I planned to fly a couple of weeks ago -- for the first time after my wreck -- but it didn't work out. I felt fine on the simulator, but was incapable of picking up a glider (bad shoulder). I thought it would be irresponsible to fly.
That day -- when I couldn't pick up the glider-- ?Paul flew the to beach with Ric and played in the surf, and later feasted on seafood. I drove home early and chewed on the idea that I might not be able to?compete in Big Springs. Spitting out my congratulations to Paul felt hard. I know a competition and summer plans don't mean much in the grand scheme of life, but the disappointment tasted bitter.
Well, I still cannot lay on my left side, but?I CAN pick up a glider.? And TODAY I did fly. I was petrified. What a baby I am.?I flew early, like at noon,?because?I wanted to have at least have one landing back at Highland before I took off XC.
The flight?was nothing special. I spent half an hour soaring, carving gentle turns in the softest of lift. I started crying a little when I looked sideways and saw Griffin's wings, so familiar, so beautiful, all red and black against the blue of the sky. I know, I am a huge sap. But you forget how it all feels and looks and smells.
I was petrified again when?I landed. I was afraid?I was high on my approach. My usual confidence faded into a lump in my stomach. Griffin set me down as lightly as she always does, though, with nary a step.
I?gulped a bottle of water and flew again then, for about an hour. I got flushed with everyone else, but before then, I reached 4800 feet and tasted some cooler air. I landed at home once again, and my heart wasn't beating quite so fast as the last time.
I need to shoot a few approaches but my landings are fine and my flying is fine, too. I mean, it could always be finer but it felt good. Paul flew two sides of a triangle, and Ed Below and John Simon, plus Derek joined me for some soaring. Heather, George,?Marlene and Dawson came for some late day flights. Heather looked pretty slick on a Falcon she tried, and I wonder if Dawson soloed tonight.
Life is good.?I am sure Paul will be grateful if I am not such a bitch anymore, too.
Lauren
PS. The ortho doc said?I needed an MRI, but our insurance doesn't cover it (I have a big deductible). I decided that if an activity didn't hurt I would do it, and if it did hurt,?I wouldn't. I figured?I saved $1000 bucks this way, and ordered a 5030 flight instrument. It should be here soon.
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