Getaway to Gettysburg

Mary and I decided to go tour Gettysburg next week. I am going to take a day off and fly out to spend the day. Yes, it's cold out but we will do the bus tour or a car tour with the CD or rent a guide.

This is on the list of day trips and we figured on beating the crowd. This hop is under 1 hour flight time. I am sure this weekend we will plan out activities to keep us busy. We will post pictures and a write up once we return.

Just some info for the land locked folks. The drive, round trip,5 hours. As noted above we will be under 1 hour (45 minutes)each way and home in time for dinner with no traffic problems.

Ride Em' Cowboy

I needed a flying fix today really bad so I decided the 17-19kt crosswind was not to bad for a short trip to Georgetown for breakfast. Mary and I headed out early to preflight and top off the tanks. It felt great to be back in the left seat. I have not put in 1 minute of flying this month due to the weather and winds.

METAR KILG 231351Z 31025G38KT 10SM CLR 00/M09 A2993

A call to Wilmington tower with information "C"harlie has us underway for a runway 27 departure. Winds now 310* at 19 gusting 24 as we take to the runway. A 40* crosswind not terrible but on roll out that gusting wind really was fighting me to keep my wing level to rotation. Off we go with a slight wiggle waggle and a lot of rudder. Mary says "not fun but straight" as I maintain runway heading. Once at pattern altitude I turn south for Georgetown. Really kicking today with winds at 3000' 41kts. We make our way south now getting a good push with ground speeds showing 151kts (174 mph) on the garmin 300 GPS. Across the C&D canal and heading towards Dover I tune KGED ASOS . Winds 320* at 19G25 . Runway 31 is closed so 4/22 is what's available. I give it some thought and decide with no time in the book this month and a direct crosswind greater then 20kts that breakfast just is not that important.

METAR KGED 231354Z AUTO 32015G27KT 10SM CLR 01/M11 A2992
METAR KGED 231454Z AUTO 34016G24KT 10SM CLR 01/M10 A2994

I decide to turn it around and high tail it home. Ok well not high tailing into the 41kt now headwind but making my way back to KILG. At 15 miles from the south I contact Wilmington tower for full stop with info "C"harlie and acknowledge instructions for left base 32. At 5 miles I call left base and look for traffic inbound on a right base turning final for the same. My call, 679er do not have traffic....after receiving the clear to land I reply, 679er clear for landing runway 32, No. 2.

METAR KILG 231451Z 32023G34KT 290V350 10SM CLR 01/M09 A2997 .

Winds 23 Gusting 34 but a headwind, I am on the numbers, PAPI's looking good and as I cross over runway 1 the wind kicks up and my airspeed takes a dive.....more power, hold it off, a short chirp by the stall horn and then wheels down. Mary says niiice, but that was different then normal. She referred to the burst of throttle at the end and once parked I explained. Our quick return was noted by the tower as I responded with a rodeo cowboy ride for breakfast is just not worth it, they agreed!

Taxi to parking and secure/cover 679er up for her winter slumber until called on once again. I needed that short hop just to run through the checklists and feel the throttle in my hand and connection with 679er as I worked the rudder and yoke to keep us squared away. Another .9 in the book and home safe.

Valentine Ice Storm Warnings

Ice Storm Warning in effect until 10 am EST this morning. Flood Watch in effect from 9 am EST this morning through this evening. Can it get much better?

Freezing rain and sleet. Significant ice coating expected. Windy with highs in the lower 30s. Northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph...becoming northwest this afternoon. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent.

Brrrrr...not much fun in the first state today! Mary and I hope to get some fly time on Monday as we try to complete our beach patrol flight plan. As of this morning the President's day forcast is calling for mostly sunny, highs in the mid 30s.

Scrub Beach Patrol

This morning the plan was to sleep in a bit then head to the airport for a 9am preflight. The plan was to stop at KGED for an early lunch then overfly OXB (maybe stop) then back north to ATR VOR which is located at lewes Delaware, take photo's and head to WWD. From WWD head to KMIV for T&G's then finally back home to KILG.

Mary and I got up on time but must have dragged tail feathers a bit. We hit the Wawa after 9:30(convenience store) for a Chai for Mary and a Chocolate Milk for me, yes of course I grabbed a tastykake koffee cake....who could resist. First strike for the plan is no chai and when Mary informed the person working there the response was "ok". Well DUH.....fill the thing!!! Grrr....Mary passed on the Chai and I went through the line to checkout, which was about 6 deep. I get to the checkout and she says wait a minute and walks away. OK, what's the deal? Ahhh...she returns with manager in tow because she needs change, no biggie. The lady rings me up, double charges me for the choc. milk and charges me for the two dozen eggs off to the side that the guy behind me is buying. Ah...Miss?, I didn't get eggs and there is only one choc milk here. Her response, the eggs aren't yours? (here's your sign) I said no, unless this man would be cooking breakfast for me and the Mrs and I don't think he's going there. He smiles and says nope. The young lady now backs out the eggs and the extra milk but can't figure out my new total. Ok, let's see....milk 1.49 and coffee cake 1.19 I'm thinking 2.68 and out of ten dollars that would be 7.32. The check out chick and her supervisor are stumped. I repeat this "new" math and tell her trust me it's correct. The supervisor says thanks I would have needed pencil and paper. I almost fell over. I said why don't you get rid of that register that tells you what to do and use pencil and paper, you can check folks out and practice the math, have a great day ;)

Finally on the road to the airport. Mary and I pull in next to 679er and I notice the winds have picked up. WX Brief this morning called for winds 250* at 4 kts with winds picking up around 10am and Airmet Tango also called for Moderate turbulence. Metar from this morning's brief, METAR KILG 101251Z 25004KT 10SM CLR M06/M14 A3009.

I exit the truck and make a quick fuel check. Looks good to the tabs and that will be fine for our flight today. As I turn back to walk to the truck the wind really starts to pick up. The preflight brief noted 310* 31 knt tailwind to head south to KGED, not bad 27 minute flight instead of the normal 40 minutes. The home leg would be an hour.....not so good. I still decided to go (at preflight time) but now was second guessing. It's 9:45am and I dial up the AWOS. Report says it's now winds 270* at 16kts. Almost on time to match the brief calling for the change from 1500z to 2100z. I climb back in the truck, discuss with my Bride and make the call for a "no go". Mary agree's and reminds me of our Wilkes-Barre trip in windy conditions. Yes, it's no fun getting beat up for a day of proposed "fun flying". We head out, trip the gate, and exit the parking lot. Of course I second guess and think was I a wuss, should we have launched ? Mary can see the concentration on my face and said it's the right call. I agree even though I want to get back in the air. Take a look at the reports, it was the correct call.

METAR KILG 101451Z 27016KT 10SM CLR M02/M14 A3008
METAR KILG 101551Z 28017KT 10SM CLR M02/M15 A3007
METAR KILG 101651Z 30015G19KT 10SM CLR M01/M14 A3006
METAR KILG 101751Z 29016G21KT 10SM CLR 00/M15 A3004

We decide to head out for breakfast and go pick up her new hat with 679er's tail number on the back and her designated co-pilot status on the front under the embroidered aircraft! She loved the hat and can't wait to wear it to the fly-in on the 17th.

Off to 44N next week with the North East Flyers.

Antino's For breakfast

What a FANTASTIC morning!! Mary and I got to the airport and parked next to the plane. It's been 5 weeks since last time in the air. Our ground crew skills are still sharp. We uncovered, untied and saddled up in good time. My preflight was a bit longer then normal only because I wanted to really go over 679er. A call to Wilmington Ground "Archer 28679 at Red Eagle ready to taxi for VFR departure to Millville with information "T"ango" We were cleared to taxi to r/w 9 at K5. Run up complete and cleared to go we were off to the east.

Light traffic at Millville today as we approached at a 5 mile 45* for left downwind r/w 32. Checking out the wind sock it looked like a decent crosswind but not real strong. The AWOS was out so I was checking out smoke stacks as I turned base to final. Picking up the windsock I now see a tailwind. I was hot and high for my first landing in 5 weeks. I was holding 10' over the runway and trying to loose momentum and decided it was time for a go around. Full power, climbing out first notch of flaps out followed by positive climb and clear obstacles for the last 10* to come out. Ok cleaned up, climbing to 1000' and turning crosswind to get myself squared away. This time I was slower and lower holding it off listening to the stall horn taking advantage of that long runway to re-imprint that landing picture. Down smooth with a slow roll out to turn off for the tie downs at Antino's.

As always a very good breakfast quesadilla (the special of the day)and great service. Mary and I finished and saddled up for home. We had to get back take care of the zoo and get ready to go to my friend Pete's wedding. Departed 28 Millville and called Wilmington 18 miles out heading for the Delaware river. Flanked to our left was the always familiar landmark of the Salem Nuke plant cooling towers. I listened to the ATIS (Automated Terminal Information Service) and made my call...."Wilmington Tower, Archer 28679er 18 to the south east level 2,800, inbound for full stop with information "V"ictor. Again I got a straight in r/w 32 report mid river. We tried to spot the traffic on a one mile left base for 32 cleared to land just ahead of us but never saw it.

This landing was much better, trying to nail a short field. I went through my checks, eventually adding the last notch of flaps and crossed the numbers at 60kts with a flair and chirps. Very nice, I feel much better. As I am rolling out I contact the tower to advise 679er for parking at Red Eagle. I get clear to end of runway and right turn to to taxiway "K"ilo. As I am rolling I question clear to cross 9/27? I was told I cleared you to the end...he sounded ticked. I wanted to double check since he did not mention cross 9/27 as most of the tower folks do. I responded clear to cross 9/27, thank you sir.

Aircraft secure, we head home with 1.2 in the book today. I know, a short hop but I need the flying fix. Hobbs time a bit more then what it takes to get back and forth to Millville but I did not want to move until I had some temp in the oil, I figure time well spent.

Until next time....

Need Some Left Seat Time...

I have not been in the air since December 20th! Between weather and bronchitis I just haven't felt good enough to saddle up. With the bronchitis cleared up and my ears feeling normal I think it's time to get back to flying.

Saturday looks to be Brrrrrrrr.....COLD but somewhat clear. I think I will work on short field takeoff and landings. I am going to plan for a quick hop to Millville for breakfast then off to Cape May (WWD) for a few landings, then north for home at KILG. I don't think my Bride will go with the takeoff/landing plans but if she does decide we will just head to Cape May for a day of strolling through the shops.

Mary and I have been checking out places to Stay in Myrtle Beach, S.C. It looks to be under 4 hours not counting a stop in Williamsburg to do lunch with friends. I am working up a flight plan and checking out all the FBO and Hotel info. It looks like a mid April trip as of now but things can always change.

Scrub Flying W

It looks like Mary and I will have to pass on the Fly-In this weekend. We both have been fighting bronchitis and with the meds and stuffy head I rather not attempt to fly. A lot of aircraft will be in the air and that's not a place for me to be without a clear head on my shoulders. My last count was 76 attendee's and 35 aircraft.

I'll be cooking breakfast for my Bride at home wishing we were there. Look forward to the pictures from the Fly-In. I hope the group has fun!!

North East Group schedule has Sky Acres 44N as the next stop for February and then off to Orange County KMGJ in March.

The Start of Instrument Training

With the holidays completed I decided to begin the King IFR training videos that Mary and Santa tucked under the tree for me. I have read about the many comparisons with all the instructional videos out there but everyone seems to give the nod to King. Yes, they still have that strange humor and they can put you to sleep at times but overall they get a thumbs up.

For my Private Pilot License I studied the Cessna training program that was put together by King. For the "IR" (Instrument rating) I will once again be a sponge and soak up as much as I can with the training set then take my test. My goal is to get that test out of the way then attend a 5 or 10 day course to "finish up" with the air side of the training.

The Instrument Rating - Disc one; En Route Charts, DP's and STARS is completed and I am just getting ready to fire up the second disc in a set of nine. Disc two is labeled "approach charts" and I just can't wait to get to it. I will update on my progress and continue to update the blog with new adventures.

The Valley With A Heart, KWBW

Mary and I planned on a 9am departure this morning but mother nature had other ideas. We arrived at Red Eagle Aviation at 8:15 and strolled through the gates with our vehicle, figuring on keeping warm while we wait for Dassult Falcon Jet to top off our tanks. I completed the preflight as the fuel truck rolled in and gave 679er a drink of 100 LL. I pulled the bird out of the tie down to let the sun shine on the wings and speed the melting process. Mary and I loaded up and I made a quick call to Williamsport to activate our flight plan. We were ready to roll at 9:35 clear of all frost.

The Valley with a Heart, Wilkes-Barre Wyoming Valley was our destination today. Wyoming Valley got that tag back when a flood ravaged the area. On June 23, 1972, tropical storm Agnes swept through the area. In her wake, she left 18 inches of rain, 6 people dead, 25,000 homes nearly destroyed, and $1 billion in damages. The river rose to 40.9 feet, 18.9 feet above flood stage, and 4 feet above the levees that were built after the flood of 1936, which crested at 33 feet. Although 2,278 businesses in Wilkes-Barre were damaged by the 9 feet of water that flooded the square, downtown Wilkes-Barre has been totally revitalized by the new businesses and buildings that have sprung up after the tragedy. I rememebr walking through the area and seeing houses gone, washed away. The devastation was almost unbelieveable....but it was so real. The Valley with a heart vowed to come back and they did. Good hard working folks that care about each other and the place they call home.

Mary and I got kicked to the curb by Philadelphia Approach, "Archer679er call back in twenty minutes,(I'll be half way to WBW in 20, I'm starting to get a complex)I gave the ol' double mic click to acknowledge message received and that we were on our own. Mary and I continued to cruise along at 3500 climbing to 5500 once clear the Class Bravo of PHL. When reaching the Allentown airspace at a point 13 miles east of Reading, PA (KRDG) I called Allentown Approach for Flight Following. Allentown approach gave us a squawk code and we were glad to have the extra eyes with us. Overall great flight, nice and smooth, so smooth my "co-pilot" took a nap. Allentown handed us off to Wilkes-Barre Approach and at 5-8 miles out we had WBW sight so we were turned loose to squawk VFR. I wanted to proceed up the river but approach recommended a heading of 025, which was fine, we entered on a short 45* for downwind 25 (even though I said 22 and then corrected myself) . A nice landing and short taxi to a tie down right in front of the FBO. The gentleman working marshaled me in and set chocks under the nose wheel once shut down. A very nice man, wished us Merry Christmas and Helped Mary off the wing and pointed her to coffee inside. He let us know the rental was there but left so he called to get them back out.....THANKS ED !!


The fun few hours spent with my Aunt & Uncle were well worth the trip. We also made a stop for fresh greens that were arranged to sit on top of my parents headstone. It looked nice with the red ribbon and fresh holly mixed in (My Mom would have liked it, Dad would have tolerated it). It's never easy for me during the Holidays.... I miss them both so much.


We returned the rental and got a ride back to the airport. I completed the pre-flight and then called from the plane for an update to the weather brief. I am going to purchase the smart patch cables so I can plug the phone into my headset and music into Mary's headset. I got the same guy at Williamsport FSS and he remembered me. He said its nice to know as a fairly new pilot that I would make the second call knowing the forecast reports this morning were calling for VFR all day. I laughed and said the call is mighty cheap insurance for an extra look see by qualified folks. He thanked me.


METAR KAVP 201954Z 25009KT 10SM CLR 06/M05 A3030


A call to WBW traffic for taxi, back taxi and departure has us taking off minding noise abatement (following the river)and making a call on unicom to thank the folks at the FBO. A quick flip to WB Approach has flight following activated with a new squawk. A hand off to Allentown followed by Philadelphia and at 15 miles out of Wilmington I cancelled flight following. Wilmington Tower gave me a "report 5 mile final 19" Wooo Hooo, that sure makes it easy, I'm heading 185 and I have the runway in sight. A business jet calls in and is told to enter a left downwind for 19, he then is cleared to land as I report a 5 mile final as instructed. I get "cleared to land 19, no. 2 behind (can't remember what type)jet", I confirm cleared to land 19, no. 2 and have traffic turning final. Second notch of flaps in I watch the jet turn off and continue my decent. Mindfull of wake turbulence I slow myself down and plan my landing. Everything looks good 65 kts short final over the numbers holding solid at 60 kts, sinking flair.....and down on the runway. Very shortfield with a right turn off on t/w kilo that I had to add power to make. I stop beyond the hold short and clean up then taxi to parking, staying on with the tower as requested.

All buttoned up we decide to head out for shrimp and chips (The No.52) at La Tolteca with a few cold ones. It's good to be back home after a fun day flying!!

Breakfast at Antino's (KMIV)

What a beautiful day! Mary and I decided to head out for breakfast at KMIV (Millville, NJ) and enjoy a nice clear crisp start to our day. I must say we have the ground work on Six Seven Niner down to a perfect routine, sort of like dancing with the stars.......well...um...ok not that dramatic but you get the picture. First things first, of course (who thought that saying up anyway?) Off comes the cockpit cover, cowl plugs and chock which Mary then folds and gets ready for storage in the baggage compartment. I am on my way through the pre-flight having called for fuel upon checking the tanks when we walked up to the gal.

Pre flight complete and the tanks topped off we climb aboard and buckle in. I flow through the checklists and dial in ILG's ATIS along with setting up comm 2 for ground and tower. Taxi instructions in hand we are off for run up and departure. "Clear for takeoff runway 9 with a South East departure Archer 679er" and we're off.

Quick flight today with winds 310 at 30 had us in Millville and at our table at Antino's in 30 minutes. Traffic was light at KMIV with everyone doing a nice job on the radio with announcing positions.

We each ordered the special, a quesadilla made up in a floured tortilla with scrambled egg, cheddar cheese, bacon, ham and cut sausage. WOW! good stuff!!! Excellent meal and service as always. Mary and I walk up the flight line and make a stop at Big Sky Aviation. We figured we would check out T shirts and sweat shirts as added Christmas gifts for us both. They didn't have my size and Mary said she would wait until the next trip. We chatted with the folks there and thanked them again for such a nice time last week into KESN (Easton, MD) and our shuttle ride to experience Christmas in St. Michaels.

Tummy's full we saddle up for home. No desire to travel around today instead we just wanted a change of pace for breakfast. Headwinds heading home as I depart runway 32 and head for KILG aiming just right or North of the Salem Cooling towers. A call to ILG announcing "28679er 15 miles South East with Sierra, 2800 level, for full stop". I get a straight in for runway 32, report mid river. That's about as easy as it gets! Feeling pretty good about breaking the 100 hour mark and on short final for landing, I set 679er down nice and smooth, holding it off I actually get back into the air and then add a touch of power to again settle back down smoothly. Very strange, that's a first but I'm sure not a last. Hmmmmm...can I count that as two?

Again the ground team does a fine job buttoning up and we are heading out to visit the in-laws. Great morning, 1.2 in the book and most important my flying fix is good for a few more days!

North East Flyers, KRDG

This morning we headed out to Reading, PA (KRDG) to meet up with the North East Breakfast Group. There had to be at least 30 people that made the run today. Mary and I asked my brother Joe and his wife Janice to join us. They both seemed to have a good time and mixed right in with all the pilots.

We had the chance to catch up with Andrew, Adam, Bob and his wife Dru and.....we got to see Mackenzie, Bob & Dru's daughter who took her first flight toady !! There were so many people to meet and so many names to remember. I'm looking forward to all the photos posted on AOPA forum.

All in all a busy weekend but FUN! 1.6 in the book yesterday and 1.8 today. Special thanks to Reading Approach, Tower and Ground for getting us all in and out so smoothly! Thanks Adam for posting the photos of the group and flight line.

Home from St. Michaels

What a FANTASTIC day !

Mary and I decided to fly to KESN (Easton,MD) and meet up with the group from Big Sky Aviation out of Millville and Cape May, NJ. Special thanks to Beth and Doug for getting the group together and having a very nice shuttle bus waiting to take us into St. Michaels.

Mary and I asked Jo Ann to join us for a day of shopping......yeah, like we had to twist her arm to team those two up to shop ;). This was however, Jo's first trip in a 4 seater. Mary and I had 679er ready when she arrived and just had to wait for the fuel truck to top us off. The Ladies are waiting inside the airplane while I see to the fuel caps and sign off on the fuel ticket. Mary hops out and I perform the "Piper roll" to get into the left seat. Jo seems pretty excited to me as we get ready to roll.

Wilmington Tower clears us to taxi out followed by a cleared for take off r/w 27. Six seven niner jumps off the ground and climbs out seemingly as eager as we are to get to Easton. Flight following is brief as is the trip. I announce my position for Easton traffic at 15, 10 and 5 miles out with a full stop for r/w 22 entering on a right base. I have a visual on one aircraft(Cessna) practicing an engine out and they touch down as I am about ready to turn final. with the high wing away I settle in for a very gentle landing with a short taxi to the Terminal. We three pile out and I lock up the bird after final checks for master and keys. Good to go, as the lineman chocks the nose wheel and directs us to the shuttle awaiting our arrival.

It's a short 12 mile ride to St. Michaels as we pull up just in time for the Christmas parade. The Ladies start to hit the shops as we make our way down one side of the street. I manage to watch some of the parade ducking in and out of the shops trying to keep up with Mary and Jo. The parade had a marching band (pictured in the background of Mary and I)horse and carriages, the Maryland rough Riders horse parade team and vintage cars of all ages including one of my favorites the Roadrunner.

As the parade marches by the ladies continue to knock off stores like a little kid on Christmas day taking out the toy soldiers. One by one they fell, who ships, who does not, ornaments only here, antiques there and last but not least my favorite.....a place to eat.

We made a stop at Oyster Cove for lunch and a break from the cool temps. I had the hot roast beef which I must say was very good. Mary had an oyster sandwich and a cup of soup that she seemed to enjoy and Jo had shrimp salad. While waiting for lunch a young couple maybe 30ish walked up next to the front window where we were seated. The father has a small tray of oysters and Mom and Dad both look to be asking the maybe 4 yr old daughter if she would like to try one. I'm already feeling ill just thinking about her slurping one down. Sure enough daughter slurps one down and thinks it's great. I turn green while Mary and Jo (oyster eaters) tap on the window and give the folks a thumbs up. The little girl just smiled. Mom smiled too but Dad puffed out his chest and gave the thumbs up right back......BLEcccccccch...get the kid some fries will ya'!

We continued shopping and eventually made our way to the Acme market to catch up with the group. Everyone seemed to have a great time. The taxi pulled up and hauled the first portion of the group back to KESN and we asked him to loop back for us, he agreed. In the mean time a second cab from the same company pulled up and we hitched back with him taking on two folks from Millville Smokey and his lovely wife. It was a bit...um...cozy in the front seat as the driver was teased by Smokey and his wife as she continued to stir the pot saying he the driver needed a hug. The drivers looks were priceless ! Good guy and got us back safe.

We said our goodbyes and saddled up for home. An abbreviated preflight complete we called clear prop and six even niner came to life. We taxied out, completed the run up and departed r/w 22. The ladies took some nice shots as I announced and departed the area on the 22 right downwind. It was a nice ride home picking out landmarks and recapping the day. I think Jo had a blast.

I called Wilmington tower and advised having current info along with direction altitude and intentions for a full stop. The tower advises enter left downwind for 27 and call at 3 miles or so (I can't remember). Bridges clearly in view and Mary had picked out our other familiar landmark the cooling towers at Salem. We also got a good look at Fort Delaware pictured on the tiny Island in the Delaware River.

Cleared for landing on r/w 27 I settle in with a nice landing and another quick taxi to our tie down at Red Eagle Aviation. We button up and head home after a fun day. Mary and I can't wait to go back in nice weather in the spring or summer. Flying has really opened up a new world to us both. We have met so many nice people and the opportunity to visit places without all the hassles of driving so many hours has been a blessing. Life is Good....

The "And More" After KESN

Saturday December 9th as noted in my previous post will be a quick fun trip to KESN in Easton, MD followed with grounmd transportation into St. Michaels. The second half of the double header will be Sunday the 10th as we once again saddle up for a quick hop to KRDG in Reading, PA. This trip we will have the company of my brother and sister-in-law. We are going to meet the POA (Pilots of America) December Breakfast group. Looking at the time reservation it will be more like brunch, but who's watching the clock.

After we eat I will check with the rest of our party if they would like to visit the Mid Atlantic Air Museum on the field. I'm thinking the ladies would rather shop but that will be for another day. More to follow whne we get back from the busy weekend.

Flight Plan to KESN and more...

Mary and I received an invitation to join the folks at Big Sky in a trip to St. Michaels on Dec. 9th. Everyone will fly into KESN (Easton, MD) and we will have ground transportation ready and waiting. A bit of history, I started my lessons at Big Sky in Millville, NJ but due to work issues and my instructor needing some time off to heal injuries I made the move to TAS at Brandywine Airport. I still am very fortunate that I get to work with the folks at Big Sky at both KMIV and KWWD while managing projects for the Delaware River and Bay Authority.

Mary asked one of her girlfriends (Joanne) to join us on our trip. According to past trip accounts they have the shopping plans mastered......Hmmmm...I can't even use the ole weight and balance line since they both will eagerly ship packages home, without missing a beat. We're talking professionals here, these ladies know how to get the shopping done.

On to the flight plan. We are scheduling for December 9th to KESN and ground transportation to Christmas in St. Michaels. I think the group is heading over from KMIV around 9am but that will need to be confirmed. I am thinking about getting into Easton around 9am and get secured and ready to roll by the time they start entering the pattern.

Here is a quick look at the AOPA flight plan. We get close to the St. Michaels air space but nothing to worry about. Of course there is always the ADIZ lurking to the west.

Williamsburg-Jamestown (KJGG)

The dates on the photo's are off by one day, they should read 11/10 and 11/11

On The Road

Mary and I made arrangements with our friend Susan for a overnight visit to Williamsburg. One must understand that Susan is addicted to work :) and it's hard to match up schedules. The ladies got all the details squared away and I took care of the flight planning. Friday's wx was looking fantastic so the plan was to depart Wilmington (KILG) by 8am and make a breakfast stop at Georgetown (KGED). The stop over was suggested by Mary in order wait out the morning fog at Williamsburg (KJGG) she figured why not stop for eats at one of our favorite places. The METAR for KGED 101354Z AUTO 29003KT 10SM CLR 16/09 A2997 (for the non-pilots, very little wind blowing from the west northwest and you can see 10 miles.

Our pre-flight and taxi to run up now complete we hold short of 27 at t/w 'M'ike. With a call to the Wilmington Tower to advise 28679 is ready to go, we get a quick response and get rolling. Wow, what a beautiful morning. We depart 27 and climb straight out, reaching 500' above pattern altitude I turn on course south. Once leaving class Delta of Wilmington we're cleared to change frequency and contact Philadelphia Approach. A nice ride along today with Philly at 4500' and a quick hand off to Dover App has us soon descending for Sussex County.

Field in sight and now squawking VFR (transponder set to 1200) I announce position and request airport advisories (wind direction and speed). Runway 22 for a full stop seems to be the ticket in. No traffic as we approach so, as I am east of the field, I announce a straight in final of 3 miles. A nice smooth landing and taxi to the cafe' for some breakfast has us climbing out of the aircraft and heading for a good seat (at the window of course).

Off To KJGG

All loaded up and ready to head to JGG now that the weather has cleared. I decided to hook up the Lowrance 1000 as a backup to the on board equipment (Garmin 300XL). I am still learning the Garmin. With the SBY VOR (Salisbury Navigation Aid) tuned and ID'ed we are on course and talking to Dover Approach.
METAR KJGG 101700Z AUTO 20005KT 10SM CLR 23/12 A3000 RMK AO1

Dover App, hands us off to Patuxent Approach who in turn eventually hands us over to Norfolk Approach. Mary was taking pictures and noting the leg times (times between each check point) as we stayed on heading. A nice tail wind was showing a ground speed of 130 (149 mph) on the Garmin and the same on the Lowrance. The shot on the left with the ships was taken just north of New Point Comfort, if I remember correctly. Mary got a great shot of Point Comfort on the way home. Norfolk Approach was really good, great voice easy to copy and just plain on the ball. A few traffic call outs and some nit wit not talking or squawking in this busy area had everyone looking as jets made their way into Newport News. It was busy out there and I got a reminder for Altitude as I drifted a tad above my assigned level by 150' I acknowledged and got back to 4500' while continuing to look for and confirm traffic.

With the notable bend in the James river pointing the way to JGG I was cut loose to descend at my discretion. A flip flop of the radio to 122.8 and a call to JGG to announce my position with a request for airport advisories has me following the river for 31. I see and hear no traffic so I opt to pass on the overfly and reposition for downwind 31 and instead with full field and patterns in view announce a 3 mile final for 31. With a steady descent and numbers in sight I add the last notch of flaps, bleed off airspeed, listen to the stall horn moan and gently set down on the mains followed by the delay and light touch of the nose wheel. Mary says nice job, very smooth as we roll out for parking.

Unicom comes to life and asks our intentions and I advise we are here for the night and pull up to secure six seven niner in it's designated parking area. We unload and head in to pick up the rental that is waiting and ask for a top off. A few folks are eating at Charley's but we decided to get to Susan's ASAP. We have directions printed out to the hotel and find our way with no problems. The ride was maybe 25 minutes.

Hotel Check In

We arrive at the Hampton Inn, check in completed and secure internet access (for wx briefing and flight plan update) life is good. Mary and I check out our room, I hit the showers since the temps here are a bit warmer then home. I was soaked after securing the plane. We settle in and decide that we should have packed for warmer temps, lessons learned. I reminded Mary that as Bo Boggs once said on the Flights of the Mouse web page, "From this point, if we forgot something, we either do without or buy it when we need it". We decided to "buy it" for a few "lighter" clothes. Well shopping is right up the girls alley so we meet Susan and head out for a quick lunch, key word here is quick.

Lunch Break!

Just across the parking lot from the Hampton is a Pizza Uno Chicago Grill something or other. We are seated and place our orders....insert jeopardy music....Two ice tea's and one glass of water and oh yeah,50 minutes later at the end of my rope I ask for the manager. He finds his way over and I explain (we just get lunch served), the orders are screwed up and my food is lukewarm at best. I explain to the guy there is a problem somewhere either service or the kitchen needs some help but this service stinks. He says he'll comp the meal and it's all his fault. Yeah I think well that's great, fall on the sword another time I only want my food right. It takes everything in me to be nice, but the Bride is proud, I was very well behaved. We finally finished lunch and I asked our waitress for the check. She explains the manager is comping the meal and I explain to her I don't accept free meals, that's not why I complained. I pay the bill and we leave.....grumble grumble...Grrrrr they don't get it.

Time To Shop

Well the ladies are happy as we hit the shops. I pick up a few light shirts and a brown belt since I forgot mine and I am good to go. Yes, the man gets in and out with mission accomplished, the ladies of course must continue. Hey they had fun and I sat out on a bench in the shadow of the shops and would you believe....right on the corner of the left downwind to base turn in the pattern for PHF r/w 7. I sat and enjoyed the nice breeze judging the dive for the runways vs the nice smooth finals. Just as I am thinking life is grand I hear the rumble of jets, multiple jets. In an instant four military jets in formation roll through the base leg of the pattern and continue east south east, ....A great sight and good for the soul. I "think" they may have been involved with the dedication of a Marine museum in Triangle, VA but I'm not positive.

With our shopping fix met we decide to head back and get dressed for the concert at the Ferguson Center. Susan gave us an anniversary gift of tickets to the show to see Gary US Bonds and The Four Tops. Listen to one of their greatest hits..."I Can't Help Myself". We met back at an Irish pub (Keagans)for a very light dinner. Flash fried calamari, crostini's with beef tips, oyster Rockefeller and drinks. I passed on the drinks not knowing what time we were heading out on Saturday, besides I am the designated driver.

Ready for the Show

Off to the show to see Gary US Bonds who did a nice job as the opening act...He really had the place rockin'. Then the Four Tops took the stage.....all the moves, like suits and FANTASTIC music. What hits, what a walk down memory lane, it was really nice. Thanks Susan!

After the show we all decided to head out for desert and coffee. We tried a place near the Hampton Inn but they were closed. We decided to call it a night and turn in. Mary and I walked into the smell of fresh brewed coffee in the lobby so she grabbed a cup and filled a cup with hot water for my English tea, she thinks of everything, even packing the tea I like. We also noticed one of the field hockey team coaches hanging out in the lobby area. No doubt on guard in case any of the high school girls try anything, it was a classic moment.

Mary putzed around with this and that while I decided to turn on the news to get the weather. I was also connecting to the internet to take a look see for myself. We carried Mary's lap top along but decided that we are going to set my lap top up with an AOPA planning connection and all the links we will need from the road, it's much lighter. The internet is up and running and access to the AOPA planner is good to go. I also checked into the club calendar and that worked too.

Finally time to sit back watch some tv and sip on a fresh warm tea. I am beat, so I turn out the lights after channel surfing and pass out. Mary says she wishes she could do the same but I serenaded her with some wood cutting. Yikes, between cutting wood and a bed that was as hard as concrete it's no wonder either of us got much sleep.

Saturday 11/11/06, Time To Head Home

Ahhh...rise and shine to a new day with beautiful weather. We are tempted to extend our stay but instead follow the wx forecast and decided to head out after breakfast. ILG is reporting IFR but clearing out by 1500Z. METAR at JGG calls out the following; 111523Z AUTO 14004KT 10SM CLR 21/14 A2998 RMK AO1. We pack up and head down for check out and bump into a few of the field hockey team members. We teased them about the "posted guard" in the lobby last night and mary said someone was having fun in the early morning hours as noted by all the giggles. Checkout was followed by a short drive to the local Cracker Barrel. We meet Susan, file in and get seated rather quickly. Mary went through the shop while I went outside for a sit on the rockers.

As for the shopping, the weight and balance is not impacted with 200 plus pounds available between the back seats and baggage. Not that that matters, since I was instructed that whatever can't be brought home with us can be shipped to the house...., she's good...real good.

Time for good-byes, which are never easy but we give Susan hugs and let her know we will return in April to see her. We watch Susan pull away in her new town car, I know a piece of my brides heart goes with her. Mary and Susan have been friends for many years (30+) and shared an apartment/condo and a house for a good number of those years.

It's a quiet ride to the airport but we both are happy that the first overnighter was indeed to visit one of OUR best friends. We head west on I-64 for the airport and have no problem finding our way to Six Seven Niner. First order of business is to return the rental so we wander into the terminal and BAM! there it is, as promised the smell of fresh baked bread....oh my God it was awesome. I was tempted to grab a loaf and take it for the ride home but the older gentleman baking didn't look like he would give it up easy.

With the fuel bill paid (top off 14 gallons - that's 7 gph)we uncovered our baby and loaded up the baggage. While performing the preflight I left a sample of skin from a finger and bled all over the tie down ring. I had to use a handi-wipe to wash it and me off (Thank's to Mary for packing that stuff).

A last look back at the terminal with a wave to the gentleman that took care of the counter and we saddle up for home. Winds favoring r/w 13 this morning so I taxi out to run up and then hold short for a cirrus on final. Noise abatement calls for a turn out at 500' to 180 to avoid houses. We depart and turn out then once above pattern and closing in on PHF class Delta I turn to shadow the James River. Confirming squawk code I am on board with Norfolk Approach. We overfly Busch Gardens and Mary snaps a few shots with the zoom. The view is just gorgeous this morning. This view alone is worth the year of lessons to get here. For the folks who don't fly, you have no clue what you are missing.

We cross the York River with the York river bridge on our right then cross the Moblack Bay where Mary gets a shot of the New Point Comfort Lighthouse. From the point we turn towards Accomack, KMFV. Norfolk Approach again is very good, great voice, easy to copy and very accomodating. Approach calls and tells us the restricted area 4006 is cold. I thank him but advise we are enroute to Accomack, Salisbury and Dover for the scenic ride home, he acknowledges with a "have a great trip".

There are a good many sail boats on the Bay today and the usual shipping traffic. As we cross the shoreline we are given a heads up about an aircraft VFR not talking or squawking at or about our altitude approaching at our 9 o' clock. I quickly turn the head and shoulders to my 9 and search, clipping the wind scoop that flips into the pilot side vent window with my elbow cracking the hinge clean off the bracket. GRrrr....Grumble....same traffic now called out at my 12 o'clock and we report do not have traffic in sight. Mary and I are on high alert with see and avoid but can not see this aircraft. Finally a report of traffic NOT a factor.

On past Accomack and heading northward towards home,KILG. The DQO VOR rock solid and a quick peek on each GPS shows our ground speed at 137 Kts or about 160 mph. Not bad, a bit of a tailwind each day, each direction. Mary and I are taking in the sights while maintaining a scan for traffic when she asks what a certain cloud formation looks like. I start to laugh and agree with her that it looks like a rabbit running, no we are not in need of oxygen. Take a look for yourself.

Wait, it gets better. As we continue north and now with Dover Approach we look out over the Delaware Bay and see clouds that indeed look like fish. I did not drink last night and checking the instruments we are at 5500' and level. Okay we may as well go for the whole ball of wax here and go out on a limb and say where there is one fish there is usually a school of fish. You decide.....

Now that we all had our laugh lets look at what we see in the next picture....ok it's easy, it's the Salem nuke plant cooling towers. Ok, this was the easy see and say choice, you all pass.We are less then 20 miles from ILG so when the tower/ground is finished with a clearance we will make contact. Wilmington Tower, Piper 28679er 15 to the south inbound for full stop with "D"elta 3500 level. We are directed to enter the right downwind 14 and report abeam the numbers. I read back the right downwind but I didn't hear all of the "abeam the numbers". Tower repeats and I confirm.

Looking good if we were on final for r/w 1 but we're not so a left turn to a heading of 320 and I am on downwind. As I am about to call the tower I am cleared to land and hold short of 1. They have a Mig landing on r/w 19 just after I land on 14. I touchdown smooth and roll out to a stop well before runway 1 and get instructions to turn off on t/w F. With the after landing checks complete I contact ground for taxi to parking instructions. An easy trip with right turn on F, hold short runway 9, cleared to then turn right on r/w 9 and a left turn on K5 and we are home!

Home Sweet Home

With 28679er safe and secure we wheel our bags to the SUV. Hmmm...it's a bit of a search and rescue as we look for the keys. We finally locate our keys and vow to work out the kinks in the process for the next trip. Time to head home then back out to pick up the Maggie girl so all the family is back together.

First Overnighter....

Yep, planning for our first overnighter. Mary and I have decided to visit our friend Susan in Williamsburg, VA. I confirmed our hotel reservation at the Hampton Inn, booked the car that will be at the airport waiting and cleared the insurance qualifications in the club aircraft by faxing in my log book copies to show the 5+ hours dual in type.

Now on to the fun stuff! I worked up a flight plan on the AOPA planner, plugged in my aircraft info and completed a weight and balance on a excel spreadsheet. Mary and I will be posting our trip journal after our return home. Here is the flight plan as of today.

I decided to steer well clear of the ADIZ and instead fly along the Maryland/Virgina coast of the Chesapeake Bay. I have run both routes and there is no real time saved. We will take a peek at Tangier Island (KTGI) another place we want to visit located in the Bay north west of Accomack(KMFV) and look for the campers at CheeryStone, where some of our friends rent cabins and spend time fishing. A lot of sight seeing and I hope some great photo's. WX is looking very good for both Friday and Saturday.

First Flight...six seven niner

An early start today as I prepared for my initial flight in 28679. I arrived at the airport by 6:30 and completed my pre flight with the exception of sumping the fuel. I ordered fuel and always sump afterwards. Six seven niner took 25 gallons and upon my test found no water.

Clear prop! was the call and 679 comes to life. I tuned in KESN on the Garmin 300 and gezzz do I need to read that book again. I pass on playing with the radio portion and opt for com 2. Atis dialed in and information Bravo noted, we are ready for our taxi out. Our taxi instructions take me to r/w 27 via t/w "k" with a departure from intersection at t/w "m". I bee bop on by a gulfstream (Campbell Soups aircraft) and turn on to kilo. I proceed with my run up and when complete confirm runway 27 intersection at "m" departure with ground, ground confirm's. Ok flip to the tower and I am cleared for takeoff to remain in pattern for T&G's right traffic 27. Four rounds on 27 and then I am directed to enter left downwind for r/w 32, I confirm and turn out to the left and position as required. This tower stuff is a blast, I love the whole radio thing. One round on 32 then directed to enter right downwind for 27 again. I confirm and on departure turn right to enter the right downwind for 27. I needed to make adjustments for the winds today blowing in on 27, but it was good practice for locating ground reference points. Ok final T&G complete my CFI announces our departure to the SW to Easton, MD. Time to get familiar with the GPS and autopilot.

679 was rock solid and very stable, she trimmed out very nice and held heading and altitude with little or no extra work. The auto pilot was cool, always love new toys but I must admit I rather hand fly anyday, it just felt strange. Switching over to ESN traffic I announce my position and intentions. Traffic seemed light and I could have opted for the straight in but I instead positioned for a right base entry to runway 22. That age old discussion how to enter.....Straight in provided the best view of the pattern but I opted to have that extra look see and enter right base. A tad high but with a slight slip I am in holding off the nose much better this time around. Bill, my CFI always reminds me not to flare as high and hold it off as I sink. The Archer tends to feel nose heavy landing and he recommended once in flare add in trim to ease holding it off.

A quick stretch of the legs and a bottle of water has us saddled back up and heading to Wilmington. I call Wilmington tower about 15 out to the southwest and I am told to report 2 mile left base 32. As I get a bit closer the tower asked where I was going (red eagle) and offered runway 9. I stayed with 32 and eventually reported left base. cleared to land and adding a second notch of flaps I turn final. Bill reminded me almost every landing to get on center, I wanted to make the last one a good one. Pretty much on center but rolling out to my left and make correction and as instructed turn right on runway 9 followed by a left on taxiway K5.

With 28679 back home and secured Bill and I talk about the aircraft, flying and my future instrument rating. Some of the things I need to do is order a checklist in the flip format. While the one in the aircraft works, it's way to busy for me. Bill shared some really good tips today and I'll add them to my list of knowledge for those occasions I may need that little bit extra. He also reminded me to stop in and see him at Brandywine, which I will do to take advantage of that 50' wide runway to help keep me "centered".

A nice day to fly, and always great time flying with Bill my CFI. I reminded him that we need to get together for a night out to dinner with the ladies and he agreed. If there is one thing that I have treasured since learning to fly it's the friendships I have made. The Delaware flying Club just opened the door to more adventures and friendships for both Mary and I.