Balloon Daze

Scrambling for the sun

We were surprised to see a balloon over the Mesilla Valley this morning because there was a pretty stiff wind. It was cold when we started off, and I wanted to get into the sun as soon as possible.  We watched the balloon float toward the mountains, pause, then transit back toward the valley, where it eventually touched down.  I'm not sure why I'm so fascinated by hot-air balloons--perhaps it goes back to my childhood--but all I can remember doing with regular balloons as a child was popping them or filling them with water.

Hot-air balloon over Picacho

Hovering over the Mesilla Valley

Snagged in an Ocotillo

Dipping ever lower

Keeping an eye on it

Going, going . . .

Ready to fly the nest

Tortugas and the Organs