Its Been Awhile

So I had no idea I haven't updated this thing since half-way through phase II. I guess I'll have to do a quick recap, give a current update, and try to fill in gaps laterz. So after phase II, I track selected into the T-1 Jayhawk (trainer to fly heavies). It was not my choice at the time, but I am definitely lovin it now. Man I have a lot to catch up on... I'm in an amazing mood right now. I did well on my check ride today (the first of 2 that matter). Over the past few weeks we've been doing "transition" flying the T-1 around the near southeast (Jackson, Memphis, Huntsville, Montgomery) practicing Visual patterns, and gaining an overall feel for the control. It is completely different from the T-6. We don't have any gear to wear (just a headset, very comfortable) can get up to use the bathroom if necessary, because of course we bring snacks and drinks for the long flight, and you have a copilot to little tasks that you feel are below your status. Unfortunately the copilot (your instructor) disagrees. Now we will be starting the Navigation phase. In this phase one student flies to an airport (tomorrow will be Tallahassee) we stop for lunch/dinner, get gas, and the other student flies back. I'm pumped!! We spend so much money at these outbases they pamper us with cheap food and plush amenities hoping we'll tell the other guys to go there as well. Flying has been beautiful lately, with all the thunderstorms popping up, we are constantly rolling around billowing cumulonimbus tops. I remember always looking up at clouds, making pictures out of what I saw, now its 3d and you can explore the other side. Its like skimming really close to a cliff, but never having to worry about crashing. Sometimes when you are passing through thick layers of clouds it looks like a jungle with huge trees and hanging vines. Its all fun and games until one of those trees starts spitting lighting.

Because I fly, I laugh more than other men;

I look up and see more than they.

I know how clouds feel,

What it's like to have the blue in my lap;

To look down on birds...

Who else has seen the unclimbed peaks?

The rainbow's secret?

The real reason birds sing?

Because I fly... I envy no man on earth.