We travel not to escape life, but life not to escape us.
I got to the airport a little after 7:00 AM. For the past two Saturdays, we had planned a trip to Virginia Beach only to have to cancel each one due to the weather being bad here in Blacksburg or bad in Virginia Beach or bad in both locations. That’s probably one of the worst things about flying but it makes the times you do get to fly that much more exhilaratingly fun.
As soon as I got to the airport, I took the cover off the plane, picked up the wheel chocks surrounding the tires and put them in my car – no need to have that additional weight in the plane while we’re flying. Next I cleaned my spinner with a new cleaner that I wanted to try and then cleaned the windows with an amazing foam product that Roger had given me. I then undid the tie downs holding the plane in place. I was just putting snacks in the plane when Roger pulled up. Was he impressed that I had gotten those things done? Nope. I had forgotten to unlock the passenger door and I had also forgotten to clean the nose wheel struts.
We got fuel, tested the fuel in the tank for water and checked the oil. All was good. There’s a list of safety procedures you must do each time before taking off to ensure the safety of your plane, your passengers, and you so you don’t forget.
With those things done, after announcing our departure, we were on our way to Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach is about 330 miles driving by car, taking roughly about 6 hours. It took us about 2 hours to fly. It was a super fun day trip.
“Flipper” is the name I’ve given my plane, a Cessna 172 Skyhawk. And to live up to its name, I like to visit the seashore as often as we possibly can.
Now that I’ve given you the background, let me share the photos of the day with you.
Photos seen from the air flying into Norfolk to land at the general aviation at Norfolk International Airport:
The 2 airplanes are: P-39 Aircobra and F-4 Phantom jet:
It’s all about space:
There’s also an observatory that you can access on top of the building. The surrounding area is so incredibly beautiful. I had been to Norfolk many, many times to talk with Hampton University and Norfolk State University students but had never had the time to simply enjoy the area – well, until today!
Roger knew the area quite well. So, he suggested that we go for a hike on the Cape Henry Trail. It was INCREDIBLE and so unlike any place I’d been. Take a look for yourself!
All that hiking makes you hungry. While at Virginia Beach, don’t miss the opportunity to eat at Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant. The atmosphere is warm and casual, right there on the water, and the seafood is caught locally! Plus, if you’re flying and have a cooler, next door you can pick up fresh seafood to take home.
Thank you for coming along for our adventure. Stay tuned for our next one!
“Every man can transform the world from one of monotony and drabness to one of excitement and adventure.” -Irving Wallace