April - Go Fly A Kite / by Michael Graves

In my past life, I flew many kites—many different kites—small kites, large kites, kites with one, two, or four strings, kites that stayed still or danced in the air, and even some that were used for fighting! Kites are a novel way for both young and old to get outside and engage with one of the most awesome forces of nature.

Kite flying can be a very calming activity. Or not! Depending upon the kite and the wind, it can be very sedate. Or require constant vigilance to keep the kite aloft. It can demand an intensity of focus that forces you to set aside the day's worries and concentrate on the task.

I once worked as a staff editor for Kite Line, the world's leading kite magazine at the time. To this day, I remain a card-carrying member of the American Kitefliers Association. This is how I know April is National Kite Month, which is also one of Houston's best times of year.

If you're looking for something novel to do, get yourself a kite and find a wide-open space in a nearby public park. In fact, ping me, and I may join you.

By the way, our local kite club is the South Houston Area Recreational Kiters (aka S.H.A.R.K.) They most often get together down on the beach in Galveston or at Sylvan Rodriguez Park in Clear Lake. Kites Unlimited in Galveston is the nearest kite store.