Thank-you for sharing your experience in the glider. I took a glider flight about three decades ago and had mostly forgotten the experience until your post rekindled the memory. It was exactly as you so wonderfully described it.
I remember two things about my ride: the unsettling 'thunk' when I released the tow cable, and getting to see the birds' nests in the treetops.
Cheers, PW.
P.S. We had a little kid fetching the tow cable too. Must be a tradition at glider clubs.
P.P.S. I took a hot air baloon ride too. Another (different) thrill.