Go Fly a Kite!

Spring and early summer is perfect kite flying season.

Take a drive around the twelve mile stretch on Lake Erie’s peninsula and stop at beach 11. Park and stroll along the water while admiring the myriad of beautiful and often costly flying creations.

Some enthusiasts take the hobby seriously and invest hundreds of dollars on these colorful wind riders. This photo was taken in 2014 on a perfect kite afternoon,

the sky,painted with clouds, I lost track of it, but it was connected by string, something I was holding, something I could always bring back.

Kelli Russell Agodon, Hourglass Museum

The sound of kites fluttering in the breeze is often punctuated with laughter as families make a joint venture of lifting the kites into their graceful positions.

It doesn’t always end well, and a bad launch can create a disastrous plummet to the beach and a mangled kite. This beach isn’t ideal for sun bathers due to the rocky sands.

If you are interested in flying your first kite, you can pick up a moderately priced model to learn the ropes. Be sure to invest in strong string and make sure you have ample tails to balance your kite and then go experience the magic of kite flying.  As children, we used torn sheets tied on the tail.

Find a wide open area  free of trees to begin where you won’t risk snagging your kite.  It will take a little practice learning to find an advantageous wind. Too much wind will not allow the kite to catch a gentle lift, so check the forecast before heading out on a breezy day.

What are you waiting for? I guarantee you’ll become addicted to kite flying! Have you ever flown a kite?

Not convinced? Just watch   Lets Go Fly a Kite from Mary Poppins!

https://youtu.be/oBkSy3dnIY8