
Jul 2011 Vanessa Jump Nelson and her J3 flight!
This was sent in by our very own, and totally cool, Vanessa Jump Nelson for your viewing & reading pleasure. Vanessa says, “I just have to share!”
Independence in the truest sense of the word! Since my first Cub solo several weeks ago I’ve been flying several times a week. I took my Cub in to Aurora airport when “Nine o’ Nines” the B-17 was visiting, and I got to park next to it and get a photo. My Cub ended up becoming, for a few hours at least, part of a display that included not just the B-17, but also a PT-22, and a P-51 Mustang. My “Tumbleweed” fit right in.
I gave Linda a ride back to her home airport afterward, and she became my second passenger that I have ever given a ride to. She and her husband are restoring a Waco biplane, and she soloed in a Cub many years ago, with her mother as her CFI.
That was a couple weeks ago. I followed that adventure up with being able to say that “On Independence Day, I flew to Independence, Oregon, independently!” Attached is a photo I took on the way back to Twin Oaks.
I know it’s only a little more than 70 miles round trip when you use the AirNav calculator, but it felt like a big step for me, as it was the first time I’d been to Independence by myself.

Independence Day trip – on the way back flying with the door open, and Cascade mountain tops showing off their snow covered peaks.
I thought it was kind of fun to do it on Independence Day! :0)
Vanessa Jump Nelson
Tumbleweed’s pilot
Faith
Posted at 11:36h, 15 JulyThat’s fantastic, Vanessa! I love flying to Independence State for the a good meal. I don’t live in the Willamette Valley anymore, but I was there last week for my wedding & dragged all the family up in my 172 (based at Aurora) & pointed out all the local airports including Twin Oaks & Flying M.
Elaine Kauh
Posted at 14:33h, 13 JulyCongratulations on the Independence trip, Vanessa! There’s nothing like taking pictures with the door or window open – breathtaking!
I’m glad to see you are making the most of your Cub flying.
Cheers,
Elaine
Wisconsin