I have flown single lines off and on my whole life but it wasn't until I went in to purchase kites for my kids a couple of years ago while staying in Carmel, that I found sport kites (Windborne Kites) and was instantly hooked. I started out with the Igniter and went back the next day moved up to the Addiction. My wife bought me my first quad, an EXP from Kite Country down in San Diego during a business trip. And just last week, I purchased the Blast (9.5' leading edge). I wanted power and power I got whew... After reading and watching videos with John and other flyers using SLE's and Rev1's I realize that maybe I went too far too fast. But oh well...I can always go back and buy one or the other.
I like the typical stunts (figure 8's, axels, reverses ect) but after watching the both of you in action, the slow precision moves are something I would like to work on more. I can do spins but I need to get better control to maintain alitude while performing slow motion spins ( I have tried the "bicycle pump" with moderate success) but I sometimes fall instead staying steady.
Right now I guess I am still working on getting a better feel for the Blast. It moves a heck of lot faster than the EXP and is very sensitive even in the most light wind conditions. I would like to incorporate some of the moves that you and others do in indoor flying (maybe by purchasing some line and making a "short set" about 25' which will allow me to fly in absolute windless conditions).
I also have started flying Dual Stacks in last couple of months and I know I will have to try Quad Stacks as well.
One thing I have found about flying especially the Quads, is the amount of patience and persistence one must incorporate (this is helpful to my Keyboard playing I am in a band too!) in the learning curve of flying. Flying kites relieves stress and is a great way for me to unwind from the stress of my business.
I do appreciate that even though you, John and the other experienced flyers have achieved much success and notability, and yet to still share your thoughts and advice with those of us who are either novice or not quite as advanced with the utmost patience and respect. That speaks volumes of the caliber of flyers such as yourselves and the rest of the kite flying community as well.