We caught the laser show again this morning and a slightly smaller but equally impressive Dawn Patrol but the real attraction for today is the Special Shapes Rodeo. Today all the non-standard shape balloons are to be out, even more than were mixed in yesterday.  I can’t wait.

We do have to wait a bit though. First all the bucket listers; some 60+ today then a few more standard balloons take flight as we wait for the call on weather that will decide if the larger, more unwieldy, special shapes can in fact inflate.  Yes, looks good.  The cold air fans are working hard and all manner of odd shape and color begin to come to life.  One stands, it’s a dragon or dinosaur of some sort.  Many more are taking form all around us.  Then it hits; a microburst of wind.  Handlers scramble to control the half-inflated forms that make gigantic sails.  Spectators, passerby, and even police grab ropes and hang on.  It is a bit of chaos but it looks like everyone is successful in getting their charges under control.  Crews start through prep again, closing vent flaps and aligning ropes as they ready to try again if the controller gives the go ahead.  We wait.  The word is “no lift off but they will inflate and hold on the ground”.

Even grounded they are amazing. Fantastic colors and shapes all jumble together.  Tweety Bird peeks out from behind Humpty Dumpty.  Hey, Sylvester is here too.  There is Darth and Yoda along with fanciful sea creatures, bugs, birds, and the huge lovable cow.  I know I can’t name them all and I don’t think I can name a favorite.  Even pictures don’t do the experience justice.  Wow!

The wind begins to build and show time is over. The wonderful creatures just sort of melt to the ground as handlers release the vents.

We watched tonight’s laser show and fireworks from the roof of the motorhome. Not bad for a show that is about a mile away.  Tomorrow we will check them out from a bit closer at the launch field.  It has been another great day.