Even though the weather forecast had been dismal, at best, the rain held off for the most part.  On Saturday afternoon I volunteered to sell tickets at the front gate.  Ticket sales were outstanding and the crowds were anticipating an exciting balloon ascension later that day.  They were not disappointed.  The balloons were able to lift-off 4 out of 5 times during the 3 day festival -  4 out of 5 flights is very good and none of the pilots were complaining.  The only flight that had to be cancelled was Sunday late afternoon.  Interesting point was that clouds and drizzle were lingering most of Friday and Saturday but Sunday was a spectacular day.  So even though the sun may be shining, it doesn't mean the balloons are permitted to fly.  All balloon pilots must follow strict FAA rules and regulations.  It was a bit too breezy and weather centers in Gray, Maine and Albany, New York had reported some fronts heading towards the Quechee area.  After a 1-1/2 hour delay, the Balloonmeister (who always has the final say), reluctantly cancelled the flight.  If weather conditions are questionable, the Balloonmeister may have to make his/her final decision only 15-30 minutes before the scheduled flight.  Passengers were disappointed but many of them said they would return to Quechee later in the summer and schedule another flight.  On Saturday, Darrek, our local pilot, performed his amazing feat once again.  For the 6th time, he flew his balloon UNDER the Quechee Gorge Bridge!  There is another story about his 5th flight under the bridge that is posted in one of my earlier earlier blogs.  My readers will find it quite interesting.  Darrek's passengers were elated and, of course, people that were in the vicinity of the bridge were amazed at what they witnessed.  On Saturday morning, my guests at the Inn were treated to Darrek's balloon landing on our back lawn.  Weather conditions were great and all 18 balloons flew over the Inn and its grounds.  My horses are used to the balloons but the excitment always gets them running.  I'll post more photos as they come in.