#then focus the rest of the session on life skills and logistics and end it with a discussion

[fingertipsmp3]

I’m either doing this completely right or completely wrong and I have no idea which it is

[rocohen20]

He Knew He Fucked Up- Part 6

I hope you enjoy this chapter!

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Series Update, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7

~~~~~

At the summer, right after Emma and Tyler decided to give this marriage a chance, they decided on a game-plan. As a cause of that by the time Emma moved in with Tyler most of the logistical and technical issues had already been taken care of. In Tyler's case the most important parts were to let management know about the marriage and checking with the legal department how his marriage to an American citizen affected his work visa. In addition he and Emma made sure to set up a prenup with their respective lawyers.

That game-plan was efficient and helpful with all the logistical stuff. But it wasn't really helpful with making each of them get over their last relationship (which Tyler was surprised to find out was also because of cheating in Emma's case) and with helping them fall in love with one another.

In that regard they got to an agreement in which first they needed to become friends and only then try the romantic part. Their philosophy in the journey to friendship was to be joined at the hip and do as many things together. They watched movies and TV shows, dud joint meals, and every other activity they could think of. With each activity they tried to find as many talking topics as they possibly could. Just before them starting to forcibly hanging out together Tyler was sure they would fail miserably and give up after one week. But he was surprised to discover it wasn't a total fail. He and Emma had similar taste in movies so they mostly stuck to that. Plus with him helping Emma with the job hunt and her interest to learn about hockey he started to have a sliver of hope that this could actually work.

During the preseason, while Emma got to taste a mock version of the NHL season's schedule, she decided that once a week they would hold a date-night or skype dates for when he was on the road. Tyler had agreed to it, even to Emma's insistence on every week someone else would plan the date. They mostly stuck to easy-going dates where they had plenty of opportunities to talk. Tyler's favorite date was the one he was in charge of- miniature golf. Tyler mostly picked that one because it contained light-natured contest. However, during the game he found out that Emma had some serious golf game. Apparently she was used to golf and miniature golf with her mother.

+++

When the final buzzer was played at Colorado, cementing their three to nothing loss, he was done with the world. He felt like since the start of the season they hadn't really succeeded in playing consistently, too many losing streak-winning steak-losing streak for him to be happy and secure in their play. He hated that feeling. He wanted to find this stride for their team, for their play.

During the flight home he ignored the rest while playing too loud music in his earpieces and staring stoically out the window. It was a night flight so there wasn't much view to look at but it didn't matter to him. Sometime after the departure he felt so frustrated and agitated he couldn't sit steal at his seat. So, he tried to distract himself.

As he tried to think of a distraction he remembered that tomorrow was Emma's turn to plan a date, and he perked right away.  The majority of her dates consisted of staying at home while doing some fun activity, so Tyler tried to guess what they'll be doing this time. Tyler didn't mind them staying at home, plus he wasn't oblivious to the fact that him being a somewhat public figure weirded Emma a bit. The first time Emma saw someone approach him and ask for an autograph she got kind of quiet and weird. Tyler couldn’t blame her for said reaction one bit, him being a professional athlete did have an impact on the relationship and she didn't sign up for it when she accidentally married him.

In addition she told him about her ex, about how he was smart, educated and worked at the same company of hers- in the HR department. In short the complete opposite of Tyler in every shape of form. When she told him about how they got engaged after two years of dating, he kind of feared to hear the rest of the story. Emma already had tears in her eyes so he reminded her that she didn't have to confess to him about what happened to her and her ex. Yet she insisted, mentioning how if they were about to live together she felt obligated to inform him of her damage. Then she continued to tell him about how she caught him cheating on her three months prior to the wedding. Tyler told her about his cheating story only to show her she wasn't alone, but he knew that what he felt wasn't even close to her hurt and betrayal from the person she was about to spent the rest of her life with.

+++

With him returning home so late at night he missed Emma the next morning, with her going to work. It was only her second week working at some tech company he hadn't really heard of before, and they were still at the transition phase where they hadn't aligned their schedules perfectly. It was an off day for Tyler and with only planned plan was for the evening. Tyler took his time and chilled around the house.

Around four pm he heard Emma's voice call out for him. She sounded kind of strange so he hurried to check up on her. Once he saw her he wasn't surprised of her voice. She was carrying lots of begs to the kitchen, to the amount that Tyler was caught starring incredulously.

"Don't just stare at me. There are still a few bags in my car, so go get them".

That did the trick and Tyler hurried to fill out her request. Once Emma finished stocking the fridge and freezer to the brim she was finally available for him to ask "Did you rob a grocery store?"

Tyler still felt one step behind, especially when Emma just shrugged and perkily said "No, I paid for it".

He was still left to stare at her when suddenly a thought occurred to him.

"Are you cooking us a homemade meal?"

Emma mentioned in passing to him once about her love of cooking, and indeed she cooked a few time since moving in. However it was never at that scale. Emma looked at him with a predatory look and replied with "No, I'm not cooing us a meal…"

Tyler felt a bit disappointed, well until he heard the rest of her sentence.

"…You're cooking us a meal".

With that Tyler couldn't resist himself and just burst out laughing. He was so out of it, laughing so hard he was crying and in passing missed Emma's displeased expression. That's why the second he recollected himself she started explaining herself with an undertone of anger.

"Yesterday I had some free time before your game so I went to YouTube. You know what I had in the suggestions?"

Emma looked at him expectedly so he tried to think of an answer that prevented her from getting angrier. Eventually he settled on "A cooking show?"

Emma shook her head disappointedly and Tyler couldn't stop himself from feeling bad, even though he wasn't a magician and couldn't read minds.

"Close but no. I was suggested the new episode of Puck personality".

She stopped once again for Tyler to connect the dots himself. However when he was filmed for the show he did like five or six episode in a row. So he couldn't name you which episode was uploaded now or his answer in said episode. He just decided to stare blankly at Emma until she would feel gracious enough to tell him what he told the makers of the video a few months ago. It did the trick eventually and Emma continued.

"The episode was about what's the best dish you could make. You know what you said?"

It was such an accusing question and he felt bad answering honestly with "I make a mean grilled cheese sandwich".

"Exactly! And this is why we are changing it. A grown man in his twenties needs to know how to make some basic things".

With hearing Emma's plan, and more accurately her determined and excited tone, something inside of him stirred. He tried to sound unaffected and cool while asking "You're going to teach me how to cook?" but he was pretty sure he failed miserably judging by the huge smile that happen to appear on Emma's face.

"You know it. So here's the deal- today's date in going to be a homemade meal which we cook together. I'm going to walk us through each step of the way and you're going to listen. Later we'll of course enjoy eating said meal. However, one cooking session would not be enough, so in addition to date night we're going to have a cooking night. As time would progress you'll be in charge of the meal solely. You accept the deal?"

Tyler waited all of three seconds to agree on it.

+++

At the end of dinner Tyler was stuffed to the brim. Emma let him be in charge of the mash potatoes and the chicken, which wasn't much but it was a start. It was late evening when they were done with the date so Tyler felt comfortable suggesting they'd watch a bit of television. They didn't really focus on the show, mostly trying to compare their schedules and find a proper time for a follow up cooking class. Emma told him that next time he was in charge of the main course. Tyler wasn't that confident in his skills, but he indeed was eager to try.

+++

The off day must've done something good because it led them to a five game winning streak, the biggest they had yet. During that streak he and Emma had a chance for the promised follow up. Emma was nice enough to write him a list of instruction for all the recipes. The main course was some kind of all in one pot so there were high stakes on his shoulders. In the end it turned out he messed up with the seasoning and overcooked it just a bit. It was still edible, just not as good as it could've been.

At the middle of dinner, once Tyler told Emma how he felt guilty for making them eat for the next few days his cooked meals Emma suggested the perfect solution- To invite some guys on the team to have dinner with them. Emma also wanted to make advantage of that setting to get to know the team and their significant others.

+++

After the first meal where he invited the rookies, figuring they'd be desperate enough to company and free meal that they would not have high demands, the rumor of him hosting meals at his house in an attempt to cook got to everyone on the team. After many of the older guys' first-hand experience with Tyler's abysmal cooking abilities, the only reason they booked themselves a night for those dinners (Rads made a sign-up sheet and forwarded them to everyone's mail of the team). Each of them tried to insist on their urge to cheer him on, but he wasn't fooled, it was for the prime chirp material. However Tyler didn't care, in the end of the day there were participants in the dinners and he was proud of himself.

+++

After yet another losing streak they were at New York, playing against the Rangers and the Islanders. They had an off day between the two games so the team went to a fine restaurant for team dinner. Jamie and Tyler ended up sitting side by side, which was fine with Tyler. The team laughed and talked until the food was brought up to the table. Then they spent the next five minutes quietly trying their respective meals. Tyler ordered salmon with rice and a salad, so he was enjoying the fish when from beside him he heard Jamie moaning on his bite from his stake and mash potatoes combo. That wasn't unordinary considering the fact that Jamie was a stake-loving person. What was unexpected was the fact that afterward he told Tyler, loud enough for the rest of the table to hear him as well, how he expected a nice rear stake with mash potatoes on the side on his turn of dinner meal at Tyler's house.

That remark caught him off guard, as of the fact that Jamie didn't sign up for any opening in Rad's signing sheet. However his confusion hadn't bothered anyone else at the table and it set them off for another chirp rant on Tyler's cooking and demands of their own. Tyler was a master of being the bigger man when it came to chirping, so he just laughed right back and proclaimed they needed to thank him for gracing them with his food. Afterwards he immediately turned to Jamie and told him frankly "For you to eat anything at my house you first need to sign up for a meal".

Jamie's cheeks turned red quickly but his smile wasn't affected by the statement. He just shot right back "As your best friend on your team you can't expect me to dine at the fine establishment whose also known as your house with other players of the team".

Tyler, and the rest, just doubled over from the silliness of this comment but he went along with it and told him that a personal reservation would be included at the establishment's log. From there the conversation took a turn for the game they had last night and Tyler happily returned to his meal.

When they finished with the meal some of the team decided to go explore the place a little more. They were a group of eight so they segregated to pairs and set of threes during the walk. Tyler was happy that he and Jamie were still side by side because he felt like it was a good time to ask Jamie about his house hunt.

Originally when Jamie told him why he was moving Tyler wanted to protest. He still believed that eventually Jamie would've returned to his bedroom and for go about the move. Yet he was supportive and not voiced his opinion. He also wanted to apologize for his reaction that faithful day. He was aware for the fact that if he hadn't fled the house and dropped out of the face of the earth Jamie would've been better now.

Tyler stepped out of his contemplation when Jamie started to tell him about the process. Jamie in general liked to be calculating and sure in every decision he made in life, and that decision was no exception. For the rest of the walk he went into a rent about how he still hadn't found what he was looking for, with many examples from houses he checked out. Also every couple of seconds he tipped off his hat and credited his realtor- Joanne.

At the restaurant Jamie may joked while telling everyone that he was Tyler's best friend off the team, yet it was true. Despite what happened in the summer Jamie was still Tyler's best friend and closest friend off the team. And Tyler was Jamie's best friend off the team as well (he was promoted to that position after Jordie's trade). So, Tyler knew the difference between Jamie being nice and professional to Jamie being nice and affectionate. Every time that Jamie would mention something she'd done there would be a soft smile on his face. Tyler knew from past experience that Jamie's "I like her" smile was involuntary so he didn't even bother to refer to it. However he was curious enough to ask "So, are you planning to make a move?"

To that Jamie stopped dead in his tracks, forcing Tyler to stop as well. They stared at each other for a few seconds, until Jamie opened his mouth.

"I literally don't know what you talk about, so no, I'm not planning to make a move or whatever".

Tyler took an assessed look at Jamie, focusing on his weak spot while lying- his shoulders. He saw how tensed they were and realized that Jamie was lying through his teeth. A flare of hurt made him lash out with a "Dude, I know you too well to not recognize when you're lying. If you don't want to make a move or whatever it's fine by me, but not pretend like I'm not aware of when you find someone you like".

When Tyler stopped talking he knew that Jamie deflection bothered him more deeply than he realized. He made a mental note to examine it once he returned home, maybe talking about it with Emma. Jamie apparently felt bad about it because he answered him much honestly this time.

"You're right. I shouldn't try to lie to you. I think that Joanne is intense and a bit scary but also kind of amazing. So I kind of like her, yet she is my realtor and it would be unprofessional to ask her out".

Knowing Jamie's morals and rules he knew there wasn't a point arguing about it. So he went with a different approach.

"Did you already talk with her about selling your own house after you buy the new one?"

He knew he caught Jamie off guard when he got a doubtful "Not yet, I wanted to find a new place first".

Tyler was happy to hear it because then he cheerily told Jamie "You can only use her service with finding a new place. And use another realtor, even one she recommend you of, to sell your current house. That's way once you bought the new house and all the paper work is done you no longer be using her services so you could ask her out".

Once Tyler finished with his suggestion he waited for Jamie's answer. He recognized how Jamie was a bit mind blown by the suggestion, one that was closed for him all this time. Eventually after a long while Jamie hesitantly opened his mouth. Tyler wasn't really eager to hear the answer, so he was quick to butt in.

"It's just a suggestion. You don't have to do something you feel uncomfortable with. However, I wanted you to know that it was nice seeing you happy again. It's been awhile since Julie and you're allowed to be happy. No pressure but think thoroughly about what you're going to do".

Jamie took those words in and just nodded his head contently. Tyler was satisfied with that reaction so he dropped the conversation entirely.    

[wayneooverton]

Teaching Children to Scuba Dive

Getting their kids certified to dive means a lot to many parents, as they can then share a beloved pastime with the whole family. But teaching children to scuba dive is different than teaching adults. How do parents know what to look for when it comes to a children’s instructor? And how should instructors adapt their teaching style to accommodate young learners?

Teaching children to scuba dive: finding an instructor

First and foremost, clear communication between the instructor and parents is critical. Instructors should meet with parents and children before the course begins, or ask parents to attend the beginning of the first class day. If the instructor or dive shop hasn’t arranged a meeting or first-day orientation, ask for one. Communicate via e-mail with your child’s instructor or the shop before the course, clarifying the schedule and what he or she should bring to class. Parents should be able to come to class if they like, sitting on the pool deck or at the back of the classroom. Instructors will debrief class participants, and an additional parental debrief at the end of the day will alleviate concerns.

Parents should also look for instructors who have experience working with children, in scuba or in other situations. Ask for testimonials from previous students and their parents.

The instructor should adapt their mannerisms to a child’s perspective. Simple language and explanations, briefing while sitting in a circle on the pool deck, or even sitting beside participants versus standing over them when they assemble equipment can be useful techniques for relating to younger divers.

How to teach children

Children are generally very enthusiastic in scuba courses, but also have a shorter attention span. Conducting training in smaller segments is a good approach; this keeps it fun, and retention will improve. Consider completing a course over several half days, as opposed to full days. Kids also do well with routine, so keep the structure predictable. For example, meet in the classroom first, then head to the water for the second portion of your time. Keep meeting places consistent and establish expectations.

Take more frequent breaks. Be aware that younger divers may need extra reminders regarding safety issues — keep it light, but make sure they understand the risks involved in our sport and how to stay safe. A child’s understanding of consequences is more limited than an adult’s, but nonetheless, they’ve got to be prepared if something goes wrong.

Instructors must go into more detail when explaining logistics to children as well. You may not have to tell adults to walk on a pool deck because they can slip, but a child may need to be told not to run. If you promise a game or snack break, you must honor that promise.

Buy the right gear

Properly fitting gear is essential when it comes to kids. Smaller masks and fins, appropriately sized BCDs, and smaller mouthpieces on regulators should be available. Children will get cold faster, so exposure gear is a must. A shorter pool session may only require a rash guard, but a well-fitting wetsuit is a better choice, particularly for open-water dives. Smaller tanks, such as 40cf or 60cf, work best if they’re available. These keep the tank weight proportionate to the body size and strength of participants.

As for parents, one of your most important considerations is your child’s comfort level in the water. They needn’t be competitive swimmers to succeed at scuba diving, but basic water skills are essential. Prior swimming lessons and practice or some snorkeling experiences will help prepare a child for scuba skills. Airway control, and even acclimating to the sensation of water on one’s eyes, face, and nose are all developed by spending time in the water. Snorkeling is particularly good for preparation, since the child will have already become accustomed to wearing a mask in the water, and may even have practice clearing a snorkel. It will be easier to focus on the scuba component if the child has other aquatic experiences prior to the course.

Is your child ready to dive?

Another key consideration for parents, aside from physical readiness, is whether or not your child is psychologically prepared to dive. Training agencies set minimum age limits to ensure safety, and take into consideration physiological development and mental ability. But these are just guidelines — some children at the minimum age do very well, and some aren’t ready. Speak honestly with your child and respect their interest or lack thereof. Kids must be the ones who are excited about diving, not you. Be supportive and willing to postpone training if the child doesn’t respond well initially. As a well-prepared instructor, teaching children to scuba dive is a fun, rewarding experience. As well-prepared parents, you can rest assured that your kids were taught by the best and focus on the years of enjoyment that will come from sharing your passion.

By guest blogger Christie Ball

The post Teaching Children to Scuba Dive appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2k32ewq

[mrbobgove]

Teaching Children to Scuba Dive

Getting their kids certified to dive means a lot to many parents, as they can then share a beloved pastime with the whole family. But teaching children to scuba dive is different than teaching adults. How do parents know what to look for when it comes to a children’s instructor? And how should instructors adapt their teaching style to accommodate young learners?

Teaching children to scuba dive: finding an instructor

First and foremost, clear communication between the instructor and parents is critical. Instructors should meet with parents and children before the course begins, or ask parents to attend the beginning of the first class day. If the instructor or dive shop hasn’t arranged a meeting or first-day orientation, ask for one. Communicate via e-mail with your child’s instructor or the shop before the course, clarifying the schedule and what he or she should bring to class. Parents should be able to come to class if they like, sitting on the pool deck or at the back of the classroom. Instructors will debrief class participants, and an additional parental debrief at the end of the day will alleviate concerns.

Parents should also look for instructors who have experience working with children, in scuba or in other situations. Ask for testimonials from previous students and their parents.

The instructor should adapt their mannerisms to a child’s perspective. Simple language and explanations, briefing while sitting in a circle on the pool deck, or even sitting beside participants versus standing over them when they assemble equipment can be useful techniques for relating to younger divers.

How to teach children

Children are generally very enthusiastic in scuba courses, but also have a shorter attention span. Conducting training in smaller segments is a good approach; this keeps it fun, and retention will improve. Consider completing a course over several half days, as opposed to full days. Kids also do well with routine, so keep the structure predictable. For example, meet in the classroom first, then head to the water for the second portion of your time. Keep meeting places consistent and establish expectations.

Take more frequent breaks. Be aware that younger divers may need extra reminders regarding safety issues — keep it light, but make sure they understand the risks involved in our sport and how to stay safe. A child’s understanding of consequences is more limited than an adult’s, but nonetheless, they’ve got to be prepared if something goes wrong.

Instructors must go into more detail when explaining logistics to children as well. You may not have to tell adults to walk on a pool deck because they can slip, but a child may need to be told not to run. If you promise a game or snack break, you must honor that promise.

Buy the right gear

Properly fitting gear is essential when it comes to kids. Smaller masks and fins, appropriately sized BCDs, and smaller mouthpieces on regulators should be available. Children will get cold faster, so exposure gear is a must. A shorter pool session may only require a rash guard, but a well-fitting wetsuit is a better choice, particularly for open-water dives. Smaller tanks, such as 40cf or 60cf, work best if they’re available. These keep the tank weight proportionate to the body size and strength of participants.

As for parents, one of your most important considerations is your child’s comfort level in the water. They needn’t be competitive swimmers to succeed at scuba diving, but basic water skills are essential. Prior swimming lessons and practice or some snorkeling experiences will help prepare a child for scuba skills. Airway control, and even acclimating to the sensation of water on one’s eyes, face, and nose are all developed by spending time in the water. Snorkeling is particularly good for preparation, since the child will have already become accustomed to wearing a mask in the water, and may even have practice clearing a snorkel. It will be easier to focus on the scuba component if the child has other aquatic experiences prior to the course.

Is your child ready to dive?

Another key consideration for parents, aside from physical readiness, is whether or not your child is psychologically prepared to dive. Training agencies set minimum age limits to ensure safety, and take into consideration physiological development and mental ability. But these are just guidelines — some children at the minimum age do very well, and some aren’t ready. Speak honestly with your child and respect their interest or lack thereof. Kids must be the ones who are excited about diving, not you. Be supportive and willing to postpone training if the child doesn’t respond well initially. As a well-prepared instructor, teaching children to scuba dive is a fun, rewarding experience. As well-prepared parents, you can rest assured that your kids were taught by the best and focus on the years of enjoyment that will come from sharing your passion.

By guest blogger Christie Ball

The post Teaching Children to Scuba Dive appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2k32ewq