event | Mercury on the Move

We had planned to be there between 5:00 and 6:00, when the balloons were schedule for a mass launch. Thirty or so was the count. That’s a lot of hot air balloons. We got word, however, that the launch was cancelled. Then we planned to get there a little later. All those balloons were scheduled to be lit up at once at 8:00. That would be a site.

Since this was all happening at Shelburne Museum, which isn’t all that far from our house, we weren’t worried. When we got there a few balloons were lifting up after all, leaving a little later since the wind had abated. The “glow” was postponed until the next evening, however. Oh well. We stuck around and watched a couple of balloons lift off. We all got a kick out of that.

After the last one was up and away, the children colored pictures of hot air balloons. We met up with several friends at this very popular event. And we were home in time for bed. The event continues today. We plan to head over there at some point. Meanwhile, here are some photos of one of the balloons we saw yesterday:

Filling...

Filling More...

Almost Ready...

Up and Away

Higher...

And Higher...

Buh Bye

Today was the annual tractor parade in Charlotte. We went last year and it was a festive and fun event, despite a cold wind and steady drizzle. This year the weather was perfect and we had even more fun. My parents were visiting so we had quite the crew there.

We had fresh cupcakes and french fries but passed over the hamburgers and cider doughnuts. We did check out the miniature horses, the sheep, the rabbits and the two-month old calves. We didn’t stick around the play any games but we did see quite a few neighbors and friends. It was a good time.

Whatever the weather, we won’t miss it on purpose next year.