Yuma Hot Air Balloon Rally

The average rainfall in Yuma, Arizona is very low, but mother nature decided to let some of that rain fall during the rally.  Rain is very relaxing but makes for big puddles, mud and wet firewood. Friday evening we enjoyed happy hour and a pot luck dinner in the shelter of the clubhouse of the Riverfront RV park. The clubhouse has a certain rustic charm about it with various odd things hanging from the walls or ceiling. Sounds strange but you have to see it to “appreciate” it.




Saturday morning was still cool and overcast. The balloon launch field was very soggy so only a few balloons showed up. Never the less, a few of our bravest walked over to see what was happening……others stayed tucked in the warm rigs with their coffee or hot chocolate.

Tom and MaryAnn Cathey

Mike Parker

                                                                                                

The weather started to clear Saturday afternoon and after a good lunch at The Standard in downtown Yuma followed by a barbeque dinner at the clubhouse, we were finally able to enjoy a campfire.
   
Sunday morning was clear, calm and sunny allowing the hot air balloons to launch. Below you can see a few of them soaring in the distance with the Carle’s rig in the foreground. (photographed by Herb Sands)

Another gang of Shanty Shakers ventured down to the launch field and were treated to the ascension of about 35 hot air balloons. The reflection of balloons in the huge pond of rain water made for stunning photos!
 


Thanks to Nancy and Pete Thompson for hosting the rally…again! It was a fun time with lots of laughter, food and friendship ! Hugs to you !
If you were unable to attend, we missed you ! Here are a few random pictures.

Jim and Sharan Harrison 

Nice to see Don Smith there !

Loretta Armstrong

Jeanne Hawkins and others

John, Wendy P; Marci and Mike P, Herb Sands

And last but not least, a few “interesting” pictures from the Riverfront RV park.

same day service ????

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Annual Christmas Party Tuesday, December 3 at 12:00 noon. (see rally tab for details)

Monthly Chapter meeting, Saturday December 28 at 10:00am at Denny's

8th Escapees Happy Hour, January 15&16 1:00-3:00pm Quartzsite, AZ

NOVEMBER MEETING MINUTES click here

REMINDER: 2014 Chapter dues can now be mailed with the Chapter Membership Form to Sue Pace, Membership Chairperson