SNAP!

[#1]

The first time I arrived at the Albuquerque Fiesta Grounds, the dark blue-velvet sky overhead still sparkled with stars even as the sun peeked up on the horizon. As if on cue, six spectacular hot air balloons rose from the ground, fire from their burners glowing as the Dawn Patrol began testing for wind problems. Then over 600 amazing balloons rose slowly into the sky for a spectacular display of sound and color.  Thus began my love for the October balloon fiesta which brings me back to Albuquerque year after year.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world’s largest hot air balloon festival and is considered to be the most photographed event in the world drawing huge numbers of balloonists and spectators alike.

My favorite morning includes the Special Shape Mass Ascension, which is full of surprises as the balloons begin to take shape against the bright blue sky. The first balloon, a giant American flag, leaves the field to the sounds of our National Anthem. Giant bees from Brazil join a milk truck while Airabelle the cow floats above, surrounded by hundreds of differently shaped balloons.

On other mornings you’ll find the sky dotted with traditional hot air balloons, all decorated in a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. The launch is handled by directors wearing black-and-white outfits, but we spectators are invited to be part of the action, and can wander freely on the grounds. The atmosphere is like a county fair with all types of great food and souvenir vendors hawking their balloon-themed wares.

Around dusk, when the weather cooperates, the balloonists will fire up their propane tanks for the Glowdeo. The balloons don’t leave the ground, but become a stunning display, made even more dramatic when backlit by the dusky sky. A fireworks display then caps off the sensory-filled day.

This definitely should be something to put on your “Bucket List”!

[#2]

Hi Marge,

  Hope you had a wonderful time in New York.  Have you thought any more about a trip next summer (2011) to London and thereabouts, for older teens?  Let me know if it's a possibility so I can start planning.  I want to take my 19-year old and my two 17-year olds, who have all been on "Grandma Marge" tours before, and had fabulous times.  It would be graduation trips for all of them (two from high school and one from junior college).  Hop to hear from you soon.

Kathy Charles

[#3]

Wow! Nice photos Marge! Did you take them? I think I will add this to my bucket list. I've always wondered what it's really like and now you've stirred my interest even more.