Christmas at the Old Fort (Fort Parker Flying Field)

Late Fall and Winter time can be some of the best flying days in Texas.  This past weekend our friend Jed Keck hosted us at Fort Parker Flying Field for the day in conjunction with the annual Christmas at the Old Fort celebration at historic Old Fort Parker.  Rachel and I flew the yellow '46 Taylorcraft in from Deer Pasture airfield after having to wait out low ceilings for most of the morning.  When we arrived, Leann was already there with the rest of the kids in the Suburban and also her Mom and Dad had flown in via their '39 Taylorcraft from Tick Hill Airfield.  It was a fun day with an 1800's style visit from Santa, a re-enactment of a Native American-Indian wedding ceremony, a cowboy shootout, black-smithing, glass-blowing, and other period craftsmanship.  This was my second trip to Fort Parker Flying Field.  It was certainly not the last.  In fact, we are now talking about holding a Texas Taylorcraft Fly-in there on March 31, 2012.  In addition, we are looking forward to attending the International Biplane Association's - Old Fort Biplane Music Fest (Fly-in) there on June 2, 2012.

Enjoy these photos taken by Jed Keck.

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Buddy Rides

I think the most gratifying aspect of old airplanes is the opportunities we have to share them with others.  Thanksgiving day at Deer Pasture Airfield was a special time.  God blessed us with beautiful weather, a great time with extended family members enjoying food, and fun stories and spending time with each other.  And after the turkey and stuffing, after the games and laughs, the kitchen was cleared, photos were taken of all the families present... then it was time to go check out things at the Hangar.  My great nieces and great nephews were surprised when they realized I had already done the pre-flight inspection on the Taylorcraft.  At that point... there was nothing left to do but fly!

What a glorious day it was.  For the triplets, Justin, Kailyn, and Shilyn... it was their very first airplane rides.  For their big brother Colton, it was his first time at the controls... to fly himself.  For their Mom and Dad... it was a chance to re-live the memories of flying in the old days with Grandy (My Dad).  For me... I can hardly explain the feeling I had to see the expressions on their faces and to hear their stories at the end of the day.

I flew 12 sorties of Buddy rides... over 2.5 hours.  A light breeze... direct cross-wind.  So fun for me just to practice airwork and landing skills.  But the absolute best is sharing the blessing of flight!

The way God intended man to fly

This is absolutely the finest flying video I have seen.  Thanks to Taylorcraft flier, Jim Brewer, for sharing such wonderful scenes from the Great State of Alaska.  No more words necessary... just enjoy!