Independence Day Balloon Fest

Every year in Provo on the days around July 4th, there is a balloon fest. We finally, on our fourth summer here, took the early wake-up call and made it to see the balloons. It made for an early morning for all, but it was well worth it. We were able to go right onto the field where the balloons were preparing for launch. Because of the weather, the balloons started early so we got there just as most of them were finishing filling up with hot air. The one that looked most like a flag rose off the ground about 3 stories, we all said the Pledge of Allegiance, and then they were off. It was pretty cool to watch them head up while standing right next to them. The balloons were supposed to come back and drop bean bags on a target and pop helium balloons, but the winds weren't really in their favor so only a couple made it back. Here are too many pictures to show you what it was like.

Getting ready for lift off.

Wow, look at that!

Mommy, Look!

A little closer and still just as amazed.

We went with our friends, the Malones minus Jamie who was in Virginia starting his new job. Sam missed out on the picture because he was riding on my shoulders.

Drink of Coca-Cola for Smokey?

And they are off as the sun rises over the mountains.

The Coca-Cola balloon was quite the spectacle. We got there right before it stood upright. We were excited to see it fly, only to find out it was just for show. Can anyone say "Lame Sauce!" Actually it was still really cool and the kids thought it was great, especially when it almost fell on us when they were putting it away.

These were two of the three balloons that made it back to the field to drop their bean bags. The kids of course loved the pig, but then again who wouldn't!

If we are in Provo next summer, we will be heading back to see the balloons.

After the balloons we went to watch the Provo Parade. It was pretty fun although too long (almost a quarter mile in between parade entries) and no candy, toys, etc. And we sat about 30 feet off the road because it was too packed to be any closer. But it was fun. And Sam was digging the bands. He was grooving to them in his own little world. Check it out!

Too much fun! He has moves that would make his Aunt proud!