Yesterday was one of those days in your life that you add to the "Greatest Days of my Life" list. My oldest daughter and I took our RV6 to the Golden West EAA Fly-In and Airshow. This was her first Airshow.
We left the house about 0530, a quick stop for breakfast, and a 35 minute drive to the airport. We were scheduled to meet up with Rod Bower in near by Visalia (actually where I live, but the airplane is in Porterville). We launched at 0630 for the 0700 meeting in KVIS. As we prepared to depart, as a flight of two, Rod had a minor mechanical problem. After it was determined it was going to take a while to repair, Emily and I decided to head for Marysville on our own. We departed at just after 0720, landing at 0840.
Rod eventually made it to KMRV after he repaired his airplane, and I believe he won some type of award.
Spending the day with my 11 year old. Flying the RV, and taking her to an airshow was just one of those occasions that I'll remember for the rest of my life. We had a great day. Sitting next to the airplane, playing Old Maid (which isn't easy in 25 kt wind), looking at the other airplanes, visiting with fellow RV'rs and future RV'rs. Watching a great airshow, and then getting back in the RV and heading for home. Made it home in 1:15 with 190 kt Ground Speed. 12 hours Hangar door to Hangar door.
She was really mesmerized by all the chatter on the radio as we left. The wind really took a toll on Emily though, her allergies were really bad on the plane ride home and the poor kid was kind of miserable. I climbed up to 9,500 ft, but she started having a problem breathing. She was doing fine, but after we leveled off the lack of oxygen started to aggravate a cough she developed the day before. For obvious reasons, I descended back down to 7,500, and she felt a lot better.
Sorry Em!
The San Joaquin Valley was unusually clear yesterday. I wish I had taken some pictures on the way up, and back. You could see all the way across. From the Sierra's to the coastal ranges. A great day for flying.
You know you're doing right by your kids when they get out the CD's in the airplane and put on Jimmy Buffett. "How bout a little travel'in music Dad?"
Here are a few pictures:
I know you Texas people are going to get all excited when you see these shirts. . . LOL Yea, we tried the Texas thing, four Californians. . . just couldn't assimilate. Hah!
Had to move back.
This is where we tried to stay out of the wind and play cards while we waited for the airshow. It was tough, but good times.
Now the Rock Star part. I saw Dan Checkoway, Randy Lervold, and Paul Rosales. I know they're just guys like us, but to US, they are Rock Stars. I didn't bother them, they were busy getting ready to fly, and I am sure it was a difficult flight, given the wind conditions. But it was cool to be in their midst. Just for the record, I don't usually mix it up with famous people. Even at work, when we do get them on the airplane, just not my style.
The best thing I heard yesterday,
"Dad, this has been the best day ever! When can we go again?" Reno?!
The second best thing I heard, while walking around the booths, one of the representatives of the many LSA vendors said,
"Man, those Van's Air Force caps are everywhere, I see more of those than anything!" I just smiled a smirky smile and kept on walking. . . he obviously needs a ride in the competition. . . eh?
And the third best thing. . .
"442Tango, Norcal Approach, Radar Contact."
Amongst "Rock Stars" and other observations from Golden West. . .
When we were on the ramp lining up? Or, were we still in the grass? I talked to a lot of folks, since I was sitting next to the airplane all day.
at Golden West. Nice Job Guys.
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