Message-ID: <36E87690.3388@sisna.com>
Date: Thu, 11 Mar 1999 18:06:08 -0800
From: Terrence Robert Weir <SUBMAN7591@sisna.com>
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Subject: 1st Solo Story
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Today at Spokane International (GEG) I soloed for the first time.  The
weather was perfect. Ceiling 3500 winds light and variable.  After 4
times around the pattern my CFI had me do a full stop and fill out the
paperwork, then I was off. I was a little nervous but confident at the
same time.  I verbally went through all of the checklists as though he
were there and I think it helped to hear my voice.  1st solo takeoff was
uneventful...and thrilling. After reading all of the prior solo stories
I expected my little C152 to take off like a rocket but it just climbed
a little better. (Hey there's stuff to see out the right side window). 
I was offered a short approach or extended downwind due to traffic. As I
wasn't in a rush I took the extended downwind and followed a cherokee
in. The second and 3rd were textbook patterns and good landings except
for a slight balloon on the 2nd flare but a decent recovery.  I decided
to do a fourth for kicks and  was diverted to a different runway (which
I don't prefer since it lacks a vasi) and after a right 360 and 4 to 5
mile extended downwind (due to a bunch of jets in a hurry to depart) was
cleared for the turn to base and long final. A nice landing followed and
I taxied back to be congratulated by my CFI, my wife and twin 2 yr old
girls "Daddy fly inna 'fairflane'" Oh so sweet.
I can't wait to go up again but the budget makes me wait till next week.
Reading this group's posts has helped a lot. I especially enjoy reading
about other students progress. It is a great motivator and encouragement
for me.

 Thanks

Terry Weir (.9 PIC yeehaa)
