Had a day off after a GREAT Mothers Day flight and the winds have settled into the “typical” summer pattern so I pick the Brooks site as our starting point today. We get the balloon pumped up and when standing tall we are ready for the passengers to board. We are off the field with a push to the southwest, not really the direction desired. If this track holds we will wind up crossing the river. I start “hunting” for some more south as the passengers settle into the flight. I can’t find much south as we continue to drift slowly toward the river. I drop down a bit to slow the inevitable and go low to cut some speed so the “gang” can move to the ferry and catch up with us as we cross the river into Lincoln store area. I drop down to “wait” for the crew and play in the trees until we can get a tow off this field and to the road for the lay down. We get the balloon packed up and back in the bag and head back to the picnic.
I get the story started, the toast is done and the certificates are presented.
PASSENGER COMMENTS: John & Stephanie: “Cool Flight!! What away to celebrate our 15th Anniversary. Thanks for our 1st balloon ride.” Allen & Darla: “What a beautiful morning for a hot air balloon ride, celebrating Allen’s birthday with a gorgeous view!”
A BIG thank you to today’s Crew (I can’t get in the air or back on the ground without’um) Tim, Ed, Cecil
TRACK
Average Speed: 6.0 MPH
Distance Flown: 6.4 Miles