Hobbs Trip - Day 4

Left early (0800) and was seen off by almost everyone - what an event! The Airport Manager and lots of locals showed up to see us take off. It was cool to be "celebrities" and it was sad to leave... Stopped through Oklahoma City on the way back to Meridian - even had time for a great burger...

Hobbs Trip - Day 3

Woke up early and met everyone at St. Helena's. The church was dedicating the new Parish Center - named after Bonnie's husband, Bob. Everyone who knows the family was there - it was packed! I'm glad that I was able to be here for this event - it was really special. Had a reception at the Country Club. Went back to Bonnie's later and spent time with the family. Went to bed earlier tonight - we need to go back tomorrow...

Hobbs Trip - Day 2

Not much was planned for the morning, so my student and I headed out of town to visit Carlsbad Caverns. Even though I've been out here before, this was the first time I have ever been in the caverns. It was great - pure darkness, cool air, bats... Spent several hours in there - and then bought souvenirs (1300L) - before heading back towards Hobbs. Stopped for a great Mexican (late) lunch in Carlsbad. Back at Bonnie's around 1600L. Mass with Bonnie at 1700L at St. Helena's. Later, family wanted me to take them over to the Airport and show them the plane - that was fun. Headed back to Bonnie's for another get-together (this time a pre-dedication party). Stayed up late...

Hobbs Trip - Day 1

[Training "Cross Country" Mission] Left Meridian late in the day - wanted to get into Hobbs after dark. Stopped in Fort Smith (Arkansas) for fuel. Dodged thunderstorms on our next flight over to Midland, TX. Weather wasn't a whole lot better there, and we had to wait for a couple of hours for a good weather brief... Eventually took off for Lea County Airport. Delayed in the air to complete our training and get my student his night time... Landed around 2000. Kathy and several of my other cousins met us. Turns out, the airport hasn't had anything like my jet here before - ever! Lots of locals coming up to us to see what the commotion was... Went over to Bonnie's and had a great party tonight. My student was welcomed by the family (as every guest always is...). Slept at the Holiday Inn Express on the Lovington Highway for the night...

Douglasville, GA (USA)

[more househunting - gas in Douglasville (GA) at 1900L - drove back to Meridian late]

Kennesaw, GA (USA)

[drove from Meridian to the Atlanta area for some househunting - got gas in Villa Rica, Georgia (1230L) - stayed in Towneplace Suites in Kennesaw]