Howard, Howard, Howard,
I'm so dissappointed that you have not learned one of lifes great lessons. At our age, there may not be "next year" or even tomorrow. Start that trek a few days early and see some country and people you've never seen before. Experience some great food and an example of District-8 contests and Southern Hospitality. Enter the contest with my "Naughty Girl" profile (the best profile you will have ever flown). Show off for us with your Nats planes on some of the most beautiful grass circles you've ever seen.
Your decision is like an Okie driving by a sign in PA that says "Gettysburg National Park - 10 miles" and not making that right turn. So sad.
Later, John