Up.. up.... and away flew my hopes of riding in the Administaff Holiday Balloon at Discovery Green. I went to the launch today with soaring hopes of having my first balloon ride. But, naturally, Houston weather had the upper hand.
I wasn't the only one with deflated hopes. Former President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush attended the launch with the same hopes. They actually made it into the balloon. (Presidential power has its perks.)
They cut the ceremonial ribbon, got into the balloon.... and then the wind picked up, and they had to get out. The former first lady definitely looked disappointed. It was as though the Houston weather gods were toying with us all.
What really boggles my mind is how Chicago, the Windy City, could host the balloon and we have trouble with it. You'd think it'd be a breeze in Houston but then you'd also think it wouldn't snow in Houston. Clearly our city doesn't like being placed in a box.
This weekend's weather forecast is for clear skies, so call me hopeful because I'm inclined to believe that this whimsical weather is on its way out. I'm looking forward to the ride and as soon as this weather blows through, I'm on my up.
Rides in the balloon opened to the public today at noon. These rides are dependent on weather so call the balloon weather hotline at 646-827-6287 ahead of time to check its availability.