Become

Rising in the dark

brisk, autumnal high desert air

segues into warmest wonder,

set ablaze

by fire and imagination.

We patrol at dawn for best vantage

from which to point and see

the annual show,

glowing with anticipation,

favorite unique characters comprise 

a colorful parade,

dazzling display 

dancing in our minds from years past,

celebration of newcomers 

with old friends and chosen family,

sky endlessly vast

The drop line, fuel tanks, liftgate, and load rings are 

all checked and given the go ahead.

Green light at the intersection of flight and fancy.

Baskets become filled

Burners become hot

Balloons become bouyant

People become mesmerized 

Days become memories 

Stories become special

Lives become enriched

Snaps capture shine and excitement

written across faces and the horizon

Rising individually, each craft,

part of the greater mass ascension,

gives lift to all worry and spirit,

grateful for presence and pause,

felt in every heartbeat.

Kaleidoscope confetti tossed in the air,

hesitant in returning to earth,

defying gravity for enjoyment of view.

Each envelope signed, sealed

and specially delivered to the heavens,

celestial choreography at its finest.

Ready each and every chase crew for

hopeful happy landings elsewhere, 

until our Reno rendezvous next year,

a harvest of homecoming,

The Biggest Little gathering 

as we do it all over again.