There’s something special about heading up to our family cabin in Northern Michigan, just outside of Torch Lake. Even in the fall—when the water is far too cold for swimming—the beaches still call to us. On a recent trip, my wife and I spent a few slow, sunny days out by the shoreline. No crowds, no noise, just that crisp northern air and a stretch of quiet water.

It ended up being the perfect setting for what I’ve been focusing on lately: getting more comfortable flying my DJI Avata 2 in full manual mode. That’s the style I’m chasing right now—fast, flowy, and dynamic FPV movements with big dives and smooth transitions. And nothing pushes your skill like practicing over water, where judging your true height is always a little tricky.

Still, the conditions were too good to pass up. I spent the afternoon running low passes, carving turns, and sending a few confident dives toward the lake. It was equal parts nerve-wracking and energizing—exactly the kind of session that makes you a better pilot.

The footage turned out fun, so I decided to share it. Consider it a glimpse into the practice process and the joy of flying in a place that means a lot to us.

Enjoy the view—and here’s to more fall flights up north.