They say the third time's a charm. And by all accounts, they are correct.
We went to the air show in 2012, and it was raining. Although we managed to enjoy ourselves in spite of the weather, no planes were able to fly, and we didn't stay long.
In 2013 we went back to the air show, but this time it was quite cold. (Yes, in June!) And, while we were able to see a few planes take to the skies, this time the temperature motivated us to leave early.
Finally, in 2014 - on our third try - we had a perfect day. The sun was shining, the air was calm, and the planes were flying as we drove onto the air field.
The men and women from the Capital Area Radio Drones Squadron (C.A.R.D.S.) treated us like royalty, giving us front-row seats and welcoming us warmly to their annual War Birds and Classics Over Michigan air show.
Each of us enjoyed the boxed lunch which had been lovingly prepared by our kitchen staff, while we watched the airplanes taking off, landing, and performing tricks like loops and flying upside down. It was fun to hear the delighted comments, oohs, and aahs from Vista Springs' men and women who were happily taking in the air show.
While the pilots took a lunch break, the field was opened up so spectators could take a closer look at the airplanes. We wandered down the path of planes and enjoyed noticing the attention to detail on each machine. We even found that one of the "pilots" wore a scarf which whipped through the air as he flew.
It was a beautiful day. Our bellies were well fed. Our eyes were entertained. And our hearts were full. The third time was definitely a charm.
Here's hoping next year will be, too!
