In Washington we call it a balloon stampede, but here in Boise it’s called the Balloon Classic when a huge number of hot air balloon riders descend upon the city and float their balloons.  It is beautiful and majestic.  And when you are little, it is scary and loud.  When I was around three years old Aunt Janie came to visit us in Walla Walla on her way to college.  My parents took her to the balloon stampede to ride one because she adored hot air balloons.  I remember being absolutely terrified of the loud noise the flame thrower inside the balloon makes and I wouldn’t get in for a ride.  I just remember clinging to my dad with my ears plugged.  We got in the car and chased Aunt Janie’s balloon all over the countryside.  She had a blast, but I didn’t. 

Having outgrown the fear of loud noises long ago, I have wanted a second chance at riding a hot air balloon since I wimped out the first time.  This Wednesday I got my chance. (sort of).  We took the kids to the Balloon Classic on kids day so they could ride a tethered one and I didn’t wimp out this time.  What’s cooler is that neither did Liberty!

 
She was scared of the noise, but she is braver than her mother was and got on the balloon!  This is not a great picture, but here we all are.

Next year I’ll see what I can do about riding one for real!