Thanks for the report. Sounds like you had a pretty good time, despite some weather issues. Sadly, not much you can do about that. Glad you avoided the common novice diver mishaps (they do happen and not always to the novice!) it probably says something about your training and theirs.

Keep on diving, enjoy the lakes and try to keep warm. Wet suit may be OK for the next couple of months, but I suspect the local divers will also be recommending that you go dry. Don't forget to get the appropriate training before jumping in with the dry suit on.

Look forward to hearing more of your adventures.