of the trip I’ll be cave diving with friends for fun. The first day (Sunday) I’ll be recovering from the two day drive and will go to a spring where you can solo dive (no cave, just room to dive).
WI instructor told me she was more concerned about me with high flow in the MO caves than the physical access. She told me to dive higher flow caves in FL and see how it went. If I do OK in the high flow, that opens up full cave being finished in MO if I continue to progress. We will see.
iris lilies
11-10-21, 1:17pm
Honestly, it sounds like your instructor is calm, rational, and analytical in assessing your skills. That my dear is your safety net.
happystuff
11-10-21, 1:24pm
I have to agree with IL - and it sounds like you really do realize all this, just that it is not where you want to be. I agree with your instructor who said you have made tremendous gains in your diving! And you are taking all the steps you need to get where you want to be! I'm still in awe of your diving knowledge and skill.
rosarugosa
11-10-21, 1:36pm
What the others said. This is definitely a hobby where you want to err on the side of caution. If your hobby was knitting or pressing flowers, that would be a different story. :)
Yes, it’s quite frustrating I’ve been working my ass off and it’s not good enough. I’m pissed and that makes me work harder, like when I didn’t pass the broker’s exam the first time.
Hang in there, Tradd. You are an inspiration with your effort and commitment.
Echoing the others. From this distance, your progress has seemed so rapid and phenomenal to me. It plucks up my courage to think of yours.
Your willingness to work even harder will carry the day, I believe.
We're all rooting for you.
Teacher Terry
11-14-21, 8:33pm
I am definitely a fan of caution when it comes to cave diving. You will accomplish what you set out to. I have no doubt about that.
The neat sky at Wazee Lake, near Black River Falls, WI yesterday. I went diving with a buddy, and had a nice one hour dive. Viz was 60ft before two guys from LaCrosse were practicing their search and recovery skills and silted us out! They later apologized at least. Wind was brutal, which is why we only did one dive. 50F water. Air temp was low-mid 30s with windchill probably around 15-20F. There was a wee bit of snow on the grassy areas.
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happystuff
11-16-21, 9:46am
Beautiful picture! Brrrr... that's too cold for me!
iris lilies
11-16-21, 9:49am
The neat sky at Wazee Lake, near Black River Falls, WI yesterday. I went diving with a buddy, and had a nice one hour dive. Viz was 60ft before two guys from LaCrosse were practicing their search and recovery skills and silted us out! They later apologized at least. Wind was brutal, which is why we only did one dive. 50F water. Air temp was low-mid 30s with windchill probably around 15-20F. There was a wee bit of snow on the grassy areas.
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That is a beautiful sky there, dramatic. It is wonderful that you get out in nature and the elements like this.
You are so brave, Tradd!!!
Thank you - I was surprised the photo came out as nicely as it did. Just taken with my phone.
Brrrrr, but you did get out and enjoyed that. It is a neat photo.
Got fish?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3eiM8fL720
Got fish?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3eiM8fL720
That was fun. Thanks for sharing.
happystuff
11-21-21, 9:48am
That video is sooo cute!!! How special!
Got fish?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3eiM8fL720
Thanks so much for sharing this.
catherine
11-22-21, 12:06pm
Got fish?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3eiM8fL720
I.love.this.
Recognizing these kinds of connections with all life forms is the only way we'll get beyond speciesism. So beautiful. Thanks, Jane!
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First WI cave dive of the season was good. 48F water. Sunny at least.
The Grim Reaper sign in every cave open for diving. At the line between the cavern zone where you can still see light from the outside and the cave.
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iris lilies
11-22-21, 12:57pm
The Grim Reaper sign in every cave open for diving. At the line between the cavern zone where you can still see light from the outside and the cave.
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Jesus god.
Not for the faint of heart. I guess ya’ll have confidence in your training.
Sign back story.
https://cavediving.com/reaper/?fbclid=IwAR3oiiy2KQNNCi0zWQNbzmGKuMx8Hz9NC-CxAX2Psw8TZ9ZW1R2FpF8zVOs
This was published in 1980. Talks a lot about how the cave diving rules developed. It was really the first cave diving manual.
https://nsscds.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Blueprint-for-Survival.pdf
happystuff
11-22-21, 1:19pm
Oh, my! Well, at least there is a warning.
There are still occasionally people in a single tank who go where they shouldn’t.
You look radiantly happy, and perfectly at home!
Yossarian
11-23-21, 11:19am
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First WI cave dive of the season was good. 48F water. Sunny at least.
I don't know, the outdoor skating rinks are open in Chicago. Something about diving now up here seems a bridge too far for me!
I am planning on finally getting certified in January, but I'm going to Barbados to do it >8)
I don't know, the outdoor skating rinks are open in Chicago. Something about diving now up here seems a bridge too far for me!
I am planning on finally getting certified in January, but I'm going to Barbados to do it >8)
Haha. Warm water divers. :D
Are you doing the class entirely in Barbados or at least doing classroom/pool at home and checkout dives on vacation? It’s actually best to do classroom/pool at home so you don’t waste vacation time on that.
If you need a dive shop recommendation, let me know.
Leave Friday for FL. Spending the night in Nashville both ways. It’s sort of the midway point. Didn’t dive this weekend as both buddies had to cancel last night for today. That has never happened before. One wasn’t feeling well and the other had a family emergency. But not diving today means I get a head start on packing for FL as my gear is dry. There is a huge mound of gear on my LR floor. I was already packed for diving today so I just had to take out the heavy drysuit undies. Won’t need them in FL.
Getting ready and anticipating an adventure is the best part. Enjoy!
Wanted to just post my first FL cave dives were yesterday at Peacock Speings. Challenging but fun. We’re at Ginnie Soringd today so we’ll be pulling to get in against the flow coming out.
Yes, Iris, I am still alive.
iris lilies
12-21-21, 9:20am
Wanted to just post my first FL cave dives were yesterday at Peacock Speings. Challenging but fun. We’re at Ginnie Soringd today so we’ll be pulling to get in against the flow coming out.
Yes, Iris, I am still alive.
oh thank god! Haha
Happy you are alive and warm and doing something so fun. You are my role model!
Did my 400th dive today! Obligatory photo coming in a day or two.
happystuff
12-22-21, 8:00pm
Did my 400th dive today! Obligatory photo coming in a day or two.
Wow! Congrats!
400th dive photo - Peacock Springs
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Neat to see! Is the water as green as it looks? I was expecting spring water to be clear but maybe activity disturbed any sediment.
Water actually has a blue tinge. I’m used to green water.
happystuff
12-23-21, 10:46pm
That's a lot of dives! Great picture. Looks like you are having a great time.
Teacher Terry
12-23-21, 10:50pm
Cool picture!
iris lilies
12-24-21, 1:03pm
400th dive photo - Peacock Springs
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nice!
Iris, you would probably have freaked if you saw me yesterday. 350ft back into the cave at Ginnie Springs through the Devil’s Eye hole in the river and basically pulling my way 350ft back into the cave because the flow coming out is too strong to swim against. Going through narrow restrictions and sort of bumping yourself through. Three dives yesterday getting better and further back. The ride out on the flow is a wild one!
Sounds as though this trip is meeting your expectations and you are really enjoying yourself. Wonderful to hear!
Thanks so much for sharing.
iris lilies
12-25-21, 9:03am
That is high adventure, I will say.
what is next, mountaineering?
happystuff
12-25-21, 9:33am
So glad this trip is turning into everything you have hoped and prepped for. Merry Christmas!!
Teacher Terry
12-25-21, 1:08pm
Yikes! Reading that was scary enough:)).
iris lilies
12-25-21, 1:27pm
Yikes! Reading that was scary enough:)).
The only part I liked was “ride out on the flow… “ I can picture getting out of there quickly.
That is high adventure, I will say.
what is next, mountaineering?
Haha. No. That sounds awful. Heights.
And you’re pulling against the rocks. My fingertips are shredded.
So glad this trip is turning into everything you have hoped and prepped for. Merry Christmas!!
And Merry Christmas to you.
The only part I liked was “ride out on the flow… “ I can picture getting out of there quickly.
Iris, yes, really got out of there fast.
Terry, it was scary the first time in there on Tuesday. It was much better yesterday.
iris lilies
12-25-21, 4:57pm
Haha. No. That sounds awful. Heights.
And you’re pulling against the rocks. My fingertips are shredded.
heights are a problem? Yeah, well, I remember when you were somewhat scared of water. You didnt like putting your head under.
Are you getting any non-cave diving in? Just simple, pretty, Florida underwater sea scenery?
heights are a problem? Yeah, well, I remember when you were somewhat scared of water. You didnt like putting your head under.
Are you getting any non-cave diving in? Just simple, pretty, Florida underwater sea scenery?
I don’t dive salt water.
Heights have been a problem my entire life.
iris lilies
12-25-21, 5:04pm
I don’t dive salt water.
Heights have been a problem my entire life.
Oh I didn’t realize these cave in Florida were freshwater caves. I guess that makes sense.
Finished trip today with two nice dives. Head back north tomorrow.
Here are some photos from yesterday. Peacock Springs
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With instructor last week and my shredded fingertips
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Okay, I envy you the weather, truly, but not the danger involved!
Awesome to see these photos. Thanks.
iris lilies
12-27-21, 9:04am
Awesome warning “ Divers have died here” oooooo-Kay. Great photos otherwise.
Yes, Tradd, You are so brave! I love that you shared the pictures of your adventure. I would be joining you in the last photo ON THE DECK!!! Congratulations!
happystuff
12-27-21, 10:47am
Wonderful pictures! Looks like you had a fabulous time - except maybe for the shredded fingers - ouch! Thanks for sharing.
rosarugosa
12-28-21, 5:38am
Yes, ouch on the fingers, but glad you had a good time and lived to tell about it!
iris lilies
12-28-21, 10:02am
Thanks to you Tradd I had a nightmare about a claustrophobic swimming situation. Blech. Even during the dream I was thinking to myself “why would anyone do this voluntarily?”
Iris, I will not apologize’
boss mare
12-28-21, 12:10pm
Those are absolutely breathtaking pictures. I am claustrophobic and it has gotten worse as I have gotten older. I am so jelly that you can do that.
iris lilies
12-28-21, 12:41pm
Iris, I will not apologize’
Ok! In my dream I was going to compete with my cousin in a swimming event but in order to get down to the pool we had steps down in a very long tunneled low ceiling place, kind of like a subway entrance only with very low ceiling. It was horrible.
This particular cousin has been dead for some years. It’s not even a cousin I was especially close to.
Iris, you would probably have freaked if you saw me yesterday. 350ft back into the cave at Ginnie Springs through the Devil’s Eye hole in the river and basically pulling my way 350ft back into the cave because the flow coming out is too strong to swim against. Going through narrow restrictions and sort of bumping yourself through. Three dives yesterday getting better and further back. The ride out on the flow is a wild one!
oh HELL no. Glad you enjoy it though!!!
Just got home. I left Nashville at 3:45 am to attempt to beat the snow. It started about 3 hours before I got home. Only saw one plow truck in IN. Lots as soon as I crossed the border into IL. Roads were iffy in IN but just wet in IL due to the plow trucks spreading salt. Came home to a lovely pile of Christmas cards. Ordered food for delivery from a local Thai place - pepper steak and rice with egg rolls on the side. Hauling in stuff and have to do a load of laundry. Had done laundry where I was staying on Saturday so I don’t have a ton to do.
Welcome back, safe and sound.
Another diver told me to put Carmex (medicated lip balm) on the shredded fingertips and it really has helped.
The only part I liked was “ride out on the flow… “ I can picture getting out of there quickly.
Took 20 minutes to claw our way 350ft back and about 9 minutes to get out.
Awesome warning “ Divers have died here” oooooo-Kay. Great photos otherwise.
As I’ve explained before, there were tons of diver deaths in the 60s and 70s before cave training was established. Not sure if I linked to this before. Sheck Ellet, a FL cave diving pioneer, wrote this book and developed the rules from analyzing cave diving accidents. Not having a continuous guideline to the surface, enough lights that lasted the length of the dive, exceeding your training, or going too deep are major factors. Many open water regular divers died in the caves in the early days and some still do. Testosterone poisoning or stupidity.
It’s interesting reading.
https://nsscds.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Blueprint-for-Survival.pdf
Yes, Tradd, You are so brave! I love that you shared the pictures of your adventure. I would be joining you in the last photo ON THE DECK!!! Congratulations!
Haha.
So glad you all enjoyed the photos. I love sharing my adventures.
Decided I’m most likely NOT going to do rebreather next year. I would be biting off too much with the dive goals I already have for the year. Took a bunch of cash out of the scuba fund and threw some on cc and most on car loan
A friend who was going to go rebreather too is waiting another year as well. She wants to put a big dent in her school loans.
Been three weeks since I was in the water. May not dive again until early March. Due to buddy availability. One just had lasik surgery and can’t dive for a month. The other buddy has a crazy work schedule.
Hurt my lower back after falling on ice three weeks ago. Finally able today to do dumbbell squats again. My underdesk cycle is da bomb. I do at least half hour most days. Cancelled gym membership. I’m able to workout much more frequently since it’s at home now. Did 22.5 miles in 51 minutes yesterday and 24.1 miles in 55 minutes today. Feels great.
Thanks, razz! Making full use of my non-diving time.
Just found this video. It’s the Devil’s Eye cave at Ginnie Springs in FL. Gives you a good idea of that dive.
https://youtu.be/QfySAzq8vlA
Just found out the local diving hole is likely opening in early May not April. That messes with my plans big time. I need at least a month of work on skills before I can resume the deco procedures class I started last year.
You are BRAVE!! The video is amazing and horrifying to me. You are amazing, not horrifying, and so strong!
Video isn’t showing up for me. That is the cave where I got the shredded fingertips!
Posting just link.
https://youtu.be/QfySAzq8vlA
You are BRAVE!! The video is amazing and horrifying to me. You are amazing, not horrifying, and so strong!
Thank you! The Keyhole restriction was the worst part of it. Have to turn sideways.
I am not claustrophobic but that video spooked me underwater and confined. You would definitely work up to doing that dive.
This is another one I did in FL. Peanut Tunnel at Peacock Springs.
https://youtu.be/3jrmmmFEpa4
iris lilies
2-6-22, 2:27pm
I heard a Criminal podcast about a police department diver who dived into the LaBrea tarpits looking for a murder weapon. That was techinically challenging, as you can imagine. The police department said they didn’t want to NOT Go after the murder weapon because that will signal to criminals the tar pits are a good place to dispose of weapons and contraband.
I won’t watch the recent set of Cave dives from Tradd, but I’m glad you had fun and I’m glad you made it back safely
I heard a Criminal podcast about a police department diver who dived into the LaBrea tarpits looking for a murder weapon. That was techinically challenging, as you can imagine. The police department said they didn’t want to NOT Go after the murder weapon because that will signal to criminals the tar pits are a good place to dispose of weapons and contraband.
I won’t watch the recent set of Cave dives from Tradd, but I’m glad you had fun and I’m glad you made it back safely
Last winter there was an online diving thing in the Midwest that was held in person pre-covid. The police diver that dived LaBrea was one of the presenters. It was fascinating.
I've had a month of working out on the under desk cycle in front of the TV for at least 30 minutes. Nice leg muscles. And I feel great. I've done as much as 27 miles in 61 minutes.
Dived at the WI mine yesterday. Great dive. About 50 degree air temp, water 49 degrees. 40 minute dive, 400ft back in the mine, 65ft max depth.
In cave diving you have to have a guideline from open water to the permanent guideline in the cave. That's what you see me doing with my reel.
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Doing secondary tie off at the pipe grid across the entrance of the cave (to keep cars out after it was first closed - didn't fully flood for a few years)
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The permanent line begins at the Grim Reaper sign in many caves.
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Picking up the reel at the end of the dive. It was a VERY good dive. I took two lbs off the weight i was carrying. Made a huge difference in my buoyancy. I was much more comfortable.
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I now have a new mine diving buddy! Instructor joked she made me a new dive buddy yesterday. Early 30s guy I've dived with several times before. He just got his intro to cave cert yesterday. I no longer have to dive with either of the really advanced divers I've been diving with at the mine. I was the only intro level diver active at the mine. Now, there's another.
rosarugosa
2-22-22, 5:25am
That's great that you have a new dive buddy, Tradd. So the wetsuit keeps you warm?
It’s a drysuit. Doesn’t let water in.
Just curious - who is responsible for ensuring the permanent guideline is secure? A new dive buddy is great.
Just curious - who is responsible for ensuring the permanent guideline is secure? A new dive buddy is great.
At the mine, it’s the instructor. She is the only key holder. If there was an issue, some of the experienced regulars would help make repairs.
In FL, there is a group of volunteers. Report an issue at one of the dive shops in cave country, and it will get taken care of.
happystuff
2-22-22, 9:32am
Very cool, tradd! And congrats on the new dive buddy.
Not sure exactly when I will be able to get down to FL this coming Christmas. I have to work around coworker’s schedule. His in laws live in FL and they promised they’d go down for a week at either T’giving or Christmas. I’m crossing my fingers it’s T’giving. This is important as it affects full cave for me.
My WI instructor and the FL instructor who did “intro to flow” in December have been good friends for 20 years. I have options. I can do full half at the WI mine/half in FL with WI instructor if I can be there during the two weeks she goes down around the holidays. If I can’t get down there at the holidays, I can do half at WI mine with her and half in FL with FL instructor. Or compete full with FL instructor if I can be down there for more than a week. I’ve talked with both instructors and they are fine with any of the above variations.
WI instructor knows I would only not do full with her due to vacation scheduling. Glad to have options and have this figured out now.
Very cool, tradd! And congrats on the new dive buddy.
Thank you! Looking forward to diving with him.
Today is my birthday. 53! Went diving at the WI mine. Instructor pulled out the decorations and put them up on the gate at the mine. She made spicy brownies. Yummy! Had great dives. Weather was 60 and sunny. Awesome day. 4290
Teacher Terry
3-20-22, 9:45pm
Happy birthday! Glad you had a great time.
iris lilies
3-20-22, 10:04pm
Beautiful Tradd! I am so glad you are getting out in this nice weather.
happystuff
3-20-22, 10:11pm
Happy Birthday! Sounds like you had a perfect celebration doing what you love!
rosarugosa
3-21-22, 5:24am
That sounds like a perfect birthday, Tradd! Glad you enjoyed your day.
Delightful! Happy Birthday!
Really nice video on Ginnie Springs. This is the cave where I shredded my fingertips.
https://youtu.be/WD7q_9HhFZE
Thanks for the neat video.
Looks like I’m maybe going rebreather this year. Seems like I’m not going to be able to get enough helium to finish Helitrox class this summer after talking to a number of dive shops. Instructor suggested this would be a good time to go CCR and deep after. 3-5 month lead time right now depending on unit. We’re going to talk more in a few days. I’m excited!
This is the $10K for unit and first class.
Just put down my $500 deposit. Probably July-September before I have my breather. Mfg has component shortages like everyone else these days. That deposit gets me a place in line.
Pricey sport hobby sometimes!
Pricey sport hobby sometimes!
Yep, but look at it this way. If I was a vacation diver, I’d be dropping a ton of money on traveling. I’m spending more on gear, but diving a lot regionally.
You are looking at the big picture with wisdom.
My next diving adventure is going to be Mexico for full cave in August. My WI instructor recommended this. Going with a woman instructor she knows well. Had a nice chat last night. Going to MX as the caves are very shallow. I get narked bad deeper. FL caves are 100-130ft deep. There is a severe worldwide helium shortage so none to be had to use in my breathing gas to not get narked. The MX cenotes are shallow, usually less than 40ft.
happystuff
5-20-22, 11:03am
Definitely something to look forward to, Tradd!
Was talking with rebreather mfg today and they told me they’re looking it at it shipping mid-September. That’s about what I figured. That means I will be doing training in cooler weather, plus fall is my favorite season.
Been diving a lot in IL and WI. One plus about diving in WI is that gas is about $1/gallon cheaper.
Will be in MX in less than a month. The summer is going fast. Will be putting aside my drysuit for the next two weekends and diving my medium weight new wetsuit and two aluminum tanks (usually dive steel ones) as aluminums are what is dived in MX. I haven’t dived wet in more than 3 years. The aluminums dive much differently than steels so needs a bit of practice.
Been picking up a few bits and pieces to use with my rebreather once it arrives. I dive regularly with a buddy who has the same unit I’ll be getting so I’ve been seeing what he does. Things such as a folding work table to use when diving with it at sites that don’t have picnic tables. I’ll check with the manufacturer when I get back from
MX to see if the mid-September ship date is still good.
Was supposed to do Lake Michigan shipwreck diving out of Milwaukee in June and yesterday, but they were both cancelled due to boat mechanical issues. Going to try again in August. This is through my WI instructor’s dive shop.
Just got word from the rebreather manufacturer that my unit is scheduled to ship Sept. 16th. Great to finally have a date. Two more months…
I leave a week from tomorrow for my MX trip for full cave class. Will be staying in Playa del Carmen. Here is a video of MX cave diving.
https://youtu.be/4AQQk3y3Qg0
I got to go to Playa del Carmen about 2 1/2 years ago - beautiful area. Enjoy.
rosarugosa
7-26-22, 3:25pm
Wow Tradd, that looks amazing.
So I’ve essentially passed full cave. Just a few out of water things tomorrow and one fun dive (not sure where). I’m exhausted. My poor ankles from the skeeter bites. Just want to get home to reliable ac and less humidity. I’ll restrict my international travel to Canada in the future.
After second dive today at Tajma Ha.
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iris lilies
8-8-22, 11:23pm
Nice!
Congrats on passing full cave!!! Love the pic.
iris lilies
8-9-22, 6:42pm
Quoting from The Travels of Tradd:
”Tradd passed her full cave challenge, and upon conquering that large hurdle, decided never to dive in a cave again. Her internet forum friends all sighed in relief.”
Those cenotes are full of all kinds of treasures, but yeah--what Iris Lily said.
Nope. Won’t be quitting. LOL.
https://adventureswithpurpose.com/
iris lilies
8-9-22, 9:34pm
https://adventureswithpurpose.com/
This reminds me of the podcast I heard about the emergency services diver who went diving in the La Brea tar pits, looking for a gun. He wasn’t sure when he went in that he would come out of that sticky mess alive.
Don’t give this girl any ideas.
https://adventureswithpurpose.com/
No way. That kind of stuff has no interest to me.
This reminds me of the podcast I heard about the emergency services diver who went diving in the La Brea tar pits, looking for a gun. He wasn’t sure when he went in that he would come out of that sticky mess alive.
Don’t give this girl any ideas.
Heard about that one, too. Nope.
Beautiful picture! What a way to spend your summer vacation!
If anyone would like a link to the photos and vids from MX trip, let me know and I will PM you the link. Not going to post it publicly since it shows my real name.
Created another Google account so I could anonymously upload video to YT. This is a fun dive the day after I was done with class.
https://youtu.be/15mcV-wrJ8k
Our lights coming up from a dive
https://youtu.be/zx-zFJwMbEs
iris lilies
8-19-22, 1:56am
That background is really spectacular in nature’s artistic beauty. All the colors of green! All the textures! Just gorgeous.
I don’t know why, but the separate Google account I had created just to be able to post vids was terminated. Weird.
Edit: got google account reinstated. Not sure what the deal was.
+1
Love the sound effects too!
+1
Love the sound effects too!
I have no clue what’s the mechanical whining sound during the one video.
happystuff
8-20-22, 9:27am
Very cool videos!! How deep is the pool in the second - where the lights are coming up? Looks shallow enough to wade across, but I'm thinking not. LOL.
Thanks so much for sharing.
Very cool videos!! How deep is the pool in the second - where the lights are coming up? Looks shallow enough to wade across, but I'm thinking not. LOL.
Thanks so much for sharing.
The cenote (sink hole) at Tajma Ha is only shallow at the edge. There were snorkelers while we were there. Where you enter the cave, it drops off very sharply. I don’t really know how deep the entire pool is. We were only in the one section. Might have to do some googling later to find out.
happystuff
8-20-22, 9:53am
The cenote (sink hole) at Tajma Ha is only shallow at the edge. There were snorkelers while we were there. Where you enter the cave, it drops off very sharply. I don’t really know how deep the entire pool is. We were only in the one section. Might have to do some googling later to find out.
Thanks. I had a feeling it was probably as you described.
rosarugosa
8-20-22, 1:47pm
That background is really spectacular in nature’s artistic beauty. All the colors of green! All the textures! Just gorgeous.
I agree, that is really an amazing picture! And Tradd looks so happy!
I agree, that is really an amazing picture! And Tradd looks so happy!
That photo actually shows a good smile. There are other photos from the trip that are horrendous! LOL
That is definitely a photo for my Christmas card!
Got some maybe yay! news about my rebreather. Instructor is trying to get mfg to ship for arrival by the 16th. Class would start the 17th/18th if it arrives by the 16th. Also depends on if my classmate from MN is able to make it, too.
happystuff
8-31-22, 9:14am
Fingers-crossed that it all works out, Tradd!
Fingers-crossed that it all works out, Tradd!
Thank you, happy!
And it has! Instructor told me today that the mfg will ship with delivery by 9/17. That means class starts on 9/18 with hands on classroom and a pool session. Then we have our first open water dives on 9/25. The first two weekends of October are also set aside for class. We may not need the second weekend in October, but it’s available if we need it.
I’m so danged excited for rebreather class that my stuff is already packed. Rebreather ships to instructor’s shop so I won’t see it until the 18th. I was told to bring my entire hose stash as we’re not sure what length will be needed for some hoses. Depends on how unit sits on me. Dug through spares box and pulled out the ones I might need, which are of them. Gathered the other needed little bits and bobs together. Pulled out bathing suit, rash guard, leggings, and a towel for the pool.
Glad to have all that stuff out of the way.
iris lilies
9-7-22, 1:31pm
What soes a re breather do?
What soes a re breather do?
It’s a closed breathing loop. There is a canister with a granular soda lime stuff that scrubs the carbon dioxide out of your exhaled breath. O2 is then added as needed. Much more efficient use of breathing gas than open circuit scuba (aka bubbles).
Quite expensive startup costs though. Mine was $9300 new and initial training is $1600. Rebreathers can easily kill you if there is too much or too little O2 so training is much more extensive than usual scuba training.
iris lilies
9-7-22, 1:38pm
It’s a closed breathing loop. There is a canister with a granular soda lime stuff that scrubs the carbon dioxide out of your exhaled breath. O2 is then added as needed. Much more efficient use of breathing gas than open circuit scuba (aka bubbles).
Quite expensive startup costs though. Mine was $9300 new and initial training is $1600. Rebreathers can easily kill you if there is too much or too little O2 so training is much more extensive than usual scuba training.
oh good lord.
well, don’t die!
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