HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATT!!!!

I've had a birthday surprise for Matt planned for a long while. He had no idea what was in store for him.

We took the day off to enjoy his birthday and headed up to the New Braunfels Airport.
Along the way he kept trying to guess what we were at the airport for and continued to say that he didn't want to sky dive or fly an airplane. I said, "ok babe..you won't do either of those" ...secretly laughing.

I pulled into the hanger area where he finally saw what was in store for him.

We arrived at Veracity Aviation....helicopter tours and flight lessons.

Matt still didn't know what was in store for him, until we finally told him. 

He was surprised to learn that he was actually going to be FLYING  HELICOPTER!

I think he was hesitant at first. He really didn't have time to absorb the idea since he didn't know what we were doing initially.  After he toured the helicopters for a bit, he finally felt confident with the idea and was amped to get started. 

We waited for the instructor to come back from another lesson. While doing so, we toured the flight line.  Here is a picture of the helicopter Matt was going to fly. 

 
Aleena liked this plane that was parked on the flight line.

 

The instructor landed from his other lesson and took Matt over to start his learning session of the controls.

 

Testing out the propellers and controls...checking in with the tower.

 

Matt was supposed to have a 30 minute instruction, but instead he only needed 20 minutes.  Then, he gave me a thumbs up indicating that they are getting ready for take off. I ran to get a quick video.  The helicopter took off so fast that by the time I got around the building..I couldn't even see a spec in the sky!

Aleena enjoyed a snack while we waiting for daddy to come back from his lesson.

 

We heard the propellers of the helicopter and instantly ran to see him land!

Aleena was so excited to see Matt land!

He was so thrilled with this experience! It was definitely a memorable one. 

He said that it was amazing up there. He got to talk to the tower to ensure appropriate clearance for landing and take off. They went as far as Canyon Lake! I wish I sent him with the camera to get those beautiful arial pictures.  Oh well....next time.   I do certainly believe there will be a next time.

Matt's instructor Adam

Aleena just had to get a picture in the helicopter! She loves the helicopters by our house.

After the helicopter ride, my mom took Aleena since she planned a special dinner for Matt and I at Meson. She knows Matt loves Spanish and European food and this place did not disspoint. It was very yummy!

Afterwards, we headed up to my parents house for a special cake Matt requested...chocolate on chocolate! 

Matt was certainly excited about his day.

I am really happy he enjoyed it and can't wait for his friends to join him next time he goes.

Happy Birthday Matty/Daddy....WE LOVE YOU!