Flight Review

Well, I hadn't been in the balloon since February (I probably haven't posted about this year's Hudson Hot Air Affair, it was another fun event!) and my last flight review had been in April, 2012, right before I moved from Arkansas, so as of the end of April, I was grounded until I could have a flight review. My friend Ed Chapman said he'd be free for a few weeks while the ground dried out, and he told me he'd be willing to make an early drive to Austin to fly with me. I guess I owe him a favor (maybe more than one!)

Well, last Saturday, we thought the winds might favor us with a flight, but the night before, the forecast told us it would be too windy; not on the surface, but just a little above the ground, so we decided to wait until another day. That day came less than a week later. Friday morning looked to be a beauty, so Ed agreed to come down. Dick Schindler brought his brother-in-law, Gareth to add to my regular crew of Bryan, Brad and Brayden Trimble. Vivian Trimble has yet to join the crew, even though I hear she's an early riser!

We met at my house, put up a pibal and headed to the fairgrounds. The winds aloft were a little quick, but nice and slow with a slight left down low. We flew just over an hour as the sun rose behind us. After flying 8 miles to the northwest, we set the balloon down in a still-muddy (but not too muddy) field. Thank goodness for the many-hands to pack the balloon the 30 or so feet to the road.

It was a great morning, and with the help of many friends I'm now able to fly again! Next weekend, off to see Michael Scott for my annual inspection. I always enjoy seeing my Topeka friends, and I look forward to Bryan joining me on that trip.