The diving one scared me a bit, I just finished my certification 2 days ago for open water (18m). It seemed odd to me that you were at 40m on your third dive when basic certification (PADI) required 4 dives. Not sure what it's supposed to take for 40m, but I remember it requiring some special steps (safety stop) if you go that deep. Would you mind sharing a bit more about that particular experience?
I got my basic PADI with only one real dive. (+ a few quick tests). Then I went straight for my advanced PADI, and this was my 2nd dive of my advanced class. It was just me and the instructor, and I think he was breaking the rules, unfortunately. I wasn't asking for it!
I have no idea what the rules were when you did it, but it definitely sounds like a bit of rule bending if they were anything close to what they are today. Either way, I am sure it was a memorable experience!
