freefal 0 #1 October 21, 2009 A friend once said that people get into skydiving for all kinds of reasons but they typically keep jumping because of the people. I think there’s a little more to it than that. For example, I love the smell of Jet A on a hot tarmac in the summer. I love the little rituals we each go through before each jump. The routine of boarding the plane at your local DZ, and the novelty of getting on different aircraft at boogies. The overwhelmed look on a new jumper’s face during freefall, or the knowing smile from one of your old buddies on the same jump. The smell and feel of new gear. I like that tickle in the pit of your stomach after you kick out of line twists. Or the way you harness feels in a good turn. A sunset view from the door of an Otter. The waa waa of twin turbines synching during takeoff. Cramming into a 182 with 4 other friends. Looking across a big way in freefall. Landing on the beach. Watching the door open on a tailgate aircraft or on the Jet. Waving at your friends on another plane during a big-way climb to altitude. Hanging from the strut. Low key demo jumps. Scary stories from old jumpers, and the same ‘new’ stories from new jumpers. The way beer tastes by a campfire after a long day of jumping. It’s often the little details that make a bigger experience add up to something more. The friendships we make in skydiving are amazing, but with all the little things added up as well, it’s no wonder we do what we do. What are some other “little things” that you like about jumping? Sights, smells etc… "Ignorance is bliss" and "Patience is a virtue"... So if you're stupid and don't mind waiting around for a while, I guess you can have a pretty good life! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skyrider 0 #2 October 21, 2009 Filming the "Before" jump and "After" Interviews with first timers, and seeing that light in their eyes, Especially, when I "Know" that look means they will be back! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
shropshire 0 #3 October 21, 2009 The smell of fresh air at altitude. The fact that I'm not doing chores or going shopping with the wife. (.)Y(.) Chivalry is not dead; it only sleeps for want of work to do. - Jerome K Jerome Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfriverjoe 1,523 #4 October 21, 2009 Catching tandems. Really. Seeing the joy/thrill/amazement/wonder/ecstasy on their face and in their voice after making that first jump does it for me. Being on the same load (or flying the load) with first timers is fun too."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites