Sunday, August 16 (posted on 9/15/08)

Snookie has shamed me into getting busy so tonight I decided to load a few balloon pictures. On 8/17/08 Bruce celebrated his 60th birthday with a balloon ride which a gift from the kids. Everyone thought I was going with Bruce as his "guest" but as a 30th birthday present for Alex, I sent Alex with his Dad. Everyone was shocked. About 6:00 p.m. Bruce, Alex, Joy, James, Michael, Melissa, Amy and I drove out to Johnson County Executive Airport to meet Jason Jones from Old World Balloonary for the ride. Jason was patiently waiting for us.

Alex and Bruce received their instructions and signed their lives away.

The rest of us hung around. Standing: Melissa, Rob Henning, Amy, Sharon Pierson and her grandchildren Kori and Cody; Bev Henning. Sitting Joy and James Bruce and Alex went with Jason and the balloon while the rest of us followed. The basket was unloaded at an old airstrip.

Next came the envelope.

The pilot was about ready to load the basket with his passengers.

The last passenger jumped on board. And they were off.

All too soon they landed peacefully in front of Blue Valley Middle School.

I guess Bruce had to "go".

It was time to put away the envelope.

And the basket.

Now it was time for the "first flight" ceremony. It was a great evening and one that none of us will forget.