First off, thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families in the accident in Alaska. Horrible and probably avoidable.
Had another lesson Sunday. Good conditions. As you guys said, the taxi is coming along nicely now. Went out to the West practice area (out towards Kilgore and Gladewater). We did a lot of rudder work. I was still having a tough time getting my feel, so he made me take my shoes off to get a better feel. At one point, he covered all instruments up and said "Fly me to Longview". This was to get me to start identifying landmarks. Once we got to Longview, he said fly me to your house. Very cool and we got some pictures. This seemed like a different session in that it was less about maneuvers and more about VFR flying. Turning not just to a certain heading, but to a landmark. Had a good base and turn to final and landed.
A couple things on the landing that I had questions on. First, it sure seemed like I was going to land short of the runway, but we obviously didn't. I guess that is about getting more reps and understanding my true position on the final. I guess as long as I have 2 whites, and 2 reds I'm good. Also, when is the right time to flare? How much back pressure (is there a spot on the horizon I should use)? How long do I hold it (until the back wheels are down?).
Thanks again for this forum. It really helps me debrief and review my lessons.