I took off today into a cloud of smoke. Although the reports were VFR, I question whether it actually was. I climbed to 5500 feet and soon I was in the clear. The ride to Columbia was a little bumpy due to the heat. Today's high is reported to be 100 degrees. Since we had a few hour until noon, the temp was closer to 85. It wasn't long until I was entering downwind for runway 17. I set up for a 500 FPM decent on final. As I landed I saw Mark holding a camera. (Oh no. I had on new glasses, my contacts slipped, the sun was in my eyes. The landing was a six out of ten.)
I met Mark and we took a BAC memorial photo. We left the airport and hiked to the town. We wondered around scouting for a place to grab some grub. We watched as the actors prepared for today's western show. Mark and I were wearing shorts, the actors had on jeans, chaps and leather vests. The women had on long dresses and hats. I didn't appear to be an easy life in the 1800s.
After scouting the town I asked a park ranger where we could find food. We had passed a bakery, a coffee shop and a tea shop. I wanted BACON. We were directed to a small cafe. It was nice, low key, and served a good selection of food. I changed my mind and had a short stack of pancakes. All I can say is I'm glad I didn't asked for a full stack. My plane was going to be over gross with just the short stack.
We ate and discussed vacation plans, employment and solved most of the worlds problems. We finished and decided that due to the heat we would just strike out for home.
The return trip was uneventful. The smoke had partially cleared and the afternoon thermals were just beginning. I got bounced around a mite but weathered the event until landing.
Overall not a bad day.
