Filling the envelope

What a way to start the day!

I got up at 4:15AM - checked the weather forecast. All good - the flight is on!

Met the ballooning company at 5:30AM at the agreed rendezvous point. We took a coach trip out of town, unloaded the balloon and inflated it just as the sun was rising. This is the inside of the balloon (or envelope) during inflation.

Took a stunning journey across the canterbury plains, up to 6,000 feet. Perfect weather conditions. Fantastic start to the day.

We landed at 9:00AM and cracked open the champagne (a ballooning tradition).

I'm buzzing. I'm kind of still up there. Woo hoo!

Here's another shot taking during the flight.