Here is where you can read what others have had to say about either this site or about ultralight flying. The logbook has now grown into five volumes and each is filled with comments that are really rather remarkable. Thank you, all.

If you read the entire journal you will understand the pleasure I take in telling you that I have started flying again. And if you're interested in the details, I have started to chronicle them in what I now call Chapter Two.

Should you care to add your own entry to this logbook, remember to then reload this page in your browser to see your entry on top of the list.

[   Volume 4   |  Volume 3   |  Volume 2   |  Volume 1   |  Add Entry   ]

Who: Al McCree
Where: Brentwood, TN USA
When: Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 08:48:34 (PDT)
Email: almccree@militarymusic.com
Website: www.militarymusic.com
Comments: Jim, What a wonderful story. As an old pilot, haven't flown in 20 years, it makes be want to do it all again. Al

Who: J. McKay
Where: Vienna, VA USA
When: Friday, April 11, 2008 at 13:16:44 (PDT)
Comments: My apologies to anyone that tried to leave a comment during the past 2 years... This guestbook was a spam target and it got so ugly I just disabled the thing. Hopefully it will now operate as intended. Thanks again to all who have left their comments - I wish you calm winds. -JMc

Who: Guy Christophe
Where: Guatemala city, Guatemala USA
When: Monday, May 22, 2006 at 20:25:18 (PDT)
Email: ultralightrides@hotmail.com
Comments: I fly a Quicksilver MXII along the beaches here giving rides and log about 300 hours a year. Problem, fuel prices here are very high and my Rotax engine no one seems to be able to work on. Semi-sollution and this is where i need help, we have GEO-Metro Suzuki engines down here which i can buy for $350.00 conversion is either on top with a B-box or as some have suggested by lowering the center of gravity, leaving the prop where it is now and placing the motor behind the seat and working with a pulley system and 4 belds and leaving the prop where it is now, will have more power, less fuel consumption, tbo will go up tremendeously and any car mechanic can overhaul this engine in a weekend. Any sensible suggestions- Thank you.

Who: Andrew Slaski
Where: Brandon, MS USA
When: Monday, May 01, 2006 at 18:02:42 (PDT)
Email: andrewslaski@yahoo.com
Comments: I enjoyed your site very much. You are very gifted in being able to document the experience in a way that brings this sort of flying to life for everyone. I have had a similar experience with building and flying a KOLB Firestar and later a Challenger II. After logging about 600 hours since 1990, I still enjoy the flying experience, especially sharing it with friends.

Who: Dana
Where: , CT USA
When: Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 16:12:03 (PDT)
Website: www.parafan.com
Comments: Charles, Mats, you can't get an ultralight or microlight license in the US because there is no such thing... no license is required to fly an ultralight in the US.

Who: Mats Gullvik
Where: Orlando, Florida USA
When: Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 14:55:30 (PDT)
Email: mgullvik@frisurf.no
Comments: Hi, I will be moving to Orlando, FL in two months - and I'm looking into getting my Ultralight Pilote lisence there. Do any of you know of a school in the Orlando area that offer this? I hope you can help me. Best regards, Mats Gullvik

Who: Charles Roscoe
Where: Ashford - Kent - UK, Kent UK
When: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 13:28:48 (PST)
Email: carlmauser01@aol.com
Comments: Hi, Colleague and I based in the UK would like to obtain a Microlight flying licencse in the USA as apposed to N.Z. Could anyone recommend a club in the USA who offers reasonable prices against UK prices for the 40hrs required to train and obtain our required license. Regards Charles Murray-Roscoe

Who: Stephen Pierce
Where: Gilford, NH USA
When: Sunday, March 19, 2006 at 18:47:46 (PST)
Email: oneoff21@metrocast.net
Comments: I don't know if there would be any interest in what I have. We are trying to settle my late uncles estate and he had just about finished his Kolb Firestar II Ultralight before passing. It was never flown but all it needs is the final rigging and dash/windscreen installed. It has a Rotac Oil Injected engine with three blade prop EIF inst pkg. We will let this plane go for short $$$ Please call Steve @603-387-3554

Who: Ben Avivi
Where: Wimington, NC USA
When: Friday, March 03, 2006 at 12:54:01 (PST)
Email: benavivi@gmail.com
Comments: I really enjoyed your website, I've always dreamed of flying, and seeing the excitement and life through your eyes has truly inspired me to seek out UL options as I could never afford a plane. Thanks for sharing and doing it so eloquently. Hope you get back to flying soon. Ben

Who: Big Al
Where: Barrie, Ontario Canada
When: Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 11:47:03 (PST)
Email: alexstockford@rogers.com
Comments: COOL!

Who: GERRY COUCH
Where: MIAMI, FL USA
When: Thursday, February 09, 2006 at 08:26:25 (PST)
Email: GERRYCOUCH@aol.com
Comments: I am moving to Jackson Wyoming for the summer and would like to take my Super Drifter ultralight with me,I have been flying my plane for two years and am a basic flying instructer,could anyone tell me if there is a launch site or airport I can operate from,I'd be very gratefull. Gerry

Who: Eduardo Goerl
Where: Falls Church, VA USA
When: Monday, February 06, 2006 at 17:19:45 (PST)
Email: dudugoerl@hotmail.com
Comments: Hi Jim This is Eduardo, first of all I would like to tell you that I really like your website and i wish someday i'll be able to tell the same life history. I don't know in wich field or airport do you fly nowadays, but I would really aprecciate if someday i could see you flying.I live in the lee highway near to the gallows road, if some of these days you go flying and you think that it would be possible for me to go there and see, please, just send me an short mail telling the place and the time that I would do my best to be there. thanks,and congratulations for the website and your willingness to achieve your personal goal

Who: Joseph Wolf
Where: Kfar-Saba, ISRAEL
When: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 at 06:06:29 (PST)
Comments: wish i could fly to.

Who: Eugene Anderson
Where: Clovis, NM USA
When: Monday, January 16, 2006 at 10:06:44 (PST)
Email: eugeneanderson2000@yahoo.com
Comments: Hi, I am a proud owner of a Quicksilver MX and a J4 sportster ultralights. I live in Clovis NM, we have great expansions of land to fly over, no water. I congratulate you for your interesting and informative web site, thanks for sharing.

Who: Bob Klein
Where: Belgrade, Maine USA
When: Sunday, January 08, 2006 at 19:30:41 (PST)
Email: seahunter2@hotmail.com
Comments: In 1987 while on vacation in Mexico, I saw a 2 place UL on pontoons. I picked up some info on them, but have sence misplaced it. I don't know if the company even exists anymore. Could someone please e-mail me some info on purchassing one of these, or possibly a website where I can find out more about them?? I would REALLY like to get back into flying again!! Thanks.

Who: Joe Geist
Where: Richboro, PA USA
When: Monday, December 26, 2005 at 08:47:49 (PST)
Email: hometownZ@msn.com
Comments: I have been considering flying once again. Years ago before my children were born I had taken flying lessons. It all started out witht he love of sail planes and mover to powered flight. I show a show on TV involving ultralights and well I guess that did it because here I am writing you this note. I have been searching for a place whewre I can take lessons but there doesn't seen to be anyplace in my area or close enough to drive to, take a lesson and return home again. Your story is inspiring and has again feed the desire to get up in the air so many you can give a few pointers regarding where to secure lessons, possible meet and discuss ultralights and there purchase, etc. The photo you have attached to the site are fantastic. Anyway, I hope there is some way for you to steer me in the right directions. Thanks, Joe Geist

Who: colonel Monzer Ayoubi
Where: beirut, lebanon
When: Monday, December 19, 2005 at 09:17:40 (PST)
Email: colonel_alpha@hotmail.com
Comments: logbook sites very interesting

Who: Jeff
Where: Albuquerque, NM USA
When: Monday, October 24, 2005 at 19:15:50 (PDT)
Email: jeff_trike at comcast dot net
Website: www.jeffsflightlog.com
Comments: Jim, I stumbled across you website when I was Googling for my own, to see if how someone else would find it. I really enjoyed reading your pages. I started to get into triking in 2003, after a 11 year haitus from hanggliding. Why did I give it up? My reasons may be similar to yours, basically kids and dogs take up a lot of time. And hanggliding takes up a lot of time, most of not flying. After 11 years I rediscovered flying and love triking because I can fly at dawn and get home before lunch and still have time for my teenaged kids and dogs. Check out my website, www.jeffsflightlog.com. It is not as flashy as yours, but there is a lot in there. I really enjoyed yours because I am tired of my stories, its nice to read someone elses. My email is jeff_trike at comcast dot net. (slightly encrypted to hide from webcrawlers) jeff

Who: David
Where: , CA USA
When: Monday, October 17, 2005 at 11:27:05 (PDT)
Comments: Really outstanding website you have here. I've been lurking on ultralights for a few months now and your story may have just pushed me over the top. Great photos and story-telling. Well done!

Who: Jim Gottschalk
Where: HIGHLANDS RANCH, CO USA
When: Sunday, August 28, 2005 at 21:56:05 (PDT)
Email: jim.gottschalk@comcast.net
Website: http://reserveaplane.com
Comments: Looking for ultralight inspiration, I just searched for, found and viewed your site from start to finish again. Back in 1998, you inspired me to build and fly my own trike (a South African Raptor), right there in Virginia. Although I don't spent much time in it anymore due to family demands, flying the trike has always been about the most fun I've ever had. I am inspired once again, only this time to teach others (and maybe to try my hand at capturing some photos of all this fun). Thanks Jim, for a truly great website.

Who: Melaine
Where: , Washington USA
When: Sunday, August 07, 2005 at 16:36:07 (PDT)
Comments: I completely understood how many of you feel when reading these entries. Have you ever had an experience where you knew you were "home" - Yesterday I was at a skydiving hanger (took my daughter to jump since I am too chicken at this point myself) and was given a long ride on an ultra light. Completely unplanned and had never seen one before. This WAS love at first flight!! I need and want one of these!!! It is all I can think about. These machines are motorcycles with wings! How do I even begin to learn to fly one, let alone purchase one?

Who: Kevin B
Where: , CA usa
When: Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 13:47:04 (PDT)
Email: kevin@sportplanetv.com
Website: www.sportplanetv.com
Comments: Hello All, We are currently putting together a Quicksilver MXL Sport II as a project plane. With a very small budget we cannot afford the rest of the parts we need. Many people have donated parts, but we still need a few more. If you know anyone or have any parts hanging around you could spare, we could sure use the help. Below is a list of parts we still need. Thank You very much! Quicksilver MXL Sport II Parts still needed (2) 40179 Upper tail boom assembly (1) 40172 Tail mount tube (2) 40421 Lower tail boom tube (1) 41150 Tail skid (8) 20080 I-75 Channels (2) 20050 Leading edge att. channel (2) 20065 Trailing edge att. channel (1) 45681 Aft kingpost channel (1) 45470 1" aluminum fork (seat mount to root tube) (8) 20090 1 1/4 Channel (1) 20138 ??? Adjustable top fit for aft kingpost (1) 42002 Root tube bellcrank (2) 20331 Shackle for lower flying wires (6) 20441 1 3/4 aluminum tube conn. (8) 20442 1 1/8 aluminum tube conn. (18) 71001 aileron strut tip forward (18) 71002 aileron strut tip rear (2) 71018 Aileron control arm (2) 45836 engine mount angle (2) 60267 engine mount spacer plate (1) 60269 upper engine mount plate (1) 60269 upper engine mount plate

Who: William Behrend
Where: , USA
When: Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at 21:01:48 (PDT)
Email: maudepot@peoplepc.com
Comments: I put together one of the first Weedhoppers in the Stateof Iowa in 1980.I and one other guy worked on our own ignition and carb systems that worked very well. By 1987 I logged more than 1200 hrs flying time mostly year round. The Chotia engine came in a box in pieces and needed final polishing porting and assembly. The first thing I did was change the cylinder head cap screws to double threaded studs permanently installed in the engine case. This allowed frequent removal and regasketing of the head. I had never so much as sat in an airplane until starting to learn to fly this Weedhopper. I have heard a lot of negative comments about Weedhoppers but I think most guys didn't do the basics. I last flew this in 1995 with original fabric. Once a season I hand rubbed Armoral in the fabric to help cut static and sun damage. Had it not been for John Chotia I never would have realized a life long dream....

Who: Jeff Gerhart
Where: Mansfield, Ohio USA
When: Saturday, July 16, 2005 at 06:35:40 (PDT)
Email: jgerhart@zoominternet.net
Comments: Hello all, Got out of flying in the last 3 years and looking to get another plane now. Started with an Eagle XL years ago and loved every flight. Since then became a BFI and trained for several years. After flying the Eagle I never wanted to go back to the larger planes. Ultrlights are just pure pleasure to fly. Good Flying!

Who: Doyle Batey
Where: Bakersfield, Ca USA
When: Friday, July 15, 2005 at 13:05:19 (PDT)
Email: dbatey@inergyservices.com
Comments: I am a weedhopper driver with about 100 hrs. I have not flown in three years due to a engine failure after take off with the good old Chotie 460. Minor damage to me and the weedhopper did not fair so well. I bought 2 used weedhoppers to re build. Have not doen any thing so far. I would like to fly again but am a little skidish. Any help on taking that frist step again?

Who: adam
Where: edmonton, alberta canada
When: Tuesday, July 05, 2005 at 20:11:31 (PDT)
Email: a_giesbrecht1@hotmail.com
Comments: beautiful site. i'm a commercial pilot but quite flying due to night blindness. now i just fly ultralight aircraft. i have a weedhopper now and have truly began to enjoy flying for the first time. thank-you for brining this expirence to the world!

Who: Sam Coons
Where: Gainesville, FL USA
When: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 19:47:42 (PDT)
Email: swcoons@bellsouth.net
Comments: Tremendous, inspiring story!!! Thanks for sharing that with everyone. I hope to have the same experience one day. Take care, Sam

Who: Emeka Mgbada
Where: california, USA
When: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 07:57:58 (PDT)
Email: mgbada@mgbada.com
Website: nil
Comments: my mx was most wonderful and i am telling fellow air users to stay clear as i will soon be lunch on air

Who: Wes Wells
Where: Zephyrhills, Fl. USA
When: Saturday, May 21, 2005 at 05:16:54 (PDT)
Email: wisnerwh@juno.com
Comments: I have had other planes but my MX was the most fun.I bought it used for $2000. The engine did not run but all it needed was tohave the carbuetor cleaned.

Who: Sean D. Scott
Where: Linden, NC USA
When: Friday, May 20, 2005 at 08:29:24 (PDT)
Email: seanscott@aol.com
Website: www.scottstrikecenter.com
Comments: I am a t-5 paraplegic from a gunshot wound since 1980. Been flying since 98, Am a Triker (BFI) now with over 400 hours! You may have read a previous post I made when I started flying. Now I sell trikes and teach people how to fly. Check out my website I made for disabled pilot. http://flightability.bizland.com It is a list of disabled pilots and links to their websites and what they fly. FLY SAFE! Sean

Who: Benny Bee
Where: Jackson, MS USA
When: Sunday, May 08, 2005 at 10:02:11 (PDT)
Email: benny_bee-01@yahoo.com
Comments: What a great story! Feels like i lived those four years with guys at the field! I believe i am sold on ultralights.Going to look seriously in to it. Have a question however if you please respond.How much risk is involved in Ultralights?WHat if it dead-stick?:->

Who: John Anderson
Where: Canton, Michigan USA
When: Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 00:47:42 (PDT)
Email: John@harsdale.st
Comments: Have you ever thought of trying Gyros ??

Who: Danie Brynard
Where: Pretoria, South Afri SA
When: Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 03:03:26 (PST)
Email: danie.brynard@kentron.co.za
Comments: Very nice web site ! Was interesting to read how you progressed from the old and slow 3-axis to the Aquilla ! :-) AND I was also instucted by Steven Roe ! He is just a great guy. Regards, Danie zs6awk

Who: ROBERT BRUNSON
Where: MISSION VIEJO, CA USA
When: Monday, March 21, 2005 at 22:39:28 (PST)
Email: FLY-1SAIL-2@COX.NET
Comments: I'm retired corporate pilot bying a UL and retireng to M.B S.C. Whear is the best place to find used UL for sail?

Who: John Grammer
Where: Clarksville , IN USA
When: Monday, March 07, 2005 at 22:06:34 (PST)
Email: j-grammer@insightbb.com
Website: http://home.insightbb.com/~jghawk/wsb/html/view.cg
Comments: You have a great site. I wish more people had the link to it especially for the new people. For those who have never tasted the freedom of ultralight flying there is nothing like it.The freedom of flight and to be to be in command of a machine that slips the bonds of earth and you bring it safely back to its nest.. There is nothing like it. Then to think that you can own your airplane at the same rate of a motorcycle. You wonder why the guys have smiles on their faces in all the pictures. Oh yeah, there are a few ladies that I know are just as hard driven as the guys are...you just have to try it. Find a club and a instructor near you. John Grammer, President Scottsburg Aero Club USUA 167

Who: Chase
Where: , Texas USA
When: Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 06:03:41 (PST)
Comments: Spencer William reminds me of me. I started with models as a pre-teen, and became an "airport bum" at about 13. For an energetic boy, I recommend spending time at the flying field and getting to know the people in the sport. I guarantee there are lots of ultralights near L.A. - dig out the telephone book, or look them up online to find out where to go. I started out washing planes, sweeping hangars, refueling, etc. An old man at the airport needed help and I was willing to work for free. I made friends and was able to learn to fly for free. I soloed in a Cessna at age 16 and received my private certificate at 17. Now I have owned 5 airplanes, am building another in my living room, and have more than 4000 hours including helicopters. Just go!

Who: Spencer William
Where: L.A San Fernando, CA USA
When: Monday, February 21, 2005 at 10:43:55 (PST)
Email: BlUe CoLLar55@aol.com
Comments: I am a twelve year old r/c pilot and I am interested in taking training to become a pilot of ultralight. Where can I buy an Ultralight aircraft that is used? Or even a really cheap new ultralight aircraft. Do I need a lisence to fly Ultralight? Ultralight isn't very popular in L.A. Can a boy fly an Ultralight at an age of 12? Also what is the difference between microlight and Ultralight?

Who: steve
Where: new york, ny USA
When: Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 20:47:26 (PST)
Email: steve896@aol.com
Website: na
Comments: After hundreds of hours of flying cessna single engine aircraft and a few in a twin engine piper seneca. I have been smitten with the Ultra Light fever.The Weedhopper ultralight has gotten under my skin! Has anyone flown a WeedHopper? What do you think of it? Is an older Weedhopper(80's with 377) worth looking into ? Please reply, Steve

Who: Tim Parker
Where: Menan, Idaho USA
When: Monday, February 07, 2005 at 21:42:11 (PST)
Email: Reno_pilot@yahoo.com
Comments: I took the "Journal Tour" all I can say is !!!WOW!!! absolutely stunning photographs with the remarkable story. i too am new to ultralighting and can only hope that my future experiences are as life enrichening. A true thanks for a wonderful story

Who: charlie angell
Where: babbitt, mn. USA
When: Thursday, January 27, 2005 at 23:38:30 (PST)
Email: angell@rangenet.com
Website: microsoft internet explorer
Comments: Hey guy`s good too here from other pilot`s that fly UL`s!Tough to do in jan. in mn.w/ a weedhopper runs &fly`s great but a little mean on finger`s &face. Did float`s in the summer time What a good time,sor`ta hard to rig w/no instructin`s but got them true &they worked very well. Anybody has any feedback or question`s feel free to write me.p.s. I`m not the wizard but I do know some. angell@rangenet.com

Who: Garth
Where: Sydney, Nsw Australia
When: Thursday, January 27, 2005 at 21:47:57 (PST)
Email: garthbpullin@hotmail.com
Website: N/A
Comments: What a fantastic story ! I loved the quality of pictures and waited with anticipation to see what happened next. I was disappointed you stoped something that gave you so much fun...sure there's a MX with you name on it. In fact, I might even put your name on mine ! Happy ultralighting !

Who: Brandon
Where: Logan, Utah USA
When: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 09:25:13 (PST)
Email: pinoypaper911@hotmail.com
Comments: I want to get my first ultralight. I'm a poor college student with only have $3-4k to play with. What, if anything, can I get for that? Some people tell me that some models are better than others. What do I look for? I need one to build or repair. Does any one have one they would like to sell?

Who: Malcolm Davis
Where: Mt. Olive, NC USA
When: Sunday, January 16, 2005 at 12:33:48 (PST)
Email: Malcolm1200@aol.com
Comments: I am hoping to buy an Ultralight, but have never had any flying lessons. What is the easiest ultralight for a beginner? Does anyone know of any instructors in eastern NC? Malcolm

Who: tuck
Where: mudgee, nsw australia
When: Monday, January 10, 2005 at 13:30:33 (PST)
Email: tuck4caseinter@homtail.com
Comments: hey all iam a ultralight pilot myself from australia n i just wanted to say what a good site you have keep up the good work n keep show people what ultralighting is all bout seeya all ,safe flying

Who: Lance Anderson
Where: Pittsview, Alabama USA
When: Saturday, January 08, 2005 at 11:44:22 (PST)
Email: lancelisa2@netzero.net
Comments: I have just bought a Ultralight It was sold as a Eagle 2 Cyls. Anyone out there who knows about this A/C ??? A Cunan eng 2 cyls side by side . Thanks Lance 334-855-2211

Who: John & Maxine
Where: Williamsburg, Virginia USA
When: Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 10:51:01 (PST)
Email: sailmo@erols.com
Comments: I Love flying, wife does as well! Airborne XT-912 flying out of Williamsburg, Virginia - KJGG. We will be doing many cross country flights this coming spring. Drop in for a visit!

Who: Samuel
Where: Centerville, TN USA
When: Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 14:33:04 (PST)
Email: vincecraft@netease.net
Comments: I'm looking for a good UL kit/plans, that is cost affective. Can anyone help?

Who: doug buranen
Where: edgewood, Maryland USA
When: Saturday, October 16, 2004 at 02:19:08 (PDT)
Email: dburanen@msn.com
Comments: I enjoyed reading your experiences flying..I too am a avid flyer, I fly a paraglider. I just spent this past week flying at Oregon Ridge state park!! Its a old ski hill that had been used for Hang gliding. I climbed the long steep ski hill, laid out my wing took a deep breath and pulled the wing up and started to run down hill, 4 steps later I am up, flying over the crest of the hill I immediately gain altitude, at the bottom of the hill I am 150 feet AGL and make my "S" turns sniffing for thermals and decide to fly the small ridge at the bottom, I managed to get a 20 min. flight all the while a group of scool kids are running a cross country race and I decided to follow them around there course for a bit, it was so much fun, since i started to bleed off altitude, I made my base leg lined up into the wind and landed gently at the parking lot. Talk about relaxing, there nothing like it in the world you are a eagle for just a bit of time..

Who: Chris Larsen
Where: Austin, TX USA
When: Thursday, September 30, 2004 at 11:09:18 (PDT)
Email: clarsen123@yahoo.com
Website: www.sunsetsailor.com
Comments: Wow, I've rarely been as touched. The phenomenal pics and the minimalistic narrative are great. In my college days, we used to fly hang gliders as decompression after finals. I am slowly getting back, and am in the research phaze. I'm vacillating between canard designs like the Eagle and the more traditional Quicksilver type designs. I'm also looking into a PPG due to a deceleration trauma incident I had with a glider. Thank you for sharing your journey, and it definitely fills a niche about the spirit of flying that nicely rounds out the technical information available online. I hope that someday soon I will be able to know first-hand instead of having to imagine it. With that being said, all journeys that cause one to evolve as a person begin with a dream.

Who: Phil Heinz
Where: Mount Prospect, Il USA
When: Monday, August 30, 2004 at 17:54:03 (PDT)
Email: pmheinz@wowway.com
Comments: Jim, I also had an MX for one summer in '82. It was the same color as yours. I know exactly what you're talking about in "contour flying". I forgot how much I missed it until my wife gave me (with a little help from the ad cut from the newspaper that mysteriously appeared on her dresser) an aerobatic flight in T6 Warbird trainer. When I have the time again (life does interfere with one's plans) I hope to fly again. This time, I want a 2 place amphibian. Thanks for the great site. Good luck, and keep flying! Phil Heinz

Who: Duane Davis
Where: Universal City, tx USA
When: Sunday, August 29, 2004 at 12:05:34 (PDT)
Email: tankboot@hotmail.com
Comments: Dear Pilots, I am opening a new public airfield in Cibolo Texas, Called Davis Field, on 1 October 2004, just 14 mins drive time, from downtown. I would like to offer you a place to operate you're buisness and or aircraft. We are approx 20 miles closer to san antonio than new braunfels and would love to host you're aircraft and or buisness. Coordinates are N29. 31.298 W 98' 11.124. Let me know if you may be interested. We offer fuel, and we will offer (within the next year) a resturant, flight school, a pilot shoppe and several other ammenities. I hope to speak to you soon, Duane Davis (281) 914-0278 Tankboot@hotmail.com

Who: Rob
Where: Long Beach, California USA
When: Monday, August 23, 2004 at 20:59:10 (PDT)
Email: upwind13@yahoo.com
Comments: Well, the picture of your daughter at the end of your journal did me in; tears and emotions jumping around inside me like thermals over the desert. Your site is awesome, your story absolutely wonderful, and your writing captured the moments in time that not only have filled your senses but those who will read your journal. Terrific! And now, I am so ready to get back 'up there’; I 'll be loosing sleep over it! I flew gliders in N.J when I was 16 and in recent years. I have flown other fixed wing contraptions, including a few hours in an open cockpit Steerman, and for a while, cruised above the landscape in helicopters for the Army. Of all these flying experiences, soaring was the ultimate in flying. Kind of like the difference between power boating and sailing. Being out in the elements, with all your senses alive with input and feeling that you are a part of and in a dimension experienced by very few, is the essence of being alive. Flying changes you forever. You’ve done a fabulous job of conveying an experience difficult to describe and your words place the reader as close to the experience as is possible, without actually being there. Thank you for an inspiring, warm and sensitive experience. And thank your daughter for me as well. Soon, my ten year old daughter will be helping me to write our journal! Rob Taylor

Who: Dominick Black
Where: Dallas, TX USA
When: Sunday, August 22, 2004 at 22:35:47 (PDT)
Email: dblacklab@yahoo.com
Website: http://welcome.to/dblacklab
Comments: Yep! I'll never forget the special glow that first glace I got at a Quicksiver and a Trike back in my parents 1980's NationalGiographic! I just know I'm going there to ultralight land sometime in the next 2 years! I wish there was moregreat websites like yours for all to see.

Who: Steven Lang
Where: Silver Spring, MD USA
When: Tuesday, August 17, 2004 at 06:07:09 (PDT)
Email: steveclang@yahoo.com
Comments: Thanks for creating such a great website for the ultralight/trike enthusiast. I got my private pilot's license almost 2 years ago at Manassis - fulfilling a childhood dream. It only took 18 months and $7k! I'm married now, bought a house in Silver Spring, and have little money. Flying C-172s ain't as liberating as my childhood dream led me to belief. It's more regulated than driving on the Beltway, too expensive for any x-country flying, and not all I thought it would be. I took an intro lesson with JK while out in Arizona several months ago. Holy Sh-t!! Now that's flying! I've been obsessed every since. I've spent a lot of time surfing the net for anything and everything trike related - learning as much as I could. I also spent some time with JB at Harrison Farm, and finally got up in the air a couple of weeks ago for another flight. What a great time! I love these things. Thanks, Steve

Who: Clark P Reed
Where: Omaha, Nebraska USA
When: Sunday, August 08, 2004 at 08:12:19 (PDT)
Email: clarkpreed@juno.com
Comments: I am now 72 and still love flying my 1983 Eagle XL when the wind does not blow. It is so easy to relate to people on the ground as I hardly ever go up above 300'. It is safer than most planes and forgiving for slight errors. In my 21 years of flying an XL I have never bent a tube and it is a spiritual experience to fly an XL. Have a good day and fly anytime you can. Call me if you have any questions about an XL 402-651-3234 Clark

Who: Evan Lane
Where: Seattle, Washington USA
When: Sunday, August 01, 2004 at 01:52:56 (PDT)
Email: cyssis@hotmail.com
Website: None
Comments: Wow. I just finished High School, and before going to college I've been working to save money for a trip to Asia. Ya know--take off a year and see the sites. About four or five years ago I happened across your site, fell in love with ultralights, and unfortunately left it at that. Now a neighbor of mine is giving up his flying habit (his sight is going from age) and wants to sell his ultralight. Doing some searching on the web (After four years all I remembered from this site was "quicksilver ultralight airgasm") and read through your journal again. Now I'm convinced to stave off the trip to Asia and buy this man's ultralight. I think that hundreds of hours above the clouds will be worth FAR more than a few hundred below them. Thank you for the inspiration, and I hope that both you, your wife and your daughter have had as much luck after your flying days as you seem to have had during.

Who: Forrest Tainio
Where: Barnardsville, NC USA
When: Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 08:25:13 (PDT)
Email: RobertCR500R@charter.net
Comments: Your story is very touching to me.My father soloed at the age of 13 in Decalb IL. at a little airfield he later purchased,called Cottonwood airfield.I myself had always wanted to be a pilot,but poor vision in one eye did'nt go over well with the FAA.Like many others who have visited your site,you have given me that final boost to do what I have always dreamed of. My Father Matti Tainio 1915 1997

Who: Joe Hailey
Where: Shawnee, OK USA
When: Monday, July 26, 2004 at 13:06:14 (PDT)
Email: x44calloveletter@aol.com
Website: n/a
Comments: What a beautiful story! I'm a 20 year old college student with small change and big dreams, and this site and others like it make my yearning for flight that much worse! (but in a good way!) At first i wanted to go the usual route and get a PPL, and maybe fly professionally. Here lately though, I've been wanting to fly ultralights, mainly because of the fun factor, cost, easy maintainance, and the close-knit group of UL-flyers. I've been looking at the Quicksilver line of aircraft, and love the MX's. Unfortunately, being a college student its hard to afford anything, let alone an aircraft! I am determined though to find a way to get airborne, even if it means just flying in a trainer. If anyone knows of any ideas to help me out, feel free to email me. Thank you so much for that amazing story and pictures that confirm everything i'd hoped ultralight flying to be. Blue skies and calm winds! - Joe

Who: Sebastian De Beer
Where: Oranjemund, Namibia
When: Friday, July 09, 2004 at 08:59:53 (PDT)
Email: Sebastian.DeBeer@namdeb.com
Comments: I think you have captured what this life changing activity is all about. You have to go and experience it yourself - nobody can do a good enough job of explaining it (but you come pretty close). Once you have been up there things down on the ground just don't seem to be so important anymore - you get real perspective on life! And the people are all so great!

Who: mac
Where: asland, nh USA
When: Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 22:44:56 (PDT)
Email: macnmo04@aol.com
Comments: thank you. i was exited in the reading of your site. now i want to fly. ultralight looks like that could be possible.thank you again.

Who: Glen Weldon
Where: Millbrook, Alabama USA
When: Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 17:51:58 (PDT)
Email: g.r.weldon@excite.com
Comments: Love the site! I own a 1984 MX that I have owned since 1994, but have not flown since 1996. I am in the process of restoring and modifying the aircraft and should be ready to fly again this weekend (6/6/04). I can't wait! You capture the essence of ultralight flying on this site! Good work and happy flying!

Who: Chris La Vigne
Where: Plano, Tx. USA
When: Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 12:44:01 (PDT)
Email: cmlavigne@ev1.net
Comments: Thank you so much for sharing your trike experiences with us! These true stories are hard to find and yours is one of the most compassionate and remarkable. For those who would like a similar story of two friends who flew 24,000 miles around the world on their trikes, go to www.Trike-Expeditions.com Look for the "South to South" adventure.

Who: JEAN CARLOS OQUET
Where: DAVIE, FL USA
When: Friday, April 30, 2004 at 12:12:43 (PDT)
Email: JEANWOODOQUET@HOTMAIL.COM
Comments: HERE AGAIN,SORRY FOR THE GRANMAR MISTAKES,DOIN` THE VERY BEST I CAN,NOT AMERICAN.SO SORRY AND THANKS.

Who: JEAN CARLOS OQUET
Where: DAVIE, FLORIDA USA
When: Friday, April 30, 2004 at 12:09:09 (PDT)
Email: JEANWOODOQUET@HOTMAIL.COM
Comments: HI,PEOPLE!EXCELENT PAGE!WOW! I`M GETTING STARTED ON THIS,I HAVE EXPERIENCE FLYING 172`S ETC,BUT I PREFER THIS TYPE OF AIRCRAFT,BECAUSE MAKES YOU REALLY FREE... YOU REALLY GET TO HEAR THE SOUND OF THE CLOUDS,BARELY WHERING A HELMENT,REALLY SHORT SHORTS,A PRETTY OLD T-SHIRT,AND SOME HOLED-OLD SNEAKERS.WHEN BETTER,WITH THE POSOBOLITY OF CARRY A CAMPING BAG,TO LAND AND CAMP(IT SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN,UHN?)LISTEN,OUT THERE,SPECIALLY "OLD FOLKS" IF YOU HAVE AN ULTRA LIGHT,WHAT EVER,LIKE I USE TO CALL THEM,AERO-BYCICLES,DUDES,TAKE THE CHANCE, DON`T DIE BEFORE TRYING IT,JUST PICTURE IT FOR A SECOND,AND GO GET A CAMPING BAG,FUEL,AND TO THE AIR TO ANY WHERE...BE FREE AND YOUNG,ENJOY YOUR LIFE,FLY,JUST DO IT... ALL THIS MAY SOUND KIND OF DESPERATE,BUT IS BECAUSE I`M 20 YEARS OLD,AND I`M KIND OF POOR ON MONEY,SO,I WANTED TO TELL THE PEOPLE WITH THW CHANCE TO DO IT... STILL,I`M SAVING FOR 2500$ OR ARROUND,NOT MUCH MORE,TO GET A GOOD AERO-BYCICLE...(ULTRALIGHTS,QUIKSILVERS,ANYTHING FLYING AND CHEAP!)SO,PLEASE,MAKE ME HAPPY AND DROP ME AN OFFER ARROWND THESE PRICE...I KNOW WILL BE TAUGH TO GET SOMETHING NICE LIKE A OLD-QUIK FLYING FOR THAT PRICE,BUT YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO TRY.MAYBE THIS IS THE WAY TO GET IT.SO THANKS,APPRESIATE THE 2 HOURS YOU TOOK FOR READ ALL THESE WEIRD THINGS AND HELP ME OUT!SALE ME SOMETHING CHEAP!!!! WILL DO GARDENING AND THE 2500,IF YOU WANT TO,I`M POOR!BUT I WANT TO FLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who: Anne and Bob Gilligan
Where: Naples , Florida USA
When: Monday, April 19, 2004 at 18:17:09 (PDT)
Email: bobanneg1@aol.com
Comments: Hello, we have our deceased , sons ultralight plane. It is diassemblled right now. We have a video of it as it wa sbeing taken apart. It is an Eiper Quicksilver.. We arent sure about the condition of the wings but neverything else seems OK. Where would we look for a responsible buyer that could put it together. Hope to hear from you anne Gilligan 239-417-4487.

Who: jonathan ariel
Where: masuot-izhak, israel
When: Monday, March 22, 2004 at 09:13:58 (PST)
Email: jonathan500@walla.co.il
Comments: d

Who: Anthony Brown
Where: Tehachapi, CA USA
When: Thursday, March 18, 2004 at 20:58:59 (PST)
Email: Anthony@kermy.com
Website: http://www.kermy.com
Comments: This is a great reading and viewing experience. I am 32 yrs. old, and have wanted to have an ultralight since I was 16 +-. I looked at one today for $1000.00 (needs some TLC) and I am so excited!!

Who: Don R Elsner
Where: Indianapolis- Franklin , Indiana USA
When: Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 09:02:02 (PST)
Email: elsne2@hotmail.com
Website: www.devoted.to/triking
Comments: Fantastic website- original and well executed! After reading the journal one has a real feeling, for the love of our sport (flying). Flying is all about freedom- what better place than here in the good olde United States....Help support the Ultralight and soon to be, Sport Pilot organizations...

Who: Easton Lecompte
Where: Houma, Louisiana USA
When: Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 09:27:22 (PST)
Email: www.FlyingPawPaw@aol.com
Comments: Really enjoyed your story!!!I have flown a MX for 15 years myself...then all of a sudden, I stopped,,,I still have the plane in Great shape in my garage...like you did, I used a trailer to transport my plane around to site to site...After reading your story,,,I went sit in the pilot seat,I feel like it is time to bring her out Again...Thanks!!!

Who: Flip
Where: Key West, FL USA
When: Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 05:27:01 (PST)
Comments: Beautiful site, inspiring story. Must make everyone want to fly. Come on down and fly the Florida Keys!!

Who: Hector Olvera
Where: Mexicali, BC Mexico
When: Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 20:39:11 (EST)
Email: hector.olvera@skyworksinc.com
Comments: Any club in Mexico to teach to fly ultralights? let me know.. Thanks!!

Who: mike
Where: sara toga springs, ut USA
When: Sunday, January 18, 2004 at 18:50:09 (EST)
Email: scorpion84057@yahoo.com
Comments: its very refreshing to read your journal, youve done such a fine job, and im impressed with your consistancy and the true dedication to the sport. im just breaking into it, im buying my first plane in one month, its all planned out, and i gotta tell ya id like my experiance to be just as close to the experiances you have had, and are still having, im am glad you are flying again, dont give it up, your an inspiration to all who fly. your love of the sport is very strong as is mine, and all who read your journals im sure can feel this as i did, good luck in your efforts, and in avation as a whole, oh by the way if you wanna really fly some very celestial country ,come and fly the red rocks of southern and eastern utah, moab, monument valley, zions, canyonlands, lake pal, its all AWSOME!!!!, ps: your little daughters pic, the one that is all grown now is very cute, when i seen it and read your comments, it brought tears to my eyes thanks for sharing your life in avation with us the readers, and some of us who are actually living it as well. flying is great theres nothing like it in the world. Ive flown conventional aircraft for some time know, ultralight is my love though, and im looking forward it. well take care, and god bless you ,and your family. a freind always in avation. i would love to fly with you somtime. come fly UTAH , its HUGE, AND VERY VAST, AND PRETTY. FLY SAFE BYE .

Who: Bill Cash
Where: Lowesville, Va USA
When: Thursday, January 15, 2004 at 09:22:40 (EST)
Email: bcash@countyofamherst.com
Website: Buffaloridgeairsports.com
Comments: I look at a lot of sites out there and this is the best for encouragement I have ever seen. The sport needs more folks out there singing its praises. I fly a north wing maverick and like you said, it's amazing what gradification you realize doing it. The best of all, my wife flys it too. Come to Amherst some time and fly with us. Thanks again for a great read. Bill

Who: John K.
Where: Albany, OR USA
When: Thursday, January 01, 2004 at 13:51:42 (EST)
Email: j2kotyo@hotmail.com
Comments: Very nice site !! I would like to ask if there are any B1-RD owners out there ?? I would like to speak to them ...please e-mail me !! :-)) John K. Albany OR

Who: Ken Lathrop
Where: Seattle, WA USA
When: Wednesday, December 24, 2003 at 13:20:20 (EST)
Email: ken@kenlathrop.com
Website: www.hardwired.us
Comments: Great story. I owned 2 weedhoppers in the early days, with the somewhat unreliable chotia drone engines. I haven't flown in 15 years and have just committed to getting back into it. When I think of fun, I use those years of flying as my benchmark to measure any kind of fun.

Who: Josh
Where: Kansas City, KS USA
When: Tuesday, December 16, 2003 at 17:56:25 (EST)
Comments: Great site. My best friend and I took ultralight lessons one summer when we were home from college. Your description of contour flight is so accurate, and makes you realize why we fly these planes. I haven't flown in years now, but I can smell the cornfields, and see the "lone tree" in the field. Thanks.

Who: Al Stockford
Where: Orillia, On Canada
When: Monday, December 01, 2003 at 19:54:55 (EST)
Comments: Just a short note. If anybody has some tips or advice or knows any helpfull websites or chat rooms, please post them here.I will check back later. No pc at home. Thanks a lot.

Who: Al Stockford
Where: Orillia , On Canada
When: Monday, December 01, 2003 at 19:48:07 (EST)
Comments: Great site.I just bought an 81 mx.Right now it has been taken apart(everything except control surfaces and 447 rotax)for storage. bought it when an older fella past on.No storage space so it will have to wait till spring for assembly.This site may help me complete this project. Thanks for a great site.

Who: Adam Kwiatkowski
Where: Janowiec Wlkp, By Poland
When: Saturday, November 29, 2003 at 21:46:05 (EST)
Email: sp2sga@wp.pl
Website: http://www.eter.ariadna.pl/sp2sga/paralotnie.html
Comments: Paragliding pilot Preference PPG Gliders-PASAT 28

Who: carlo valeriani
Where: Milano, Italy
When: Thursday, November 27, 2003 at 08:51:33 (EST)
Email: carval@tiscalinet.it
Website: www.motodeltaclub.net
Comments: Thank you for this beautiful web site. Your emotions are my emotions. If you pass in Italy, will be a pleasure make a flygt with you.

Who: Harvey Rule
Where: Ottawa, on Canada
When: Wednesday, November 05, 2003 at 14:18:21 (PST)
Email: harvey.rule@bell.ca
Comments: I am an ultralight pilot who has flown sincr 1983.I started my training with the Quicksilver and due to insurance problems I had to change to a new school but they flew Lazairs so I had to learn how tofly all over again because it's a different aircraft.In 96 I sold my Lazair and was grounded till 2000 when I bought an N3 Pup and I flew that till last year when the motor timed out at which time I decided to switch to a 1/2 VW engine. I am just about ready to fire the new engine up and test it.I will be flying again real soon.I guess you could say that I am somewhat of an ultralight expert.

Who: Doug Mooneyham
Where: Hurricane, UT USA
When: Thursday, October 23, 2003 at 18:37:29 (PDT)
Email: domoon@scstarnet.com
Comments: I am 53 years old and I am partialy disabled. In 1998 I was forced to retire from the military and I am still fighting them to get a retirement. I am drawing SSI disability now and I have limited funds to work with. If there is someone out there thas has a kit they are not going to finsh or has one they would finance cheap. Yhis is something I have wanted to do all my life and now I don't know what I am going to do. I have loged 13 hrs and some of those ae solo towards my private pilots lisence. Thanks Doug

Who: Mark Nichols
Where: Sierra Vista, AZ USA
When: Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at 21:39:31 (PDT)
Email: az_desert_wind@yahoo.com
Comments: I received my Private License when I was 18... Now I am 41. I really couldn't afford to continue flying much during those years in between, but last month I happened on a used MX. I made $2000 in payments to the previous owner, who also happened to have hanger space available, and added $600 in fresh parts. Beautiful machine... Advice to those wishing to fly... just do it anyway you can... it will happen. I have to say - although I am a licensed pilot and had dual instruction in a two-seat MX, my first takeoff in my single seater was shocking. I was 75 feet in the air before I knew it. A wonderful experience... but - it made me think of those who try to teach themselves to fly - don't do it. You will find yourself airborne before you can consider changing your mind. Remember - Takeoffs are optional... Landings are manditory. Get instruction from a qualified instructor. Check out www.aerosports.org for more info. Beautiful site !! Reminds me of Richard Bach and Jonathan Livingston Seagull. Each inspiration to fly is another reminder to just get out there and do it. Thanks for the site.

Who: jeff french
Where: walhalla, sc USA
When: Friday, October 03, 2003 at 17:10:23 (PDT)
Email: tjfrench@mindspring.com
Comments: do you remember who made that blue hanger. i now have 3 fields to fly out of but only one with a hanger it would be nice to have a inexpensive hanger at the other fields. thanks

Who: Dan Johnson
Where: Battle Creek, MI USA
When: Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 16:41:57 (PDT)
Email: Djplanes@aol.com
Comments: I am looking for any plans or good pictures of the J3B Wizard. Could anyone help me out? Or even a good website to find out information on the J3B Wizard. I am looking to rebuild one that I have recently acquired.

Who: Tom Emery
Where: Edmonds, WA USA
When: Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 10:48:05 (PDT)
Email: Emcrafter@comcast.net
Comments: Well you've made my day, I'm 65 years along and finally found someone who has confirmed my every suspicion about flying. Number one is that it's supposed to be fun. I became an Naval aviation structural mechanic in 1957, when I flew the first time it was in a P5M-2, a flying boat. I remember thinking, well the take off and landing was fun but the rest bored me to death. I have to remember though I was up there on business. I always thought flying as the early pioneers in did it must have been exciting and fun. Your site, so well photographed and explained made me feel good again about flying. I had a stroke in the last days of May-03 but am recovering nicely, and now I've got a dream to fulfill. Twenty five years in Naval Aviation and now it's my turn to fly the fun planes. I really enjoyed your site I'm passing it on, and thank you so very much. Wishing you, your family and friends "Fair Winds and Following Seas" Tom

Who: Jason A. Parker
Where: tyler, tx USA
When: Friday, September 26, 2003 at 09:19:47 (PDT)
Email: fullmetaljacketvideo@yahoo.com
Website: n/a
Comments: I am a videographer and I want to offer my video experances to all. If you should want a video of your flight or want to set up some sort of demo tape for how-to-build or just to capture the experance, call me and I can meet with you on what you want and my prices. My first u/l flight was in a weed hopper 2 and I would love to know if there is one for sale out there. Also I would like to meet an instructor for lessons and sales in my area.

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