Chameleon

The shadow is from a second balloon launching at the same time.

N257P

[6x7 220 Film Scan Kodak]

"November Two Five Seven Papa" being filled with hydrogen for its historic flight August 4, 2010.  The gang was there.

Quick Dinner Tonight

Goat Cheese Crisp Salad

[iPhone Image]

Light walnut vinaigrette, fried goat cheese.   

Starting With The End

Wanted to start with the end of the Sunday flight.  On weekends I try and get up very early to crew on Chameleon-though truth be told, this day I was shooting the Mamiya 6x7 camera and that takes a long time.  Afterwards, Captain Dale tells us about the early history of ballooning and receites the Balloonist's Prayer.

And of course, we toast.

[35mm Film Scan FujiColor ISO 200]

And and of course, let's not forget our gratuitous display of skin.

[35mm Film Scan FujiColor ISO 200]

Chappell Hill Day Today

As I have mentioned before, ballooning would be so much more fun if I could have my Starbucks, and a leisurely brunch before we started.  I never seem to be able to get to bed when I need to, and morning comes awfully early. Dale studies weather reports during the week and by Friday night he makes the call:

Dale, "Chappell Hill tomorrow, meet at the usual place by 6:15."  

Angel (whimpering), "AM?"

Dale (laughing), "AM."

  The usual place?  The Lazy Mule Saloon. From 290 you turn south on Main Street (Farm to Market 1155) for about a block until you reach FM1371.  You can't miss it.   I have never been inside when it was open.  But I got there early for once!

Lazy Mule Saloon, Chappell Hill, Texas

We drive across 290 on main street and a right on Providence St. until you come to the museum and we start getting the balloon ready for flight.  (Drag the man to the corner of Church and Haller Streets for a view.)   We are laying out the envelope (balloon) and we start the fan for the initial inflation.

[35mm Film Scan FujiColor ISO 200]

Beau(L), Bob(Center) and Dale(R)

And the burners come on-line.

[35mm Film Scan FujiColor ISO 200]

And off they go!

[Provia 100F (E-6) cross processed in C-41]

[Provia 100F (E-6) cross processed in C-41]

I shot some FujiChrome Provia 100F slide film and got it cross processed in C-41.  Interesting...

To Be Continued...