There is something absolutely majestic about seeing a hot air balloon up close .. or, off in the distance .. the beautiful colors up in the air a stark contrast to the blue skies surrounding it and the rolling green hills below..
Someday I’d like to get to Albuquerque for the International event there .. seems it would be amazing.
But in the meantime, I try and catch a glimpse wherever I can. Sometimes, when there is time, I like to see how close I can drive to where they might be flying to catch a glimpse more up close and personal. The sight never ceases to impress me, like .. I’ve never seen another hot air balloon before.
This past weekend we took the drive over to a festival here in Wisconsin. I had hoped the night glow would amaze my daughter like my first balloon rally event did me but stronger than desired winds and skies, threatening rain, wouldn’t allow for much activity.
So we enjoyed what he participants there that night, were able to do.
Perhaps the highlight of the night (besides the Sno Cone) ..
We ran into friends ..
And each of the girls got a chance to stand in the basket and get their photo taken like they were breathing fire (Thank you!!! They loved it!) ..
While it wasn’t quite the scene I had imagined it might be, having been to at least one rally in the past ..
It was still beautiful. I am always so amazed by the dedication any balloonist has to their sport, and the courage in which they take to the air. Some of us can hardly steer a car with two hands on the wheel and clear markings as to where we are supposed to drive. I can’t imagine the precision it takes to learn to guide such a massive object through the air, especially at some of these events where dozens of other balloons are floating nearby and you’ve got to maneuver around them.
As I was glancing at the Albuquerque page .. I came across this, The Balloonist’s Prayer. Didn’t realize there was such a thing. But how beautiful .. and, prayers are always good.
May all of our travels, whether it is by land, sea or air, always be safe.
May the winds welcome you with softness.
May the sun bless you with its warm hands.
May you fly so high and so well that God
joins you in laughter and sets you gently
back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.
Conversations With a Cowboy 