Wet and Aggressive Corella challenges Magpie

Wet and Aggressive Corella challenges Magpie

Sunday 27 March 2022

Sunday Selections #574


 

Sunday Selections was originally brought to us by Kim, of Frogpondsrock, as an ongoing meme where participants could post previously unused photos languishing in their files. 

Huge thanks to Cie who gave me this wonderful Sunday Selections image. 

The meme was then continued by River at Drifting through life.  Sadly she has now stepped aside (though she will join us some weeks), and I have accepted the mantle. 
 
The rules are so simple as to be almost non-existent.  Post some photos under the title Sunday Selections and link back to me. Clicking on any of the photos will make them embiggen.  
 
I usually run with a theme.  I am continuing to post about the Balloon Spectacular this week.  After the success of my first visit with my brother, with weather conditions looking promising, I decided to go back the next day - to a different vantage point.  Himself indicated he would like to come which surprised and worried me.  He loathes early starts and the launching of the balloons is by no means a given.
 
So I woke him up early, and we headed down to the lake...
 
It was still fairly dark when we arrived.  Dark and still.
 
 And then the sun came up - in a truly dramatic fashion, and balloons started to appear...
 

 




Kayakers, canoeists and paddle boarders flock to the lake, for the view, and because some balloons will give lucky people a tow.  Mind you, the previous day I heard a balloonist say that when he misjudges the landing on the lake he spends the rest of the flight dripping wet.









I really like the Air Force's feature balloon - though that mask always makes me think of Darth Vader.
 













It really was a delightful morning, and the spectacular sunrise perfectly suited the occasion.  When asked later himself (grudgingly) admitted it was worth getting up early for, and that he liked the vantage points I had chosen.
 
We finished the morning watching some of the balloons land, close to the arboretum and our Governor General's residence.  
 


 
There will be more colour and whimsy in the next few posts too, but (probably) no more balloons.   I will try and be a bit more restrained with the photos too.  Have a wonderful week.
 
PS:  For Australian readers the Dignity Drive is on again (finishing at the end of the month).  Woolworth's Supermarkets (and I believe Bunnings) have drop boxes where you can donate period products (tampons, pads, cups and period pants) and continence products for distribution to those in need.  No-one should be forced to choose between food, paying rent and their dignity.  And sadly I suspect dignity is often the loser in that choice.  The goods and services tax has finally been removed, but they are still a significant and ongoing expense.

154 comments:

  1. Replies
    1. Sandi: It was. My smiles threatened to split my face.

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  2. It is strange sitting here in the setting Saturday Sun reading a Sunday Selelctions post from you. The Earth is big and beautiful!
    It's just so good hearing from you again, and I'm happy to hear theat himself (with whom I agree in maters "morning") was satisfied and more with his early balloon watch and glorious sunrise.
    My first thought on the airforce balloon was Darth Wader too :) And the koala is still adorable. Thank yiou for this, not one picture too many.

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    1. Charlotte(MotherOwl): While it is not yet dawn it is definitely Sunday here. I was worried that the balloons wouldn't launch - in which case himself would have been miserable and grumpy all day. We were lucky.
      I am glad that others can see Darth Vader - and Tico is a sloth not a koala. I have never seen a koala balloon. Some day I hope to.

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    2. EC :) Good that the balloons launched then it's neither nice being grumpy or having a grumpy SO. And yes, thank you, sometimes my tired brain mix up those animals. A sloth is called a "lazy-animal" in Danish :) Suits him, doesn't it? And he's cute nonetheless. A sloth by any other name ...

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    3. ANd SORRY to have misled so many of your readers. I'll go write Tico is a SLOTH 100 times on my blackboard!

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    4. Charlotte (MotherOwl): Not a problem. If I had a dollar for every error my tired brain commits I would be very wealthy indeed.

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  3. I love the Air Force balloon and the koala. It's a pretty, sunny day here after heavy rains. Now I can imagine balloons in the blue sky.

    Love,
    Janie

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    1. I visited your previous post and know now that the "koala" is a sloth from the US. Oh, well.

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    2. Janie Junebug: Thank you for visiting the earlier post. And yes, Tico is indeed a sloth. A fairly energetic sloth. Balloons are a joy for me - whatever the colour of the sky.

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  4. The balloons are impressive! The Koala is so impressive. How the balloons are designed and built is beyond understanding. The balloons against the sunset are amazing.

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    1. Susan Kane: Thank you. Sunrise and a sloth rather than a koala but they were amazing. And the intricacies of building a feature balloon boggle my mind.

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  5. Your photos are beautiful - I particularly love the first one in shades of charcoal, purple, and silver. And of course, what's not to love with sunrises and balloons! Thanks for sharing your "uplifting" experience. :-)

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    1. Diane Henders: I liked that first shot too, and even without the balloons was enjoying myself. The balloons were the rich and delicious icing.

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  6. Beautiful EC, you have a great item the balloons, they are out of their world.

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  7. Hi EC = excellent to see your early start details ... I so agree - looks to be well worth it. Darth Vader (air force) does look like Darth Vader doesn't it ... and wet all day after a dip in the lake ... oh dear!

    You've given us some incredible images of pre-dawn, early dawn, blistering dawn - what colours ... then the balloons ... just amazing and so glad all three of you went to see them ... Cheers Hilary

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    1. Hilary Melton-Butcher: DEFINITELY worth it. It is not yet dawn here, but there will be no balloons for me to revel in this morning. Just the same I do love the early hours - though they are not usually as spectacular as the last few posts of mine. Himself is still asleep (and will be for some time to come).

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  8. I was reading some of your comments and noticed the date is March 27 but it is only March 26 here, then I realized you are in OZ and already a day (or night) ahead. Duh me! lol Sigh....I'll be ok. ;)

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    1. J C: It is definitely the 27th here. Early still, but the day has dawned. A bright, clear day. I hope it dawns that way for you too in the fullness of time.

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  9. I love your beautiful balloon pictures and enjoyed seeing a bit more of the koala balloon. And so glad to hear that Himself found it worthwhile, as did this humble reader. :-)

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    1. DJan: Tico is a sloth rather than a koala, but lovely just the same. I wish that you (and a lot of other bloggers) could have shared the fun in life.

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  10. You took some great shots that day, EC. The beauty of balloon flight is a great reason to be up early. Wonderful that you could share the sights with your brother.

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    1. Marie Smith: Watching the balloons take to the air is a cherished tradition during the festival. Lots and lots of people come to see the fun. Seeing them with the youngest of my brothers one day and my partner the next was lovely.

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  11. It does look Darth Vader.
    They really come down low to the people and water.

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    1. Alex J. Cavanaugh. They come down very low, and some of them even skim the water - risking a damp rest of the ride.

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  12. Funnily just yesterday I was wondering the GST on such products yesterday. Good to hear it has been removed, and of course should not have been there in the first place.

    Another fine array of gravity defying aircraft. The creature on the tree branch is very cute. Interesting that our Air Force participates.

    I wonder if the GG was watching from Yarralumla.

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    1. Andrew: The balloons often land not far from the GG's and I hope that he and his family and the staff DO enjoy it.

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  13. Beautiful photos and love those balloons, I am scared of heights so I would never go up in one. Have you ever gone up in a balloon?

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    1. RasmaSandra: I have been on a balloon ride, and loved it. My youngest brother (who doesn't like heights) has as well - and he loved it too. Very shortly after we took to the air he was moving to the front of the basket for a better view.

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  14. hat a glorious sight first thing in the morning. I love seeing the balloon rising and my favorite star of the show has to be Tico, the sloth. I bet it's a pretty pricy balloon.

    I'm glad himself was pleased that he accompanied you for the spectacular event and approved the vantage point you chose.
    Hugs,
    Julia

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    1. Julia: I don't think that any balloon is cheap and the feature balloons would be very pricey indeed. As is riding in them. I am glad I have had the opportunity though.

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  15. Oops, what happened to my "W" in What? lol...

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    1. Julia: Not a problem. I have similar problems and really should proof read before I hit publish.

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  16. That sloth one is fantastic. I have never seen and animal shaped one.

    And what a great drive they have there in Australia. I agree, no one should have sacrifice their dignity for a roof over their heads.

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    1. Juli: Over the years we have seen quite a number of bird and animal shaped balloons - and they are always a treat. Too many people are forced to decide between dignity and food or housing. Which is so very wrong.

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  17. That sunrise!! So beautiful, looks like the sky is made of fire.
    You take such wonderful photos and these don't disappoint. Yes, that does look like Darth Vader. :) The sloth is cute, but I wonder about the choice of animal? Seems odd...
    The gap between ridiculous wealth and crushing choices to survive continues to widen. I'm happy to know at least your country is attempting some solutions. I wish everywhere would.
    I hope Sir FuzzyButt has mellowed as the day has progressed. Hugs to you always.

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    1. River Fairchild: That sunrise was perfect for the occasion wasn't it? The makers of the sloth said they thought it was perfect for a balloon because they are slow moving. Tico moved surprisingly fast and would outpace a sloth very quickly (once it was blown up). Spike has just had his second pill of the day - which is a win. Hopefully he won't be so difficult tomorrow morning.

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  18. I feel like I've waited a whole week for another balloon fix. The last picture is priceless. The sunrise was spectacular. Thank you.

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    1. Joanne Noragon: What a lovely thing to say. Thank you.

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  19. I am so glad you went back for another visit - these photos are stunning, and the sky sunrise colours are absolutely beautiful. Well done on getting the other half to go along!

    I hope you are feeling better, EC, and that your 'time out' helped x

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    1. Alexia: I am so glad that himself enjoyed his early start to the day - and that the balloons DID fly. He would not have been happy (or pleasant) if they hadn't. I am still struggling, but less. The break was good for me.

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  20. Wow and wow and wow again. That sunrise with the balloons was astoundingly beautiful.

    The sloth and mask balloons are so intricate, it makes me wonder how someone figured out exactly how to make them fly.

    My selections are not so dramatic, they'll be over here.

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    1. messymimi: I said wow rather a lot too. It really was perfect and couldn't have been any better. Some of the feature balloons look aerodynamically unsound and it blows me away that they fly. I will be over to see your Sunday Selections in a bit - and am sure that you are underestimating them. Again.

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  21. Perfect viewpoint! Spectacular sunrise, with balloons popping up into the glory of it. I would be on the lake in my raft I think, looking for a tow. How fun!

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    1. Strayer: If we had a water craft I think we would head onto the lake too I think. The view would be spectacular - and very different. People take their dogs out with them too (though I have never seen a cat on the lake).

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  22. I love the balloons, but the sky views were stunning! Once again I am filled with envy!

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    1. Anne in the kitchen: That was an incredible sunrise wasn't it?

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  23. Just loving these shots of the balloons and the morning sunrise, well done for getting up so early :) I'm not such an early riser.

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    1. Margaret D: I am always up early - but rarely rewarded quite so generously.

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  24. those early morning photos are absolutely sublime, thanks so much

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  25. The wait for the sunrise in photo #2 was definitely worth while - do you remember the time difference in #1 and #2?
    And that was good to hear Himself put/took himself out of his comfort zone and spent some time with you. See he does love you after all 😊

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    1. Cathy: I think it was less than half an hour between photo one and two. Himself was starting to get agitated - but it was worth the wait. I know he cares about me, but he is also addicted to sleep. And his sleeping abilities fill me with jealousy.

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  26. Very beautiful pictures ! I have never seen such a baloon parade. Must exist here too probably .

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    1. Gattina: Conditions in my city are often just right for balloons in early Autumn when the festival is held. I am always thrilled to see them.

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  27. A full and beautiful day! And one I'm sure you will remember for a long time.

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  28. I actually saw the dignity drop off box at Woolies last week, usually they tuck it away somewhere, but it was near the entrance this time.
    You had a lot of balloons this time, weather conditions must have been just right. I like the one which is an animal on a branch.

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    1. River: You are right - they often hide the drop off box, but they are front and centre in the stores near me this time too. Good.
      Tico the sloth looks good in the sky doesn't it?

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  29. The sheer beauty of that sunrise could induce me to get up every morning just to see it. How utterly beautiful, and then you had the spectacle of the balloons; truly the icing on the proverbial cake.

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    1. David M. Gascoigne: It was a very, very well iced cake that morning.

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  30. Dear EC
    Oh, that sunrise! Just stunning. The balloons looked pretty good too. You certainly had picked a good vantage point. (That balloon did look like Darth Vadar!)
    Have a good week
    Best wishes
    Ellie

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    1. Ellie Foster: We were incredibly lucky and revisiting my photos and the memories have me smiling broadly all over again. You have a good week too.

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  31. What beautiful photos of the darkness and sunrise - great captures! And the balloons are delightful. I'm not an early riser either, but I'm pretty sure I could get myself up to see those :D

    It seems to me that last year I saw donation boxes for period products at the same time you mentioned it for Australia - I must keep an eye out for them this year. Schools here have introduced free products in the washrooms, which is a good step. But sheesh, if this was a man problem, it wouldn't BE a problem, would it?

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    1. jenny_o: I was very worried that I would get himself up and have nothing to show for it. He (and I) were very lucky. Some schools here have also introduced free period products which is a good start. It doesn't help their older sisters, aunts and mothers. I agree that it wouldn't be an issue if men menstruated - which makes me very grumpy.

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  32. Beautiful photos! My older daughter would love Tico the sloth, as it's a family joke that she's a bit sloth like! I'm not an early riser and would probably just stay up all night to see them in the morning!

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    1. LL Cool Joe: I did think of suggesting that himself simply stayed up. It would work better for him than being woken I suspect.

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  33. Replies
    1. Gosia: Welcome back. You have been missed. I love balloons too.

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  34. The sloth hot-air balloon is so cute.
    -Quinley

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    1. Quinley: It is super cute - but I loved ALL of the balloons.

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  35. The sunrise pictures are outstanding. The hot air balloons are so cool to see. I see them by the mountains here every once in a while

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    1. Mary Kirkland: Thank you. It was an outstanding dawn - and balloons always lift my spirits.

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  36. Amazing photo's, especially the first couple where you capture the light and sun beginnings of the day. WOW! Glad you found such a vantage point to watch. So many colorful balloons. What a wonderful charity. Yes, I'm sure you're right here in the states dignity takes a back seat as well. Sad plight for women everywhere.

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    1. Sandy: It really was a dramatic and lovely start to the day - and a perfect backdrop for the balloons. Sadly, as jenny_o commented earlier if men had periods I don't think it would be an issue. Anywhere.

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  37. Dear friend! Sun-rise photos are perfect! I loved all of them. Really good shots.

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    1. bread&salt: Thank you. It was a perfect morning.

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  38. Yes, dark and still, so comforting. I could feel the stillness and almost catch a scent of the evening air and then you slowly bring forth all those incredible balloons, what a treat and the I agree the Air Force balloon quite a hit and the sloth but then each one had its own charm. Thank you for bringing us along. Enjoy your week.

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    1. 21 Wits: Dawn is probably my favourite time of day, but this dawn was special. And delightful. How I wish that more of you could have been there with me...

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  39. Glad you early birds caught the balloons, and some very picturesque sights.

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  40. Seems like a great event! Good snaps.

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    1. The Liberty Belle: Thank you. It is a great event.

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  41. Oh wow those orange hues you caught on the water are lovely.

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    1. John Wiswell: It was an incredible sunrise and the reflected colours blew me away.

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  42. Well it was certainly well worth getting up early to see all those balloons fill the sky however for me, seeing those glorious orange/red skies at sunrise were spectacular Sue. Great photos. Have a good week ahead.

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    1. Margaret Birding For Pleasure: It was DEFINITELY worth the early start - and would have been even without the balloons, which were a very generous bonus.

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  43. What a spectacular spectacle! I would have been enthralled.

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    1. gigi-hawaii: We were. And so were a lot of other people. Hundreds of people come to watch the balloons launch, despite the early hour and despite knowing that it might be a wasted trip. Mind you, with that sunrise it wouldn't have been wasted even if the balloons hadn't flown.

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  44. Oh wow so amazing. I have always wanted to go to a hot air balloon festival. The sloth one is adorable.

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    1. Hena Tayeb: If you get the chance, do it. It really is wonderful. And beautiful.

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  45. Stunning, stunning sky colors! The balloons are so fun as well.

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    1. Bea: The sky and the balloons were a complement to each other this year.

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  46. I love to see your pictures of this colorful balloon spectacle. Definitely worth getting up early for.
    A dignity drive? What a wonderful idea. We should have something like that here. I remember a few years ago I read somewhere - I think it was in the stall of a department store's bathroom - how awful it is if you're a refugee on the run and you get your periods. I had never thought of this before and since then I haven't forgotten it.

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    1. Carola Bartz: It really is a treat, and something I look forward to each and every year.
      Sadly the Dignity Drive is necessary. They are run at least twice every year and I make sure I contribute. Refugees, the homeless, and the simply poor. It is beyond wrong.

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  47. I forgot to mention that I like the sloth best!

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    1. Carola Bartz: There is a feature balloon (at least one) every year, but I love them all.

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  48. The photos are phenomenal! Please don't even think of being restrained with any of yours! Thank you.

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    1. Nilanjana Bose: Thank you for your always positive and uplifting comments.

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  49. Such beautiful balloons and the sunrise photos are amazing. I can see how it would have been a wonderful outing. Hope you have a great week my friend.

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    1. Mason Canyon: Thank you. It really was a special morning. Take care - and you have a great week too.

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  50. So happy to be reading your interesting posts and seeing your amazing photos again. The sunrise itself is worth getting up for - vibrant yellows and orange with that one balloon rising to the sky. I think hot air balloons are lovely to see and we do have these as annual events but I have never had the chance to attend one. Thanks for the pixs

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    1. kestrel: Our sunrises are generally much softer, and seeing that blaze over the water was definitely worth getting up and going out for. Thank you.

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  51. The Dignity Drive. So worthwhile. Good on you for being an active supporter.
    Oh that sunrise is gorgeous. Looks like you had all kinds of fun at the balloon rally. I like the Air Force balloon too and yes it is reminiscent of Darth Vader.
    YOU take special care.

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    1. Sandra Cox: Of course I am a supporter of such a worthwhile cause. We did have fun - and I am so glad we went.

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  52. I like to pretend sunrises are sunsets. It makes me feel better. 😁

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  53. Spectacular photos!! There is a definite Darth Vader vibe with the army mask.
    I like the name Dignity Drive. We have a few similar drives but with names like Period Purses which doesn't have the same ring :)

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    1. Jemi Fraser: The Dignity Drive is very, very well named isn't it. And dignity is something we force the poor and disadvantaged to do without too often. Much too often.

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  54. Beautiful photos, amazing colours xx

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    1. aussie aNNie: It was a truly beautiful morning.

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  55. Those early shots are so beautiful. I could almost "hear" the sun announcing a new day. Great images of the balloons, Sue. Thanks for the information about The Dignity Drive.

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    1. cleemckenzie: I am a big fan of sunrise, but rarely so dramatically rewarded. Having discovered the Dignity Drive a few years ago I am committed to supporting and promoting it.

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  56. Stupendous!

    The combination of that sunrise and the balloons is really special, EC.

    Just like those balloons, you have made our spirits soar.

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    1. Wally Jones: Wasn't it magical? There were some early birds (of the feathered variety) out and about too. Bliss.

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  57. I am thrilled that you had a delightful morning and spectacular sunrise. I hope you are still buoyant from the experience.
    Hugs

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    1. Sandra Cox: I am. Most definitely - and thank you.

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  58. Super! Especially that funny sloth! It was obviously worth while getting up so early in the morning. But I bet he won't want to do it again for a while.

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    1. Shammickite: It was getting up (and in my case going out) early. You are right that it won't set a precedent for him though.

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  59. I agree that dignity is often put on the back burner over need. That's a wonderful charity. The lake looks so beautiful in the early morning as the sun rises! Fun times seeing the balloons!

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    1. Rain: It IS a wonderful charity. Having found it, I am very, very happy to support it. And yes, our lake is lovely. At all times and seasons.

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  60. I love those sky pictures....and oh the balloons!!

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  61. That's a beautiful sunrise! I wonder if your city is partnered with Albuquerque N.M? We happened to be there one year, visiting old friends, at the time of their balloon festival and it was really spectacular.

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    1. molly: Our sister cities are in Japan. A balloon spectacular is an amazing sight isn't it? I have seen coverage of the one in Albuquerque and drooled...

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  62. I can't believe how very late I am visiting. My sincere apology.

    Seeing those balloons landing was as exciting as seeing them inflate and take off. This must have been a breathtaking sight. I'm so glad you both enjoyed the show, because I was quite impressed. Thanks for taking us with you to this fun and breathtaking event.

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    1. Bleubeard and Elizabeth: You are welcome whenever you drop by. Apology NOT necessary.
      The balloon spectacular is a delight and I look forward to it each and every year. I am glad that you enjoyed it too.

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  63. Such a beautiful sight. We went on a hot air balloon in Cappadocia Turkey and the views were breathtaking.

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    1. Nasreen: I have been on balloon flights and loved them - but you are right the views over Cappadocia would have been incredible. Himself has visited the area and loved it.

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  64. Además de la belleza del paisaje, está esa buena exhibición de globos. Muy buena secuencia, en tu serie de fotos.

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    1. VENTANA DE FOTO: Thank you for your kind words.

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  65. It is always a big deal to watch the balloons. Such a spectacular event to watch from inflation to deflation. Awesome that you got to go together. I'm glad it was a good time. :)

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    1. mail4rosey: It is a very big deal for me - and something I look forward to each year. I am glad that himself agreed to get up - and gladder that the balloons did fly that day.

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  66. I always enjoy your Sunday selections, and especially the balloons. Lots of designs too to bring a smile. Have you ever taken a ride? I haven't and as I get older my fear of heights seems to be even more so. Grateful to you for sharing these and for telling us about this very important charity.

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    1. DeniseinVA: Thank you. I have indeed been up in a balloon and loved it. As did the youngest of my brothers - who also has difficulties with height. Not long after the flight started he was using his elbows to get to the front and a better view...

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  67. Sue, all of your photos are spectacular! You've probably mentioned what camera you use, but I don't remember. Is it your cell phone or a "real" camera! :)

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    1. BECKY: Nice to see you here. This post is a mixture, but most of my photos are from my camera - a point and shoot. I struggle to take photos with my mobile. Level photos, or photos that don't include my fingers.

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  68. What a fabulous set of photographs to delight the eye. Thank you for beings such a wonderful shutter bug.

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    1. Kalpana: Thank you. It was a fabulous morning.

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  69. Yay for getting up early to experience such beauty and awe. The scenery looks lovely and what interesting balloons! We always love hen you share. Hope you've been feeling well, and sending lots of hugs, RO

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    1. RO: Thank you. It is always good to see you here and I hope that you too are well. Hugs received and reciprocated.

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  70. I especially love that sloth balloon.
    Sanitary pads are so expensive. At this juncture of my long and storied life I've traded the menstrual kind for the urinary incontinence kind. I'd be having to cough up a minimum of a hundred dollars a month if Medicaid didn't cover them.
    I was fortunate that once I was a teenager my family was in the middle class so they didn't have any trouble affording menstrual pads. It's shocking and saddening that some girls end up missing school because their families can't afford sanitary napkins.

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    1. Ornery Owl of Naughty Netherworld Press and Readers Roost (Not Charlotte): The sloth is good isn't it? Some places now issue free sanitary items to those at school - which doesn't help their mothers, older sister, aunts... This is a charity I am very glad to support.

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  71. Holy wow! These photos are stunning. I love the sloth!

    Ash @ Essentially Ash

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  72. Buenos días.

    En primer lugar decirte. que me alegro mucho de que hayas retomado tus publicaciones, porque es señal de que ya te encuentras mejor.
    Dicho esto, darte las gracias por compartir tan excelentes reportajes, éste y el anterior, porque nos muestras un espectacular lugar repleto de fantasía y colorido, que ya me gustaría algún día poderlo ver in situ.
    Buen fin de semana, amiga.

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    1. Manuel: Thank you so much. I am so glad that you enjoyed coming to the balloon spectacular with me - and hope you enjoy today's post too. Have a wonderful weekend.

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  73. These pictures are just stunning. What a sunrise with those balloons. The colors! So glad the balloons were able to take off and fly. So magical. I am glad you both had a wonderful time. Thanks for sharing!
    ~Jess

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    1. DMS ~Jess: It was indeed magical and I am so glad that we went. Himself is glad too.

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