Wings in the Wind

My son David, who lives in Kennewick, Washington, came to see us today. He flew himself from Richland, Washington, near where he works, to Camas, Washington, a few miles due east of where we live.

Recently David bought a half partnership in a tidy little Cessna 150. He shares the ownership with a man who is as careful about maintenance and piloting as is David. It is a neat little airplane in splendid condition. An airplane of this sort typically cruises about 100 mph in calm conditions which is what he hoped for today as all indicators suggested clear skies and good weather. It was clear, but for some reason, however, the high pressure system which was supposed to stay off the coast may have crept inland a ways, because fairly brisk winds worked up in the western Columbia Gorge and he had a tailwind westbound and a little bumpiness in the last few minutes. However, the trip was quicker than expected and David arrived in time for us to make it to church before 9:00 AM.

After the services, we met the whole Slack family at Baja Fresh for a leisurely lunch followed by a time of visiting at our house. A few gifts and goodies were swapped, family news was shared, Uncle David was loved on by the nieces, and possible future visits were discussed. Unfortunately, one of the plans for the afternoon had to be cancelled until a future date, as the pesky winds continued and made the prospect of "giving rides" impossible. It just would have been too rough for anyone not accustomed to bouncing around in the sky in choppy air. (Besides, there might not have been enough "barf" bags available.) Maybe next time.

After topping off his tanks at a good price, away David went, eastbound for home, and this time directly into those gusty winds. The return flight took more than an hour longer, the average "over-the-ground" speed was much lower, fighting the headwinds used up a lot more av-gas, and was a much more tiring trip.

We were all glad to see the intrepid flyer during his turn-around on this special cross-country flight. I was especially proud to see my pilot son flying his own pretty aircraft, and deeply regret the diabetes which keeps me from flying too.

Thanks for coming, Son, and thanks to your family for letting you make the trip. It was a real treat to see you, get in a little visiting, and a few hugs all around. I'll pick you up at Grove Field anytime.