The Simple Things

The author and his friend, Don Rogers, embark on a nostalgic flight to Linden for some legendary pie. Due to stormy weather, they divert to Beiseker Airport where they witness skydivers and reminisce about past adventures. After departing Beiseker, they engage in playful flying maneuvers over a slough before heading back to Kirkby's. The author reflects on the joy of flying and the day’s experiences, cherishing the simple pleasures of aviation.

Travels Beyond Expectations

The narrative follows a flying adventure where the author, despite a fear of flying over water, embarks on a trip with friends to Courtenay, BC. Unexpected events disrupt original plans to Oregon. The journey turns into an eye-opening experience filled with scenic landscapes, personal growth, and cherished memories, ultimately inspiring future adventures.

Desert Flying

Today, I attended the cactus desert fly-in at Casa Grande with friends, exploring backcountry flying and camping essentials. We admired vintage planes, enjoyed formation flying by young pilots, and flew to a desert landing spot. After a scenic day in the air, we celebrated with milkshakes, marking another successful flying adventure.

Blair Field

On October 21, 2017, Blair and Merle Nelson hosted a fly-in event at their private airstrip near Whitecourt to celebrate Merle's cancer recovery. Seventeen planes attended, offering camaraderie and a catered meal. Participants shared stories and appreciated the vintage displays in the spacious hangar, highlighting the event's community spirit and potential for future fundraising.

Milestones

The author reflects on significant milestones in their aviation journey, from their first flight memories to solo lessons and memorable experiences, such as a crash landing and proposing in an airplane. Each pilot's milestones are deeply personal, illustrating the unique enchantment of flight. Celebrating 2000 hours of flying time alongside their wife signifies a cherished moment in their career.

The View from the right seat

Pilots in the club agree that aviation is best enjoyed together. Despite personal health challenges, the author cherished flying hours beside a yellow savage cub and enjoyed a scenic flight in a Cessna 195 to Red Deer with friends. They relished lunch at the Circuit Café after arriving with multiple planes.

CAVU Dreams (2013-07)

The author recounts a flying adventure to rescue seven border collies from Winnipeg, documenting preparations, unexpected challenges, and the flight itself. Despite complications with weather and organization, the mission succeeded, culminating in a joyful arrival at their destination. The dogs are now in foster care awaiting adoption, showcasing the importance of animal rescue.

From the Cockpit (2013-03)

The article discusses the perceptions surrounding ultralight pilots in comparison to those flying larger aircraft. It highlights the joy of low and slow flying while acknowledging a trend toward faster planes among some club members. Ultimately, it emphasizes personal enjoyment and safety in flying, regardless of aircraft size, over societal judgments.