Hot Air

Was just remembering, this morning, a fun activity I used to participate in but haven't for decades. When I was a student at the University of Kentucky - and for many years afterwards - during the Little Kentucky Derby I would help launch the hot air balloons.

The pilot and crew members (if any; some of those were one-person operations) would set everything up, then direct volunteers in simple but useful tasks. A few words and a bit of attention were all that was needed to successfully apply the free enthusiasm. Then we would stand back and watch the balloon lift silently into the air.

I doubt this would be allowed today. Too many nannies, afraid someone will get hurt or have property damaged, and sue the school.

Hot air balloons are fragile but majestic. The sight is wonderful, but makes me wish I could see a truly large airship up close.