Today I have accomplished something I never knew I wanted to do - but it was GRAND. Exhilarating, adrenaline rush, truly amazing and liberating. Because of taking THAT leap I decided to take another leap and start a BLOG.
This is the leap- pictured here with my new best friend Cameron, A competent 28 year old who I threatened with the wrath of my own four boys. Fortunately, that wasn't needed.
This all started a couple of months ago when my friend Bob mentioned that he had always wanted to go skydiving but hadn't because of family obligations. Now, being empty nesters with kids responsible for themselves... it's time to move on. He asked if I wanted to go! Whoa - what could I say? I did hesitate, waffle, and worry - but inevitably I had to say "yes". I mentioned it to a few friends but got little encouragement - except from my 91 year old Dad who seriously considered coming along. Glad I didn't have to tell him "No".
So, this morning at 8 am we set off to Orange, Ma. and a little place called "jumptown" at the Orange municipal airport. The place was buzzing. Looked like a going concern. We had reservations for 10 am - it was the only time left. So they were booked for the day and making money while the sun did shine. An accident this early in the day would ruin all profitability. I could tell they were careful and in control. We proceeded through training and before I knew it, I had met Cameron my tandem partner, Gary my photographer, and was in the plane with 16 other jumpers (maybe 8 were paying guests). Sardines tethered together.
There was no time to back out - no second thoughts - although they did pass through my mind. It was better that way. I had made my decision before.
One after the other we filed out. I watched the open door as people jumped - what a view. Gary was in front of me - he jumped out and into the air. Bob's photographer climbed out the door and held on to the plane. Cameron and I walked to the door.... or Cameron walked me to the door... and pushed me out - or did I jump?
It was all too fast - but then the cold air - the rush of adrenaline, the realization I was going down backwards and this wasn't right. Kicking the legs back made all the difference as I spun around to the free fall position! Phew... that's better. The badminton birdie was a good analogy.
Cold, fast air flew around my body. The view was incredible. Cameron was close by.
I felt I had the hang of it. A real smile, not the petrified smile from earlier shot. The camera does tell an amazing story. Beautiful country view - Quabbin reservoir, even the edge of the world. And this was NOT the part I was looking forward to. Fifty seconds went by very quickly - then the rip cord and the part I anticipated. The parachute opened and we got to ride the wind. Cameron and I (I wasn't strong enough myself) pulled the cord and manipulated the parachute ride to the left, right, and in circles. Like Jonathan Livingston Seagull! That probably dates me! This supposedly lasted 4 or 5 minutes - time was not easily discernible - it was just lovely.
As the ground grew nearer I realized we had another issue to deal with. I was a bit euphoric and had great trust in Cameron - after all he had my name - and followed his instructions to a T. 
My landing gear was neatly raised until well after his had settled on the earth and I was clearly out of danger. I was a bit wobbly from the adrenaline rush and the relief of being safe. Pictures show this - so YOU don't get to see them! This is where I edit the blog since it isn't just for me!
So, by stepping out of my comfort zone, I grew. I do that with starting by blog- this too is not comfortable. nothing ventures and all that. I see the advantages of journaling, making each day count (or every fourth or fifth day). At least is I make myself value the day, learn a lesson, or commit something to memory, I look at things with more purpose. Selfishly, yes. But so it goes for each of us. The value is in our own perception.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. Leave a comment. Share with a friend..... then get back to whatever it is you are supposed to be doing!
Happy Landings!
