The kind of day that whispers, “Just stay inside, make a second cup of coffee, and don’t even think about flying.” No wind to speak of either. Just still, heavy air and that soft, endless pitter-patter that soaks into your bones if you stay out too long.
Go fly a kite? Not exactly top of the to-do list.
But here’s the thing: I’ve got access to an indoor riding arena.
And while it’s mostly meant for horses and serious riders doing serious jumping or dressage things, it’s also perfect for those rainy days when the itch to fly won’t go away. It’s big, it’s covered, and it’s (mostly) wind-free. Close enough!
Also, I always have a kite bag in the car. Always. Like a weird little emergency kit, ready for anything from beach wind to absolutely nothing at all. Packed in there is a selection that covers most conditions, including those glorious “dead calm” scenarios.
This particular Sunday, after I’d finished up the usual stable chores (horses fed, buckets filled, mucking done), I made myself what may technically qualify as coffee — instant powder plus hot water and a vague sense of hope — and started digging through the kite bag. I landed on Zaephay, one of my favorite light-wind builds. Handmade, tuned just right, and always a joy to fly in indoor spaces.
So I grabbed the kite, the tripod, and my phone, and headed into the riding arena.
No grand plan. No perfect lighting. Just me, Zaephay, and the sound of rain tapping on the roof. And that moment where everything slows down, and it’s just about the lines in your hands and the kite dancing through space like it forgot gravity was a thing.
You don’t always need wind.
Sometimes, you need a roof over your head, a kite that feels alive in still air, and a little bit of time to let it fly.
Anyway — I could ramble on, but honestly? Let the video below speak for itself.
Just Fly.
