The youngest Young Eagle…
Today marked a very special flight. Truly, the youngest Young Eagle I’ve ever introduced to aviation.
My unborn child.
My wife Shannon is pregnant with our baby daughter. Our first child. We’re thrilled, amazed and totally overwhelmed by the gravity of this event.
When I mentioned to Shannon that I was going to go fly this morning, she was eager to join me. We both quickly recognized the “cute” significance that in the truest sense, a third passenger would be joining us for the ride.
I’ll be honest. I think my preflight was more thorough. I inspected the engine gauges more closely during the runup and flight. I scanned more feverishly for an emergency landing spot while circling downtown San Antonio for Shannon to take some aerial photos.
I believe my perspective is being altered.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not suggesting that my flying days are numbered. Shannon and I have always recognized the risks of flying, driving to the airport, cycling…etc. All of life involves risk. It’s how you manage and reduce those risks that counts.
As a new father-in-waiting…the new perspective is that I believe I am going to take safety up another three notches that I wasn’t aware existed.
And you know what…
I’m looking forward to it!
Shannon said,
October 28, 2006 @ 8:37 pm
Beautiful post to sum up a beautiful day. Thanks, again, for the flight and for sharing it with me. Loveya, babe!
Jason said,
October 29, 2006 @ 7:31 am
Wow, congrats guys!!!!!!
RichC said,
October 29, 2006 @ 1:17 pm
Outstanding … now the real question: Did you give ‘Sprout’ the educational preflight talk???? Keep up the great blog and the aviation related (inspiring) posts and PHOTOS! I love them.
RichC
Robert said,
November 3, 2006 @ 8:09 pm
Congratulations! Now you’ll get to experience those “Hallmark” moments like when my baby girl got into daddy’s logbook with a pen in hand and decided to make her own entries.
I still smile every time I open it! Best Wishes to the three of you!
Joey said,
December 1, 2006 @ 5:29 pm
Wow, what a wonderful experience! I must admit, this post really moved me!!
And NOW, I get the be “Silly Uncle Joey” for another offspring from this family! And it is my honor!!!
Joey