Peter's New Friend

We've really enjoyed our time here in the Keys. We've seen a lot of cool things, had a lot of great experiences, and met a lot of cool people. Today was no exception. It started out like many others we've had - up early and leaving the canal for a long day of octopus tagging/releasing and such. We got to our site and a very nasty algal bloom made the vis terrible at best. Peter, wanting to lead by example, suggested that we simply make the best of it and see what may come. I quickly decided to shrug off the bad vis and make haste at what this wonderful day had in store. We got our gear together, jumped in the water, and set off for the day's new adventure. Now, anyone who knows Pete very well knows of his innate ability to make new friends wherever he goes, some human - some not (eg. dolphins, sea turtles, cormorants, etc.). While wandering around aimlessly trying to find octopus dens in the pea soup, I noticed Peter near my position. Underneath him was a new friend of the day, a remora. This was a good friend. Despite the accidental flogging and kicking Pete gave it, the remora turned the other cheek (or rather the other operculum). Pete had yet again made a new friend. This new friend found a strange connection with Pete and chose to stick around for the entire trip. Pete really seemed to enjoy the company. Man, that guy really has a knack!