Tim Returns to the Air

Tim had a few setbacks with his equipment, but he now has them ironed out and I was there to film his return to the air! Brian also came out. This was a calm day in the middle of a windy week. Here's some shots from the field.

Bluebonnets are blooming.


Tim chasing Brian


Tim flying by.


Brian looking straight ahead for a perfect landing.


Notice Tim's slow-moving sign!


Sunset


Not the best photo, but I like it and I'm the boss.

When It Rains...

I haven’t posted much, as usual, I’m busy. I’ve been working on kiting, pulling up the wing, and I’m getting pretty good at it. The next step would be to put the motor on my back and practice kiting with the extra weight. I was making steady progress and was just about ready to call Andy and head down to Galveston to finish my training. I’m even dreaming about getting into the air again.

Then things changed…

I went to the doctor Friday fully expecting them to take my appendix out. I was in pain most of the day and had most of the symptoms. I had to go through a CT scan and they took some blood. Then the doctor came in and changed everything. Did he just say cancer? Something about taking my kidney? Not me, it can’t be true.

It is true. I will have to schedule surgery to remove my kidney in the next few weeks. I’ll have a minimum of several weeks of recovery. It will be done arthroscopically, but it’s still considered a major surgery. I’ll be in the hospital for 3 – 4 days and out of work for awhile after that. Then I’ll have to have my remaining kidney monitored for the rest of my life. The doctor tells me since I’m not over 40 my good kidney will actually grow in size and I shouldn’t have any other problems.

I’m in moderate pain now, but it’s manageable. I don’t want to get it done, but I also want it to be over. The worst part for me will be lying in a bed for so long. I’m so tired…

This is a flying Blog, so how does this affect my flying? Well, at this time I’m not really sure. When I traded for the PPG, I fully intended to carry the motor on my back. I do have a trike though and will probably have to use it at least for awhile. I will only slow down as much as they make me! I fully intend to be in the air again as soon as possible. Depending on when he wants to do the surgery, I may finish my training beforehand. Either way, this is only a temporary setback.

I’ll try to keep the Blog updated with my progress.

-Jack

No News is...

Well, between work, family, and practicing kiting my wing, I haven't had time to update the Blog.
There's been a lot of activity at Old Settler's Park. It's that time of year where the wind seems to always be there, but the guys have squeezed in a few flights, even if some of them were bumpy.

As for me, I'm getting closer. I have Tim to thank for helping me with my kiting. I've been getting out there every time I have a spare moment. My next step is kiting with the motor on my back and then I'm ready for the final training. I can't wait!!

Chris from Southern Skies came for a visit and impressed me with his skills.





Terry flying 'till the sun went down.



Brian after a windy flight.


Bruce



Jim "The King"

Alt was getting tossed around. Funny part was I thought he was goofing off!