Well then, as of tomorrow we will both be fully certified PADI open water scuba divers! Tonight we were going to celebrate having passed our final written exam this morning, until we were informed that our final day's practical diving will be kicking off at 7.30am, which rather binned those plans. So an early night it is, writing to all you poor souls back in Aberdeen working. As you can see, this is hard work here too! And you thought we were on holiday... The scuba diving has been fantastic fun. We have had a mixture of classroom theory and practical diving-no guessing which is the more enjoyable. Yesterday we took the dive boat to a beach where we had to practice various skills eg. recovering a lost mask and breathing regulator. Then we did a mini dive in the surrounding reef. This afternoon we did 2 dives; the first was a fun dive, the second had a few of the skills thrown in to learn and practice. Tomorrow we're being taken out into the open ocean to visit various sites and do a few different reef dives. One place we're going is called Shark Island-for scarily obvious reasons. The instructor (who i'm sure is Johnny Burrell from Razorlight masquerading as a scuba instructor) says we will most likely encounter sharks. Amusingly, and much to my relief, he says (deadly seriously) that sharks are scared of bubbles so won't attack divers. Here's hoping he's right. Outwith the scuba diving, the island is stunning. Imagine palm tree lined shores, crystal clear water, jungle covered hills and brilliant white sands and you're getting close. Parents, you'll be delighted to hear on the first day we rented a scooter to explore the island. Still don't think Liz has recovered. I certainly haven't recovered yet from Liz's 20second attempt at driving. The island has a great atmosphere and loads of great shops, restaurants etc, whilst retaining a very uncommercial and as yet undescovered vibe. How long this will stay like this is unclear though, seems to get more popular by the day! We like it so much we're contemplating delaying our exit to Koh Samui, which we've heard is the complete opposite of here. However, a change of accomodation will be required! The dive company threw in 4 nights free in one of their beach huts, but it is FAAAAR from luxurious! The setting is spectacular, with it's own private beach, and we can't complain 'cos afterall it is free. However, there are a few buts. 1. No hot shower. 2. Water supply is exremely erratic. It has a habit of cutting out when your hair is full of shampoo. Just have to stand and wait for it to return! 3. Whilst standing, one must be constantly on their guard against people climbing the hill behind us, as there is a 4 foot gap at the top of the wall which gives a fantastic view right inside! Luckily, it's not a busy hill... 4. It is crawling with lizards, ranging from 3cm to one foot. One said creature decided to stroll down the wall today as Liz was mid-shower, causing much hysteria. Then I thought it'd be funny to go round the back and re-startle the ejected lizard so it ran right back in again. Que yet more hysteria. It's also a quirky little place, where you have to take your shoes off before entering anywhere, else you'll be abruptly sent back out to remove them. Still not sure why! Messages from Liz: Millie looks looks lovely. Can't wait to see her when I get home. Happy birthday Mike!! (from Andy too) Say hello to the grandparents for me. Will try and get a postcard to them soon, since they can't read the updates. Mum: has any letter come through from the university? Please open if so and let me know, as it should be about diploma funding. Also, did you send receipt away? One last thing; could you please pop into work, pick up my pay slip and let me know how much I got paid- by text please! Thank you x Messages form Andy: Let's keep the Neighbours updates coming. Very good so far. Though Jennifer, what's going on? Rod: you're not getting that damn beer back. Pete -congrats on the job. Sure you'll singlehandedly take the Stewarty Milne group up to the next level. In around three weeks ill be joining the heady heights of living for the weekend with you. Can't wait... Hope all's well at home. Mum, make sure you're keeping J and B informed. Catriona, hope flat's coming long well. Dad, hope try and not do your back whilst ripping out the kitchen! Can't have two crippled parents! MUM: how much was the bookcase worth, and am I going to see your mugs on TV? Now we're both away back to see what lizards are chilling in our bathroom, and play a game of 'dodge the frogs' as we walk up the path to our bungalow. Love to all x