Thank you.
Yes, I daresay I don't think I'd handle tail slides, hammerheads, or loops if I was in a plane doing them particularly happily myself. It's one thing to watch, another thing to experience oneself.
My replacement tripod arrived today. Initial impression -- quite satisfied. I made the right decision getting a video tripod for the camera rather than a photo tripod. Better weight allowance, already has a smooth panning head, is extra sturdy and won't tip over, and extra tall when needed.
And still lighter weight than my old aluminum tiltall that liked to give me a good knock when I wrestled it out the door. I will put up the old gear at the next garage sale.
No successful photos today for the long run, but a nice time spent with a raggity swallowtail butterfly who had seen better days. Haven't seen a swallowtail out here in a long time, I should grow more parsley. The monarchs occassionaly migrate through here however, give me a lot of good practice. A nice alternative to birds.