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Flying: It isn’t always easy.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article portrays airplane ownership as a complex, long-term relationship, akin to an "arranged marriage" rather than a fleeting romance, involving both "ordeal and grace."
  • Over seven years, the author cultivated a deep, unique intimacy and comfort with their Cheetah through countless shared experiences, both magical and challenging, often in solitude.
  • This enduring bond is highlighted by the author's decision to forgo new adventures for their familiar plane and the reaffirmed love for it even when facing mechanical issues and physical effort, demonstrating affection that transcends convenience.
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The 90°F June sun is beating down on me, and beads of sweat are running down the sides of my face as I strain to pull my Cheetah back up the taxiway. What was I thinking, buying an airplane that was so flippin’ heavy? I stop for a break, wiping the sweat out of my eyes and scanning the 500 feet of tarmac remaining to my tie-down. Maybe if I pull the plane behind me. I turn around, grasp the handle of the tow bar with both hands behind my back, and bend to the task.

“You are so lucky I like you,” I mutter to the plane as I resume my plodding up the taxiway, hair askew and sweat dripping onto the tarmac.

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