Talihina January 3/4 2009

The wave would collapse and rebuild in a slightly different position.  The air was getting drier and marker clouds were dissapating making it harder to locate.  Thermal activity to 5000' was good in the valley, but the cumulus development masked the wave clouds.  I was able to achieve and maintain slightly over 11,000' msl.  Field elevation is 660'.
     The cold front blew through the Talihina area about 3 am.  Winds on Sunday were from the north(350 degrees) and 15 mph on the ground.  The tow plane went up on the south/Kiamichi ridge and explored the north face, finding it very soarable as winds were 20+ at the ridge top.  The ceiling was too low to safely soar; just 500' above the ridge.  At 1 pm, with no sign of further lifting of the ceiling, we called it a day, rigged down and headed home.  We were treated to the sight of lenticular clouds over the mountains all the way to Hwy 69 at Stringtown, Ok. where the Ouachita mtns. end.  Had Sunday's ceiling been high, I have no doubt we would have found the north wind wave and taken advantage of it.
     There were four Tulsa pilots, their tow plane and pilot, a regular attendee from Rogers, Ar. along with Andre and myself.  As usual we had a great time and the legendary campfire dinners on Sat. night just keep getting better.  This time Andre provided beef tenderloin, smoked salmon and good wine.  Grant Cheadle, master chef, prepared the meal.  Dinner was followed by good cigars and good B.S. around a blazing fire. 
     We have a unique 'secret site' and only a few pilots to enjoy the potential and beauty of the area.  We are pioneers in our own playground.  Its not as far or exotic as Moriarity or Parowan, but it offers year round soaring in the variety of conditons other more famous sites are known for.   Best of all, its in our own backyard!