Guy I've loved reading this blog Natasha, I suspect every diver has experienced the challenges you describe so well but not all of the good ones you've had. A really good insight. It's particularly interesting for me as I was thinking of doing exactly the same and getting my DM for it's own sake. One obstacle was that it was difficult to make the commitment for several weeks leaving Carole on her own on the beach. Carole has been reading the blog too, shes says it proved what she has said all along, "you're all bonkers". But we know she's the one missing out!

Jo McDonald Hey, sorry not been in touch for a while. Life has been hectic this week trying to sort out work stuff and the wedding. But wedding stuff now starting to come along... About time you might say... But everything seemed to be taking a bit longer than expected! And looks like we are coming to Bali for our honeymoon - how funny is that?!? So glad to hear you saw a white shark and have been doing really well on the course after deciding to give it another go. Keep your chin up lovely, sounds like you are racking up loads of experiences. Really hope you squeezed in that massage. Xxx

Stuart Enjoying reading your blog :) in regards to the course just give it a fw days. Whether you finish it or bnot just make sure you enjoy yourself. X

Jo Hi Nat, really love reading your blog keep it going. Sounds like you are having fun and making the most of your time out there which is great to hear and glad to read you are throwing yourself in on the socialising too. ;-) Not sure what to say re course. Maybe give it a few more days to see what you think and keep enjoying yourself. It's an amazing opportunity having all this time off works being in Bali so make the most of it! It really doesn't matter if you finish the course or not.. It's more important you are enjoying your adventure. Xxxx

Jen Griffin Hi Natasha. If you'd like my advice: if you want to be a better diver then stick with the course. Remember you're NOT expected to be perfect, the course will teach you better buoyancy etc. It will teach you all the things you want to learn. It doesn't matter if you stop after that and don't become an instructor. You're only two days in...I'd really stick it out for now and see how you feel in a couple of weeks! I'm also not surprised you feel like you want to be guided rather than the guider at the moment. I think everyone feels like that at the start of the course (and if they say otherwise they're probably lying or mad)! Try not to over think it and just enjoy the diving while doing a course that will without a doubt make you a better more confident diver!

Jo Glad you arrived safely and are getting settled. Shopping needed I think, but no hardship there. ;-) have loads of fun tomorrow and a good night's sleep. Xx p.s. loving the blog, keep it going. :-)