Up, Up & Away

A colorful hot air ballon lifts off the ground as seen from below.
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Some people are terrified of flying. I understand that. After all, if we choose to fly we are putting our lives in the hands of manmade technology and other humans. It takes a great deal of trust! I love to fly and I’ve been fascinated by flight my entire life. This could explain my intense interest in birds. But it’s not just birds.  It’s planes, hot air balloons, para sails, kites and now drones, too. However, riding in a hot air balloon has been on my bucket list for many years. I came very close to having the opportunity to ride in a hot air balloon this weekend when I ventured out to the Second Annual Animas Valley Balloon Rally.

Twenty-one balloons gathered early Sunday morning for a mass ascension above the spectacular, glistening & golden autumn colors currently blanketing the Animas Valley in Durango, Colorado. As luck would have it, and being the type of person who wants to interact and engage, I met Deborah and Robin Rice from Houston Texas. Deborah is the pilot of Foxtrot. They invited me to tag along and be a part of the “balloon chase” crew.  How could I possibly say no? Being new to this sport I had no idea what that entailed. But, I can assure you it’s pure excitement, and involved riding in the bed of a pick up truck to get some great photos and footage. I will be working on compiling a short video of this extremely fun and colorful extravaganza, so be sure to check back!

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