Misty Encore

Yes, another early start particularly when I woke up at 3 am and didn't bother going back to sleep. Another long Field of Dreams convoy in the pre dawn to the "secret paddock" where the Balloons were launching. The mist was quite thick and rather than the later shots I took of the classic balloon type shots I thought I would show you what goes on. Apologies to those who have done it. The burners get three blasts. The balloon is laid flat on the ground and the basket put on it's side with the blower going filling it with hot air. At the other end is a rope attached to the top of the balloon and some poor devil has to hold this while the balloon is filling, keeping it in place. Eventually it (the balloon) rises vertically and generally someone jumps in the basket to keep it on the ground. Some baskets had to be physically manhandled as they were a little eager to get going. More hot air is pumped in. The passengers get in, more heat and flames and eventually it gently lifts off and rises. Some need a bit more hot air to get them going up high enough to catch the prevailing wind and off they go. They didn't seem as fast as yesterday and were in a different direction. They landed close to Bimbagen Estate for those that know the Hunter Valley vineyards.

Thanks so much for the kind response to yesterdays blip. I will do my best to get back to you individually but for now a collective heartfelt thanks.