The sound of the gas engine of the inflation fan broke the peaceful silence of the morning. The silky nylon fabric of the envelope began to fill with air as the balloon came to life. The morning air was cool but not cold. The summer heat would come later today, but for now it was just right. The grass had just a touch of dew and there was a slight haze in the air. The Sandia Mountains to the east were just getting touched by the first rays of the morning sun rising behind them. The sunrays streamed off the crest like a Japanese fan. The moment was picture perfect. This will be our first balloon ride and hopefully an experience we will cherish for life.
My girlfriend and I had to get up early to get to the launch site before sunrise. Don, the pilot, had told us that we have to start early because that is when the winds are calmer and the cooler air makes the balloon fly better. We hadn’t gotten much sleep at the hotel the night before. In anticipation of our great adventure, we had a long night of lovemaking. So, bleary-eyed and still a little fuzzy in the head, we headed out in the dark morning to have our first hot air balloon ride. A friend of ours had recommended Don when she heard we wanted to take a balloon ride during our stay in Albuquerque. We knew that Albuquerque, New Mexico was the “Ballooning Capital of the World” and we just couldn’t pass up an opportunity to fly there. Our friend and her husband had flown with Don before so they knew he was a really fun person and, most importantly, a safe and experienced pilot. They also told us that for “special friends” he would offer an extra bit of excitement. If we wanted to, we could join the Mile High Club during the flight. Helen and I didn’t even have to think about it. Yeah …. Let’s do it!
We met Don and the chase crew at a park in the west side of town and Don gave us a safety briefing telling us what to expect, what to do and what not to do or touch. Ballooning is a very safe form of flying but it does have its dangers and risks. Don made sure we were informed of those and fully understood how to stay safe. He blended serious instructions with corny jokes. His style really put us at ease about the flight and the sly grin on his face told us that he was looking forward to our extra special flight.
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