I was following up on that stern message about the report of the flight from Sturgis to Billings (there really is a town named the same as that great American movie director? I love it!!). Anyway, there is a typo in the offending paragraph under Mom's Log Day 79 - "...and poor Norma on only her second cross-
sountry flight."
I have to say, I think FlyGirl is being a little over-protective of her friend. I see no ingratitude in what you wrote at all, in fact both you and your Mom both seem to be full of gratitude throughout your adventure (as well you both might be!!
).
If the landscape was obscured by the smoke of forest fires (notoriously dense), as she says, it would be impossible to fly by known landmarks so a line of "big power lines" would be a relief to find, I am sure. This situation - having no landmarks and needing some sort of clue to get back on course - is called Lost. It is not a dishonour, it is a natural condition under those circumstances. Perhaps you should mention the smoke.
Some great photos!! Keep going...
Rory