| It's a crisp clear
morning in Columbia. A slightly aged mini pickup truck pulls to a stop
near a large open field. A small group emerge from the truck and begin
unloading its cargo ,a huge bag , a wicker basket approximately 3 feet
wide and four feet long and a rather large Gasoline Powered fan. In a flurry of activity
the bag is opened, the contents unpacked with care and stretched out across
the field. Then the group of lanyards are carefully attached to the basket.
The fan is then positioned at the mouth of the huge multi colored balloon.
The fan is started and the air slowly begins its journey into the fabric
opening. Within minutes the balloon starts to take shape and the fan is
moved out of the way as the burner from the gondola is positioned in its
place. With a simple tug on a line a jet of fire leaps forward, heating
the air in the mouth of the balloon as the balloon continues to take shape.
Lines from the gondola basket are anchored to the ground and more fire
leaps into the opening as the balloon begins to rise above the field in
an awkward attempt to escape from the warm air. Within a short time the
balloon stands majestically, straining the ropes that anchor it to earth.
The sunshine reflects off the many colored panels that make up this wonder
of flight from the past. The Pilot prepares
the gondola. He watches as you pull up in your car and prepare for an experience
that can only be described as "Fantastic" your first flight in a hot air
balloon. After exchanging pleasantries, the pilot makes a quick phone call
to the weather service to ensure safety. You are accompanied to the gondola
and assisted as you climb aboard for the flight of your dreams. The pilot
smiles a knowing smile and instructs his team on the ground to release the
tethers as he once again opens the valves on the burner and sends a blast of flame and
hot air up into the mouth of the balloon. With little effort the balloon
begins its rise into the sky and you embark on a journey of a life time.
 
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