When I make the decision to pull up my wing, I'm making a commitment to being completely in the moment. A lot of things happen at one time. I'm watching the wing come up with my eyes, making sure it’s even and there are no knots or tangles in the lines. I'm feeling the wing come up with my harness, feeling if it’s coming up quickly or slowly or if it’s turning. I have just a few seconds to use all of my senses in this crucial moment.

This day, I made the decision that the wing was good to go, and we could continue the launch and take to the skies.

With a huge smile on my face, I disconnected my two favorite flying passengers and began to fold up the wing. If I had to sum up the morning in one word it would be gratitude. I was grateful for being able to share special experiences like this with Maureen and, that Heidi could be a part of these memories also.

We packed the gear and dog back in the truck to continue our day. Still sleeping in the backseat was Bertu, our four month old Shiloh Shepard puppy. I don’t think he had the faintest idea what the rest of us were up to while we left him to sleep in the truck. He and Heidi have very different personalities and he is much more mellow. He loves people, and wants to run up and kiss everyone he sees. It will be interesting to see as he grows up if he likes trying new things as much as his sister. Either way we will love him the same and I can’t wait to see what fun the four of us will get into this summer.