I finally got my solo out of the way. Didnt have to work today, so I packed up the gear and my father (for a spotter) and headed for the field. When I got there, the winds were quite gusty (10 to 20 mph). Was a little discouraged as it was really calm when I left the house. We sat around for about 2 hrs and the wind finally died down to a comfortable level for me. Im guessing about 6-8 mph. Wasnt able to read the wind sock as its pretty well trashed. I had 5 flights on the plane (mustang pts) but had never taken off or landed. I had done low fly bys for line up, but that was it. It had been a month since I had flown due to weather, and repair work I had to do after a mid air during my last training session. First take off attempt was quit humorous. All over the run way. I got it stopped and made a second attempt. Moved around a bit, but got it in the air. Winds were pushing the plane around quite a bit, but did lazy 8's and some boxes as I had before. I also had to add a loop and a few barrel rolls. Figured I just as well have some fun before my landing attempt in case it didnt go to well. Finally hit the timer and it was time to land. I lined her up and brought here in on approach and got my first landing with only one bounce. I was a nervous wreck, but did it. Took her back to the pits and fueled her up and prepared for a 2nd flight. The winds came up a bit stronger and I waited for them to die down a bit. Finally, they died down and I taxied her out and was preparing for take off. As I began my take off, a strong cross wind hit and she turned left and headed straight for the grass. It stopped and I hung my head and walked over to the plane to see if any damage had been done. All was good so I went back to the pits to restart and also make a radio adjustment. I dialed in some more rudder throw and took her out again. I ran her up and cleaned her out and headed out on the runway. I throttled up and straight down the runway she went. I was happy to see it go straight down the center and lift off. After a 10 min flight, the wind had again picked up and I had to land. I was nervous, but made my approach. It was crabbing quite a bit, but was still on line for touch down, so I went for it. I greased it. My 2nd landing and it was as smooth as I think anyone could get. It was time to hang it up as the winds were getting quite gusty again, so I figured after 2 successful flights, I would call it a day. Man am I glad to get that out of my way. Its been hard to get help and im still waiting for my club membership to arrive. I wanted to fly and just said to heck with it. If it crashes, it crashes. Im tired of waiting. Maybe not the best thing to do, but I wanna fly and not watch.

Nice job, dude. Congrats! Insane feeling, huh? I can't get enough of it! Good job.

Way to go!!!!!!!!! Don't worry, that smile will start to go away in a few weeks!!!!!!

A solo flight is a great accomplishment and that wins you one genuine RCU ATTABOY (Suitable for framing, wrapping fish, or lining trashcans).

Ken