I love the colors, smells, and calming air of October.  It is such a beautiful, calm, clear day we just have to go do a longer hike-n-fly.  Matt, Mark, and I trudge our way up the steep trail to the upper launch.  The wind is pretty cross up here right now, but were used to it.  A quick lay out the gear, a few tugs on the lines and were off.  Although not a super long flight, it was great working the small thermals over the bench.  It is always great to spend time with fellow pilots, and friends who remain as passionate about this sport as I do.