Embarking on the journey to get Sis back in the air has been nothing short of surreal. It felt like time stretched endlessly, yet suddenly, here we are—Sis gracing the skies once more. But beyond the mechanics of restoration, this process has been a profound lesson in balancing progress with self-care.
Sis is a 1947 Beechcraft model 35 Bonanza that I have grown up with and now am for all intents and purposes her caretaker.
Upon arriving at the restorer’s hangar, discussions flourished regarding the approach to Sis’s repairs and enhancements. As the airplane is now flyable and airworthy, we adopted a strategy of “flying restoration;” allowing us to address immediate needs while gradually improving her condition over time. It’s a measured approach, that prevents overwhelm and aligns with both our lifestyle and budget.
The restorer emphasized a crucial point—Sis was meant to fly. Aircraft, after all, require flight to stay in optimal condition. So, we’ve committed to flying regularly, not just to break in the engine but also to identify and rectify any issues stemming from her hiatus.
Life Happens While Making Plans
However, life and weather will throw a wrench in our plans. But having a guideline helps us use our resources more efficiently, ensuring that progress continues even amidst unpredictability.
Some of that unpredictability can come from finding parts. As Sis rolled off the assembly line in 1947, finding parts can be a challenge. Though she shares some common parts with newer Bonanzas, there are more than a few parts that we have encountered that are specific to the original Bonanza.
During the intense preparations for Sis’s freedom flight, it felt akin to marathon training—a relentless focus on the task at hand. In the last push toward flight, I did cut back on daily steps and movement goals but was able to keep posting weekly. Now, with Sis soaring again, it’s appropriate to renew my commitment is to small, daily non-negotiables for both health and writing.
Challenges, like my yearly winter steps challenge, have provided a welcome distraction and motivation, even on the coldest days. Regardless of external circumstances, carving out time for physical activity remains a priority, whether it’s exploring nearby trails or finding indoor alternatives.
The restorer’s hangar has become more than just a workspace—it’s a sanctuary where progress intertwines with personal pursuits. I can step in with a second set of hands when necessary but able to focus more easily on writing than at Sis’s previous home.
Scheduled Rest
But perhaps the most significant change since Sis’s arrival has been the conscious decision to schedule downtime. Recognizing the need to recharge, we’ve embraced rest days, akin to how they’re incorporated into marathon training.
As we navigate the road ahead, mindful of the projects awaiting Sis, it’s essential to maintain perspective. Some days will be filled with triumphs, while others are about accepting limitations and finding grace within chaos.
But amidst it all, finding contentment in the present moment is paramount. Sis’s journey mirrors our own—the destination isn’t just about reaching our goals; it’s about cherishing the moments along the way.
In the end, tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us. So, let’s be present, breathe, and appreciate how far we’ve come—because, in truth, the journey itself is the destination.
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