Was trying to organize a Pilots of America (AOPA board spinoff) meet-up in the Chicago area today, but it didn't go as planned... most of them were going to meet up at KJVL just across the Wisconsin border, and I didn't feel like driving that far.
but when PoAer Buzz offered me a lift from C77 to KJVL in his 2000 Citabria, it suddenly seemed worth driving almost as far...

Left at 0630 today to go meet him; the crosswind on the paved runway looked challenging (the grass was not usable yet), but he preheated 4AC anyway so we could have a look-see.




Such a fresh, clean bird... and a great panel. Real nice.





He took us around the patch at C77 first to try a landing, in case it seemed that the stronger wind later might make a landing too difficult.


     


That went well enough, so we climbed to about 2500 to head north about 20 nm to KJVL. Buzz graciously offered me the stick for most of the trip... did a few turns and then just worked on holding heading and alt. Tricky from the back seat, but it sure felt like a Champ to me, except for the phenomenal climb rate and higher airspeeds. No, we didn't do any aerobatics... maybe next time.




Next thing you know, we were cleared into the pattern at Janesville and I relinquished control so Buzz could bring her in for a nice landing.

Got some good shots on final... here we are clearing the river to make 04.



one more part coming...