Page 20 -Only a Few Minutes to Home

     A good nights rest. Up at a early morning hour for breakfast. Now, out to the airplane at sun up to fly over a band of sheep and let my distant cousin try out my plane. He liked it.
     On my way home now. Only a few minutes to go. Soon, I land at the airport at Ekalaka. It is about a few miles from town. My dream has come true. Yes, daddy, I did learn to fly, and I own my very own airplane. Now, come and see what it has done for me.
     Very carefully, I put the plane in a vacant hanger. I am so excited! I would not trade anyone for this moment.

Photo by Beth Lang

     I set out for town on foot. I had to walk as I told no one that I was coming home.  I head for the New Life Bar because I am sure that my father will be there.
     He was.
     My father was surprised as he greeted me. Being in the Navy, I had precious few chances to come home to see my parents.  "Harlan, how did you come in from Baker? Did you come in on the stage?" I quickly explained that I had flown into Ekalaka from San Mateo, California. In my own airplane! He didn't believe me!  I was devastated. From the high of completing my journey to an unbelievable low of my father not believing me.  I had come from California to Ekalaka with some overwhelming experiences along the way. Yet, my father doesn't believe me.
      When I walked into the bar, my father was right where I thought he would be. He was sitting at a blackjack table playing solitaire. His brother at one end of the bar out cold having had too much to drink. Now, I am cold and ready for a cup of coffee. Pilot has been patiently waiting at the door of the bar for me to come back out.  We have a cup to give fuel to the conversation. We talk about all things BUT my trip. I am dying to go back to my airplane, but my heart reminds me that I really want to see my mother. Oh, and my brothers and sisters.