TKATC

Just finished AFF the other day, did my high and low solos and a couple "fun" jumps so I am an extremely LOW timer. I had a though creep into my head today, that while trying to make multiple loads or trusting an experienced packer one could get complacent about gear inspection or ANY number of other issues. I noticed one instructor jump one rig and switch to another so he/she could make the next load. I didn't see this person inspect the new rig so maybe they did but it was such a short time span I had my doubts. Just wondering how easy it is to become complacent and was looking for a catchy phrase I could reflect upon so I can avoid ever getting that way. For example, in reference to having an AAD or not, I read a post here that said "I would hate to have $1200 in the bank and being buried while not having an AAD installed" That statement makes alot of sense to me...any others??

Yup. That about sums it up. Welcome to the club. I guess this is the exact response I was looking for. Thanks guys. My instructor also said that the exit will become one of my favorite parts of the experience. I started to think about that and I believe he is right but of course...NOT YET.

I have done 2 tandems and my ground school and will probably get my 3rd tandem out of the way tomorrow. Obviously I am extremely new to this sport and am pretty confident I will complete at least 10 jumps but probably more like 25 or so to get my A license. Here is my dilemma...Each time I board the plane I think to myself "What the hell are you doing?". I am scared to death of the "exit" but usually enjoy the freefall once stable. I am not very fond of PRAYING my chute will open properly after I "pull". I enjoy the canopy ride and landing has been pleasant although I really didn't do any work yet. I go home each night and constantly think about jumping and get psyched up and can hardly wait to go again but once there I find that enthusiasm FADING fast. Is my fear taking over? Will I overcome this loss of enthusiasm once I am more comfortable? Just wondering if I have the systems of being "hooked" on this sport and if anybody else felt the desire to do it but got scared upon arrival at the DZ. Can't really figure it out...why do I want to do something that scares me so much?