The holiday rush lasted well into January and 2010 just got away from me.  Did all of you get my Christmas cards???  Thought so.  Next year right?!   It's  certainly was a memorable end to 2010.  We welcomed some of our favorite returning guests Richard, Kevin, Sarah, Paul and Pat, Rich, Gabor as well as many new friends through the holidays and into the first of the year.  Gabor found diving to be "epic" and loved seeing the tinkers at shark fin.  His energy and enthusiasm are such a gift.  Sara counted every single fish she saw!  We had many rare sightings. Tinkers, bandits and dragon eels were  just a few of the highlights.  Richards relaxed and steady pace is always a treat and like Pat and Paul he is just thrilled with every little critter.  Kevin is like another set of eyes.  He has been here so many times, he knows just what to look for.    It is truly a joy to have such special people to share "under" Kona with.   The beginning of 2011 has brought magnificent humpback whales, some of the most perfect sunny days (no vog!)  and a bit of turbulent water.  I'd say "typical" January, but I think this year everything seems to be a little amplified.   We didn't have to look far for good water in December but January has had us hemmed into Kaiwi point for most of the month.  Thankfully, Kaiwi always impresses with it's abundant life and near perfect conditions.  Even on the roughest days, it has unusually calm and clear water. Cathy said "It's like diving in an aquarium full of fish" after our dives today.  We are experiencing a little fire dartfish "drop" on the reef and have enjoyed looking for the tiny "needles in a haystack" for the past week or so.  Lots of whale action and even a couple of close passes.  No underwater sightings yet though. We have had some great sharks, turtles and rays though.  I guess hoping for a humpback is being just a little greedy.  
    Happy Groundhogs Day all and Valentines Day too.  I think the Flame Angels are the perfect little Valentines Day fish.  Not sure about the Groundhogs Day mascot....Punxsutawney Dartfish?  They do dart back into their little holes when they get scared.  Happy bubbling and hope to see you all soon.