I knew John had something big planned, but I had no idea what. He found a babysitter, and told me the time on Saturday, but that’s the only information I had. A few days before he told me he needed to know our combined weight. I started thinking hot air balloon or bungee jumping. When I asked him what I should wear and he said, “Just something comfortable. You won’t need a jacket.” I didn’t have a clue. I still didn’t know what it was until we were pulling into a parking lot with a big sign that said “Flight School” for Leading Edge Aviation.

I was really nervous and really excited at the same time. In no time I was in the pilot seat of a four seat Cessna, a single-engine, high wing airplane. I was so surprised by how much of the flying I did myself. Elliot, the flight instructor, told me to pull back on the yolk, and the next thing I knew, we were in the air. I was surprised by how much the slightest turn, push, or pull would move the whole plane. I wonder if it was just me feeling the adjustments, because John said it felt smooth to him. I also thought a small plane like that would be bounced around a lot more, but it was a very smooth ride.

We flew around the valley for about 30 minutes and then brought it back in. Elliot held the yolk to keep the wings steady, but I brought the plane in and landed it myself. He told me I did great and was a complete natural. My comment back to him was that I’m sure he is suppose to say that to everyone.

All in all, it was one of the best experiences of my life. It’s really tempting now to want to get my pilots license, but just a bit impractical. But taking a flying lesson here or there would be a lot of fun. I highly recommended it!