Home At Last!

Just so that nobody ends up sitting on the edge of thier chair...

WE ARE HOME!

The final leg was completed safely late this evening... about 830 local. Although the trip was absolutely wonderful and full of many good things, we are happy to hit our own beds tonight!

Thanks for all your prayers and cheering!

Dayton, Ohio to Galesburg, Ilinois

This morning started off nice as we woke up late in the morning, packed our bags, gassed up our rental vehicles and headed over to Greene County airport to start our journey home. The one thing we were worried about yesterday was wondering if the runway was going to be plowed. Up to 20 inches of snow fell through the Ohio region in this storm, and airports were closed everywhere as crews struggled to clear the runways and roads. Anything that even remotely resembled snow clearing equipment was at a premium... if not impossible to find!

As we pulled into the airport we saw two snowplow vehicles plowing the apron, taxiways, and runways. That's right, those runways were getting plowed and boy were we relieved, some of us even cheered. We still had to do some shoveling around our planes but as soon as that was done it was almost time to go. The airport manager, Retired Colonel Don Smith did his final inspection of the runway and gave us the "Go ahead" to let us the know the airport was officially open and the runway was ready to be taken off from.








A couple of minutes later the flight plans were filed, we had a little briefing and said a quick prayer asking God to give us the strength we needed to push on towards the goal at hand.

All three planes got airborne and it was a fairly fun and relaxing flight as we traveled through the skies to Galesburg, Illinois. The flight took approximately 4 hours of flight time, it was one of the longest legs on the trip, but we made it to our first destination on the journey home.








Once we landed in Galesburg, Illinois we fueled up the planes and realized that everyone was starving. We were debating what to have for dinner and then the airport manager gave us a courtesy car and then a few of us drove into town on the adventure of finding something delicious to eat. We finally found something scrumptious, healthy, and delightful, that's right, "Subway". We ordered the sub of the day which was, "Chicken Breast" and boy was that delicious.

After our delicious dinner we secured the planes and then started planning for our journey and final stretch home. Once the planning, relaxation, and bonding time was done, it was time to call it a night and rest for the day ahead of us. "CANADA we are almost there!"

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.

Almost Ready to Go!

Thanks to the Guys at Green County Airport!

Although snow equipment in Ohio right now is at a premium, and although the snow is wet, sticky and seemingly impossible, the runway is very nearly clear! We are hoping to leave within the hour!

Thanks again to the many of you who have been praying throughout this trip! We are very nearly ready to tackle the final stretch!

"The Great Digout!"

Wow... that sure was some kinda storm!

Somehow, we managed to get ourselves into the middle of what has probably been the biggest blizzard to hit Ohio in over thirty years. Although the initial reports are many and varied, it looks like a total of at least 12 inches has hit the region, and there are places where totals of 16 inches of heavy white snow has been reported!

When we arrived late Thursday evening, Ohio appeared set for spring. From our vantage point high above the rolling terrain below, we saw a quilted patchwork of trees and prairie nearly ready for a season of growth and rejuvenation. The mute browns of the forested areas contrasted nicely with the soft yellows of the corn stubble. Hints that we were over deep, fertile ground! Deep black earth sat ready to plow, and we even spotted a few tractors moving on the backfields of Ohio.

Many hints of the spring to come greeted us on arrival. The temperatures remained reasonably warm, and if one were to look closely, they saw hints of green in the grass surrounding the runway. It even smelled like spring! If one drew a deep breath, the air seemingly held the scent of a "spring rain." It was there, that scent, SPRING; even though the sky was still filled with sunshine and blue.

After disembarking our aircraft, we stretched. As we stretched, it was great to think that spring was on it's way. It was great to hope and to feel and to dream. Warmth upon our skin. Sunshine in our faces. Signs everywhere that spring was near! "Summer," many of us were thinking, "cannot be all that far away!"

As Canadians, each one of us knows that the spring will return without fail. At the same time, however, there are few other people who know of or understand the depths of winter. Between the seasons of warmth, hope, and care freeness, there is also that season of bitter cold. Times where nothing seems to be growing, and where everything appears to be sleeping beneath the an unending blanket of white.

That, however, is the key. It only appears to be sleeping.

As we settled in in Ohio, the spring looked to be a certain promise. Things quickly changed, and turned into something that we did not expect. Snow. And then more Snow. Four inches forecast, then eight, then twelve. Those green blades of grass got buried. The black fields just waiting for the plow were transformed into sheets of white. Literally overnight our hope appeared to be fading. Perhaps the spring was not so near!!!

Nearly everything shut down. Malls, schools, churches. Gas stations. Airports. We were caught in our hotel, with few places to go. However, in typical Canadian fashion, we refused to allow the disappointment of a spring seemingly lost deter us.

A few of us set about exploring. We soon discovered that the Wal-Mart remained open, and we also discovered that a true Canadian Icon stood steadfast through the snow and storm. Much to our surprise, we stumbled upon a Tim's!

As we tumbled out of our vehicle, excited by the prospects of a piece of home, our flag was unfurled and displayed proudly. Time for a photo! Suddenly, a voice came from behind us...

"Hey! You guys are from home! You guys are Canadians! Where are you all from? What on earth brings you here in the middle of a snowstorm to Xenia , Ohio?"

It was the manager of the store, and he greeted us with a warm hearty handshake. We told him of our travels, and he mentioned that there were more Canadians inside. "What could be more Canadian than Tim's in a Blizzard?" He asked us.

Inside, we were greeted by Pat. Pat is someone who hails from the Eastern Coast of Canada... or more correctly, the "Rock." From Newfoundland! She was happy to serve us our "double doubles," and it wasn't long before we were swapping tales of Canadian winters with not only Pat, but a number of the Americans that were there. Many of them had never seen such a storm, and were stunned to hear us regale stories of past blizzards that we have weathered. We shared tips and driving techniques. We spent time telling of how we would build snowmen and create snow angels. We talked about common sense wintery things, like not licking metal, and about using the washroom BEFORE bundling up.

Of course the conversation eventually turned to spring, and to the fact that it always returned. There would be gardens to plant, picnics to attend, and cabins and family to visit. Warmth, we reminded ourselves, was just around the corner. Actually, warmth was found in that little corner that seemed so much like home. Warmth was found with people that knew about home, and with people that could share home with us.

Although the snow around us now is heavy, and although we may not get out of Xenia until late in the afternoon tomorrow, We KNOW that each one of us will be heading home at some point, and we KNOW that the spring will come.

Xenia has been kind enough to allow us a little piece of home. It has also allowed us a piece of the spring that we all know is still to come. Each one of us understands that the snow and cold that we have encountered cannot hold us forever!

We know that spring is not so far away. We have seen the hope of the warmth that will return soon. Home is ahead of us, and that promise and hope of the coming spring remains strong.

Each one of us is pressing towards that hope. Each one of us is pressing towards that goal.

For You are my hope, O Lord GOD;
You are my trust from my youth.
Psalm 71:5

Waiting Out the Blizzard

Silly Weather!

The Weather continues to hold us in Xenia, Ohio. Even as Canadians, we can see that this storm system is a doozy. There are places in and around the region that are reporting up to 15 inches of snow! With more to come! Wow! Nearly everything is shut down and/or canceled. Airplanes are running off the runways in Milwaukee and Columbus! Dayton International has canceled over 40 flights! Cincinnati International is now reporting that they are CLOSED.

Bother!

We have still managed to come up with a few adventures today... and you can look forward to another update later this evening. For those of you who are interested in seeing what we are seeing, you can check out the following links:

http://www.whiotv.com/index.html
http://www.whiotv.com/weather/index.html

Be forewarned, however, it happens to be almost nothing but white!

Day 10: Wright Patterson Air Force Base Museum

This morning we awoke to a slushy Ohio. Apparently the forecast was calling for ten inches of snow! The locals were shocked and it was quite apparent from their driving that they were unaccustomed to our typical Canadian winter weather. After we were up, we headed to the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Museum in two groups...an early group and a late group. The first group arrived at the museum at around nine, while the second group didn't mosey over until closer to noon.

It was to the disappointment of the second group that they learned the museum would be closing at two o'clock due to the weather outside. Needless to say, the second group took a more hasty tour of the museum. After they nearly convinced the museum staff to let them use electric scooters, the second group took off running. Even at high speeds the tour was fascinating. We saw all sorts of early planes, Cold War aircraft, modern fighters, missiles, spacecraft, and more! In the pictures below are the incredible F-22 Raptor, and the SR 71 Blackbird. In addition to the museum displays, the museum also boasted a tour of Air Force One, a colossal Imax theater, and an incredible gift shop. Both groups could have spent more time in the museum. There is a possibility we may visit again tomorrow.



After the museum, we set off in search of food, and a very elusive mall. After receiving conflicting directions from the locals, we at last made it, but not before passing a Tim Horton's! We fully intend to visit it before we leave and check that the service and everything is according to acceptable Canadian standards. In the mall we window shopped, but were disappointed to see that many of the stores were closing already, despite the fact that it was early in the afternoon. We soon learned that it was due to the weather. According to Ohio's system, it was a class 2 blizzard, meaning businesses close early, and citizens are urged not to travel unless necessary. We left the mall and headed over to a restaurant called the Golden Corral. It was a buffet and it was all you could eat. Having worked up quite the appetites, we shamelessly devoured platefuls of food. The food was delicious, and the staff were friendly. While we were at the restaurant we learned that later in the evening the class 2 status of the blizzard would shift to a class 3. This meant that after 8 pm all vehicular travel would be prohibited, and violators would be ticketed! If the same standards were followed in Winnipeg, citizens would basically face mandatory hibernation!

Looking at the photo below, it is quite difficult to imagine that only a few short days ago we were enjoying the Beaches of the Gulf coast! It certainly highlights the amazing variety that North Americans can experience. From white sand and warm temperatures, to white snow and cold! Perhaps this weather can be thought of as a "test run...." assuredly, it is getting us ready for Winnipeg again!

After supper, we returned once again to our economical hotel, the Economy Inn. We vegged out and watched a movie before checking the weather and retiring for the evening. The forecast looked anything but encouraging, with ominous fronts seemingly everywhere! It is very possible we will be spending another day in the wintry wonderland state of Ohio. Until tomorrow, thanks for reading...we'll keep you posted!

He sends out His command to the earth;
His word runs very swiftly.
He gives snow like wool;
He scatters the frost like ashes;
He casts out His hail like morsels;
Who can stand before His cold?
He sends out His word and melts them;
He causes His wind to blow, and the waters flow.
Psalm 147:15-18.

JAARS To Dayton, Ohio

Alphabet Museum


We arose this morning to the sounds of song birds chirping, and the sun blinding our eyes. It was a great morning for flying and you could tell after a night at JAARS and all the aviation talk that everyone was eager to fly. Inspired by the stories of flying that Roger told us last night we quickly had breakfast and headed for the field to prepare our planes. You could tell how JAARS had a huge influence on all of us and personally I think every pilot should spend some time there to help influence their love for flying. After preparing the planes, we went off to see the Alphabet Museum. We spent an hour there learning about all the different languages in the world and how they came about. It was amazing to see where each language originated from and how they have changed over the years to what we know now. We broke for lunch at 12:00 and met up with Nard while eating. Nard told us about some of his stories in the Philipines (and then asked us if we would like to go for a ride in a helicopter. We quickly jumped at the opportunity and headed to the airport. Nard pulled out a R44 Raven from the hanger and fired it up to take us for a ride. The ride was amazing and you could see really see the talent Nard had for flying his helicopter.


R44 Raven
Niels in the left seat with Nard as the pilot in the right seat.
We all had a chance to go for a ride and as soon as all of us had landed we headed to our planes. We departed JAARS amazed by the hospitality of Roger, his wife, Nard, and all the other folks who worked there. Thank you to all of you for the blessings you gave us. We started our journey north crossing over the Appalachians which was really exciting.

PTO over the Appalachians
After three hours in the planes we landed at Greene County Ohio. We fueled up and unloaded our stuff to take to the hotel. After arriving at the hotel we got settled in and headed for dinner at Apple Bees which was very good. We came back to the hotel and quickly got to bed for the day ahead of us is going to be busy. All in all the day was great and we couldn't have asked for a better one. The up coming days are going to be tough because of the long stretch home! So, here are some words of encouragement for my crew:

"GIT R DONE!!!"

"I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8.

Mississippi to North Carolina (JAARS)

"Rise and shine, rise and shine". Today was a great day to wake up early in the morning and have an oatmeal breakfast at 6:30am to get ready to soar the skies once again. We got airborne from Hattiesburg, Mississippi around 7:50am local time and noticed that today's cloud base was at a low altitude. Once we started passing beneath those clouds, we saw the bright blue sky looking down on us as it was asking and ready for us to climb into it. With the joy of formation flying as a flight of three we were able to head to our first destination which was Thomaston, Georigia.In Thomaston, Georgia some of us could hear our bellies growling as we ambushed the vending machines to fill ourselves with food and drinks. One of the nice things about this part of the leg was that as we flew north, we noticed that it got warmer and more sunnier which made it an even more exciting day. After our stop in Georgia it was time to file the flight plans and get ready to fly to our destination... JAARS Townsend airfield, in Waxhaw, North Carolina. Flying along, the weather started improving more and more as the skies just got clearer and clearer. We started closing in on the airfield and then once we landed, we stepped outside and were greeted by quite a few of the JAARS staff.Incase you were wonderging, JAARS stands for: Jungle Aviation and Radio Services. This organization specializes in the delivery of missionaries, Bibles' and translators, and medical relief. What happens at JAARS in Waxhaw is that those interested in being missionary pilot's will go through an intense training program as described by Roger Krezin. Additionally, Roger was a former JAARS pilot and today he gave us a tour of their training base where we got to see the hangar and some of their fleet. One of the exciting things about the tour was when Roger gave us an in-depth tour of the Helio-Courier aircraft.After that exciting tour, Roger took us to our lodging which is where we would be spending the night. About half an hour later it was dinner time and tonight's dinner would be spent at Roger's house on base. Tonight's menu which his wife prepared for us was a delicious meal of taco soup (yum yum yum)! Another guest at dinner was Burt Loewen who is one of the board members at Providence College who coincidentally happened to be at JAARS that day. Roger fascinated us as he shared his stories, experiences, and his passion for mission aviation. To end off the night we we're driven home by Roger where we we're able to fit quite a few people in his truck for a fun ride to our lodging. All in all today was an excellent day and a great taste of what mission aviation is all about!


And it will be said in that day:
Behold, this is our God;
We have waited for Him, and He will save us.
This is the LORD;
We have waited for Him;
We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.
Isaiah 25:9

Day 7: Bullfrogs, Beaches, and HBGers

Today has been quite a relaxed and tourist-y day. As there wasn't any flying planned for today, the wake-up time was officially stated as "whenever you want" and many of us slept passed 10:00. However, the complimentary breakfast in the hotel closed at 10:00! Those who were lucky enough to wake-up the few minutes early feasted on scrambled eggs, sausage, bagels, muffins, waffles, biscuits, and gravy. The guys that slept later went to McDonalds, Wendy's, or Krispy Kreme for breakfast! Hopefully the weight-and-balance won't be out for the next flight!

The next thing on the schedule was laundry. Due to the restrictions on weight in the airplanes each of us were only allowed to bring a certain amount of clothing. Add to that the fact that we worked construction yesterday, almost all of our clothes were dirty.

The laundry machines couldn't quite handle all of our dirt and grime, and caused us some troubles which held us back from the beach for two and a half hours.

The laundry room was only large enough for two of us at a time, so the rest of us went to explore in the neighbourhood. Meandering through WalMart and a few car-dealerships, we walked away with some breakfast for tomorrow, a few free t-shirts and some photos with a sweet car or two (specifically the 2008 Nissan 350Z Nismo Edition).

Some of the guys also came across a humungous bullfrog in a culvert near the WalMart. Ask Adam to hear what kind of sound it made; he imitates it perfectly.

After all the laundry finally got dry, we headed of for the beaches of Gulfport. It seemed that all the beaches in Gulfport were closed and we nearly ended up in Pass Christian again before we found one available to walk on. As we started to walk from our vehicles to the water, we all realized it wasn't anything close to good swimming temperatures.

It was cold and the wind was strong, making the water extra cold. I know what you're thinking - all this way and no one even went swimming in the ocean. If it's any consolation, many of us rolled up our pant-legs and waded in to our knees. That was cold enough!

We also found some very interesting objects on the beach. We found a lot of sand. It was white or a very pale yellow and felt good between the toes. The beach stretched on for what seemed forever. We found seashells, but the tide was coming in, so they were few and far between. We did manage to find enough to bring some home for our loved ones as a souvenir though. We found a few dead jellyfish, but no one was willing to touch them-probably a good idea. It looked like it had been laying there for a while. A few other dead things we found was an otter and numerous fish. We also found some Horseshoe Crabs! Two were alive and one was dead. They were the size of footballs with a plate of armour covering their bodies. They are spry little creatures. Running around and catching them was quite a workout for us. Apparently they can use their tails for protection and fighting too. We couldn't quite figure out if it was poisonous, but it is definitely spikey! It's okay mom, your sons are all in one piece still!

The beach stretched on forever, and when we decided it was time to turn back it took us so long to get to our cars that we arrived a few minutes late at the next place.

This next place we're talking about here is Southeast Aviation. If you are a pilot planning to fly towards southern Mississippi anytime be sure to stop by at Southeast Aviation at KHBG, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. The staff and management - Ronnie, Chip, and Chris - are the nicest and most helpful gentlemen around. Hangars, fuel, and tiedowns all at a great price and a warm southern welcome! Hey, even if your driving, stop by and say hi to them! You'll be glad you did!

The evening was just relaxing. Some of us played a card game, some watched TV and some were on the internet. Tomorrow is going to be a big day of flying as we're waking at 6:00 and are planning to get as far as Waxhaw, North Carolina. We're also losing an hour as we cross a timezone tomorrow.

And so now it's time for bed. Yes, that is Hulk Hogan on the right below.
“And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the LORD and His statutes which I command you today for your good?

Indeed heaven and the highest heavens belong to the LORD your God, also the earth with all that is in it." Deuteronomy 10:12-14.

Day Six: Gulfport, MS - Today we would see the ocean...

We awoke from our comfortable hotel early this morning and had a quick complementary breakfast before driving about half an hour southwest to Pass Christian along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It was nice to see the Ocean but hurricane damage has taken many homes in the area leaving only front steps or foundations of many homes.


This brought us to our mission for the day with MDS (Mennonite Disaster Service). They had about five house projects going and each one was in a different stage. A Pennsylvania group was also out for the week and it was their first day on the job as well. Some of us worked on masonry with the foundations that were built eight feet off the ground for flood protection while others helped with framing or siding.




David's roofing experience came in handy and had no problem finishing off the rest of the shingle work with some help from a few others. Because of the extra tall foundations it was like being on a two story house even though there was only one floor. It is common to use the bottom half of the structure as a garage or storage. Some houses were built up super high like they were on stilts while others lived in mobile units. It seems as though a number of people have decided to situate somewhere else to avoid future hurricane threats altogether as many sites are still vacant.

Neils reminiscing with another private pilot also on his framing crew that day. Interesting that this pilot received his private license before spin recovery training stopped being taught in the United States.





Kyle on a scaffold preparing the windows for siding. It was a nice day for everyone to be working outside and the rain held off until the evening so we all got a nice days work in.






Below: a group of workers for one of the houses - tasks for the day included vinyl siding, roofing ect. Good job holding that flag high for us!


At around four in the afternoon we were led through the area driving past some of the destroyed properties near the coast. The most remarkable part was seeing the numerous fishing trawlers that still sit shipwrecked miles from the coast. We had fun climbing on board and walking through the cabin - surprised to see the com and nav equipment still on board but abandoned on some of the wrecks. From there we trekked back to Gulfport. A few of us dipped in the hot tub and outdoor pool to refresh ourselves and enjoyed the muggy temperatures sharply contrasting our familiar Manitoba winter. Also of interest to us pilots were the airliners fighting their way through the dark haze on their approach into Gulfport. While relaxing in the hot tub a jet roared into sight directly overhead by a few hundred feet - close enough to set off a car alarm nearby! While many guests of the Best Western are likely annoyed by this air traffic we often run out to the balcony to watch the show. Finally we decided to close the day with a nice meal at Lookout 49 - famous for their fine choice in seafood. While catfish is still catfish no matter how you serve it the shrimp was enjoyed by many. Weather is still on our minds as a squall line is currently travelling through Southern Mississippi and it is likely that we will have to stay until Thursday before moving out. Not the worst place to be stuck of course, though our planed stops heading back north will have to be curtailed.

“ Who are these who fly like a cloud, And like doves to their roosts?" Isaiah 60:8

Day Five: Texas to Mississippi

We awoke early to the chirping of some strange Texan variation of a crow drifting in through an open window. Despite ominous weather we made our way to the airport and parted with the hospitable MacLeans.After a couple fun-filled hours of waiting in the aviation aerocenter at Grand Prairie's airport, we finally made the decision to try for Gulfport Mississippi. Winds were fairly strong, but we set off into the skies and shortly later, the "sporty" conditions began improving.
We touched down in Munroe, refueled, and then began the last leg of the day to Gulfport, however the weather decided to change again. Forced to descend in order to maintain visual flight rules, we were unable to complete the entire leg of the trip. We ended up diverting to a small strip called Hattiesburg. Although the airport was literally abandoned at first, we managed to contact the owner of the local flight school and we made arrangements for hangars and vehicles.
Once everything was in order we set off on the final trip of the day, a short drive from Hattiesburg to Gulfport. In Gulfport we located a Best Western and made ourselves comfortable. The weather was warm, and the air was moist with the smell of the ocean. Tomorrow we can look forward to seeing the ocean for the first time on the trip!! All in all, it was an excellent day. The weather was rather cooperative, and we avoided being grounded in Texas for any considerable amount of time. It was another day of fun and safe travels!

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles..." Isaiah 40:31

Not a dull day in Dallas

Canadians associated with American Airlines? That's right! Whether it be the museum, or a sponsor for the Dallas Stars, American Airlines was the theme of the day.


We rose for the day around 7:30 for a hearty pancake breakfast. Then after a prayer and devotional time with our host's the MacLean's, we were then off to make our mark at the C.R. Smith museum as you can see David and our new friend John(with Walter) are doing below.

We wandered around the museum trying not to get into too much trouble, learning about jet engines and the history of American Airlines. We boarded Gate A1 and buckled into our seats to soar above the clouds, barrel rolls, the Golden Gate Bridge.... then the lights of the museum movie theater came on and we took off our seat belts and exited stage right. We raided the gift shop and have a few brothers and cousins of Walter. Aaron also wished that American money denominations were not so similar in color and unwillingly left the cashier at the gift shop a whopping 10 dollar tip.

After lunch at Sonic, even though we weren't scheduled to fly today, we just couldn't help ourselves. A group of us headed out to the airport to fuel the planes as well as take some of our new friends from Dallas for a ride in the circui.... I mean Pattern. A few stayed behind to catch up on some sleep.

After a backwards supper (desert first), we quickly headed to the only piece of ice we could find in Dallas - the hockey game! We "scored" some inexpensive tickets to the Dallas Stars vs. the Nashville Predators. With some loud cheering, we quickly blended in with the Dallas fans and no one was the wiser.


We are all enjoying the warm weather in Dallas. With the windows open all night without a chill and a high of at least 24 Celsius today, we were all quite peachy. After the hockey game, we were able to walk in warmth and enjoy the night life of this Texas city. We arise early tomorrow morning to find what adventures await us....

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:14

Day three, Flying to Texas!

Waiting in Augusta, KS!

Due to a snag, were not able to depart from Augusta, KS this morning. I had to wake up the guys that were still fast asleep at 5:30. After a devotional and briefing for the Pilots In Command, Angela and her grandpa drove us to the small, but nice airport in Augusta.
While waiting, we were lucky and asked the pilot of a Citation CJ2 if we could check out the inside of his jet. Really nice, the aircraft only had 80 hours of flight time!
Finally, at 9:35, after saying goodbye to our new good friend we took off for Grand Prairie, TX.


Dallas's crazy airspace!

Flying through Oklahoma, was pretty much uneventful. Controllers seamed to have a hard time repeating our aircraft's call signs. This is Canadian Warrior: Foxtrot Echo India November, what? Canadian Golf Echo Lima November?


Arriving in the Dallas airspace was a CHALLENGE! We had to be fast, and react quickly and efficiently to where the controller was guiding us. It was a bit like the juggling act that Kyle gave us at the Wycliffe Center later! Walter provided an extra set of eyes for us... he sat and watched carefully, alerting us whenever he saw traffic! A number of Jets and small single engine aircrafts were close enough that it might have caused conflict.

Finally, arriving close to the Grand Prairie airport, south of Dallas, the airspace's controller handed us over to the Grand Prairie tower, who thought one of our aircraft was a helicopter, and he was going to clear them to land on the helipad!!! At the last minute, we were cleared to land on the runway, but unfortunately we were then too high, and had to overshoot the runway and land after a circuit (pattern in the US air vocabulary). We had finally arrived! and it was 22 degrees Celsius! Welcome to Texas!

Wycliffe Center Visit

After a quick lunch and welcome by the MacLean family, we had a guided tour of the Wycliffe Center (SIL Center) were both Mr. and Mrs. MacLean work. We had fun learning about this organization and what they are doing throughout the world. The rest of the day was spent relaxing, doing an acorn war, eating good food, Kelly doing card tricks, guys watching Holgin's Heroes, shooting air-guns in the garage... It's good to be here, and thank ya'll for your prayers.

I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing to You among the nations.
For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens,
And Your truth unto the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
Let Your glory be above all the earth.
Psalm 59:9-11