We made one of those rare decisions, set the alarm clock! I have to say that doesn't happen very often anymore. We are, after all, retired.
Today, however, is the first day of the Hot Air Balloon Festival. It's a 100 mile drive and the first balloon goes up at 7 a.m. The alarm goes off at 5 a.m. I'd made my iced tea the night before, but RJ still needed to make coffee. It's nearly 5:30 before we hit the road. Fortunately, it's all interstate and we arrive in Mesquite with 5 minutes to spare.
The first balloon to depart carries the American Flag while the National Anthem is broadcast over the speakers.
Many of the handlers were at or near retirement age. They obviously enjoy having time for this hobby. There is a fan to start the process of inflating the balloon. You can see it in front of the lady with the hood. It's not very big considering the size of the balloons.
The next step is adding hot air which is accomplished with fire.
As the balloon rises, the basket turns upright and the crew climbs in.
They are off..................
Up, Up and Away............
This photo gives you an idea as to the size of these balloons. This one is not fully inflated, but you get the idea.
The same balloon after take off. They need to keep the "hot air" going periodically to keep it inflated and afloat.
An overhead shot........................
The snow covered mountains make a nice backdrop for these two.
The balloons are all up (except one which never did get off the ground). I've never been to one of these before and know that I will find another and hopefully be able to take a ride myself. I think that might be my next adventure.........
I wish these photos were in my camera! Especially like the one with the mountains with snow on it. Gene just didn't feel good so maybe another time, another place. Skydiving....hot air balloons...you have more guts then me!
ReplyDeleteHot air balloon rallies are fun to watch. I've never been up in one and have no such desire. You know how I love having my feet on the ground. This sounds like something you'd do, but for the love of G-d...don't jump out of it girlfriend!
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