I took my first flying lesson in February of 2005.  I received my private pilot's license in May 2006, then was instrument rated in 2007.  This is the realization of a lifelong dream for me (to go where the birds are).  I remember Summer days in Alabama laying on my back chewing on a stem of grass, staring upward, watching airplanes trace the sky.  Today, I'm not exactly making con trails but when I'm flying low and slow I wonder if some kid is not staring up at me saying " I wanna do that some day".