New guy from Ohio

[GTholen]

Hello,
My name is Greg. I have recently sparked an interest in NASA. Although at an early age I was consumed by NASA. I even did a report on the space shuttle when I was in the 3rd grade. It was also the year that Sally Ride was to be the first lady/teacher in space. Needless to say That day changed my plans in life as I was devestated that day as my class and I watch as something we couldnt grasp had just happened on live T.V.

My brother moved to Ft.Pierce,Florida 2 yearsa ago. With my job,I just didnt have the time to get down to see him. I lost my job on Dec. 21st. I decided that I was going to go down and see him,being I had the time. My only request was that we made time to go to the Kennedy Space Center.Our parents took us there when we were younger. I have to say it was completly different but the Rocket Garden seemed to be unchanged in the 20 sum years I had been gone.

Needless to say,I went with his girlfriend and her daughter as he couldnt get that wednseday off work. We walked around and I was amazed by what I saw. We did all the shows. I tried to read everything I could lay my eyes upon. That following Sat,My brother and I had the chance to go back and to the 3 hour tour(which turned into 5) and that was the high light of my trip. It was family day and the family members of the employees had the chance to go out to the launch pad and take up close pics of shuttle. I was a bit jealous. Once again I find my self caught up in emotions that I had stuffed down inside for many years. I was unable to stay for the launch,but wil be travleing back there for the next one in march. I realized just a short while ago that this last launch was to be the last night launch of the shuttles career. I hope to make the next 4.

Sorry for the lenghty opening post. Im excited to find this forum and hope to be a part of this board.

[Rick]

Hi Greg and welcome!

Thanks for your personal recollections and reflections. We hope you find InsideKSC a good place to be.

One technical correction however, Sally Ride is alive and well. Christa McAuliffe perished in the Challenger tragedy.

Thanks again!

Rick

[GTholen]

Sorry about the mix up. It was late when I was writing that. I stand corrected. Next time I decide to write that late at night/early morning,Ill make sure I'll drink a few caffinated beverages so I have my witts about me.Thanks for having me.

Greg