Kyle:  Perhaps it was a misplaced key stroke which sent your message soaring
into our listserver sky, but I'd like to believe there was an "old-timer" who
steered your message here.  The original instructor who often sits co-pilot
with us throughout our life.  :D

Before I, yeech, "retired" I managed an avionics shop.  Mostly light single
and twin when we started.  By the time I left we worked on Lear's a Gulftream
and were also doing retro-fits on "show" planes (B-25's, Mustangs, and much
to my husband's delight, Corsaires)  Although I never got my liscense, I was
often enouraged to by the shop's owner.  There were 3 flight schools on the
field.  Funny, I LOVED the people in aviation, but never had any desire to
fly.  I used to get offered rides all the time. (Not just in Aztechs, but a
luxurious Aerospatielle Helicopter, and even the B-52!)  I routienly said no,
but I finally agreed, once, to go up.  I can't remember, but I think it was a
Bonanza- (it was presseried and had club seating)   The ac was mainlay used
for Part 135 Charter (which is how I began my career in aviation).  Anyway,
the pilot was doing take-off's and landing.  I was so green within 30
mintues, I had my face in the air-vent and begged him to let me out.

I guess your post (although not actually intended for reading here) put me in
mind of my "other" life.  I'd forgotten how much I missed being around
aviators.  I'd like to say thanks for reminding me of my good times.  I'd
also like to bonk you on the head!!!!  I cringed when you said you brought
your dad's marine GPS.  This was always one of the topics I'd have to "steer"
around when selling panel mounted GPS units.  I also- HATED, "Trade-A-Plane."
 I'd constantly have guys trying to get me to match "discount - mail order"
prices on equipment.  It took awhile, but eventually I honed my salesmanship
skills.  In the end I was selling complete auto-pilot packages averaging a
$25-$30 thousand dollar price tags.  (Hey if you want the best (IMHO) - you
go for Bendix/King).  - Sorry to ramble, but you brought back so many
memories- I just wanted to thank you.  Have fun, and as long as the FAA
renews your ticket- no matter what the restrictions - KEEP ON FLYING!!!!!!!
-  Denise.