Balloon festival

Slow to get started, the balloon festival was well worth this morning's early wake up.

We were out the door shortly after 600A, caught the shuttle, and made it to the launch field by approximately 630A. Right on time.

Based on the pilot balloon (Def: A small balloon used to determine wind velocity) that was sent up, there was a little too much wind to send up all the balloons right at the start. We couldn't feel the wind on the ground but could see the looming grey clouds leftover from a small weather front that was breaking up.

Regardless, one by one, about half of the balloons launched as the morning went along. In all, we probably saw 20-25 and each one was as exciting as the first.

Some our favorite moments included:

The balloon that was inflated and launched literally on top of us. It was the first one of the morning, too, so we had no idea what to expect. But, it was cool.

Video to be posted later.

The balloon -- Madelyn and I named it "Purple Lightning" -- that snuck up on everyone only to dip into the lake and then seemingly go straight up the ski jump ramp. (Dipping into the lake was part of the balloon rodeo portion and the teams were judged on this skill.)

The next balloon -- "Rainbow" also named by Madelyn and I -- to dip into the lake which actually skimmed all the way across the lake. Quite a daredevil feat! I wouldn't have been a brave camper had I been in the Rainbow's basket.

Donuts and coffee which lifted everyone on Team Anderson's spirits before the balloons really got started.

A sky full of beautiful hot air balloons and some fun for a group of country mice from the city.

I definitely recommend this to anyone and look forward to doing it again sometime.