Happy Birthday to Me!

Since a little girl, I’ve enjoyed my birthdays and celebrate way before and  after!

Me with my little sister Marian

This year’s a big one though . . . and I’m excited! I’m turning 75 years old this month. Exciting especially because I’ve finally realized two very long-time and major accomplishments: staying in a tree house and going up for a ride in a hot air balloon.

We left Arizona heading across the country generally along the old Route 66.

Tucumcari, New Mexico

The further east the more brilliant the fall colors  . . . finally arriving in Hocking Hills, Ohio.

 Our sweet little tree house, the Safari, was cozy and nestled “Among the Trees.”

We left Ohio for Chicago and, while there, visited the Morton Arboretum and their Human+Nature exhibit. Exquisite!

Once back home in Arizona, we headed up to Sedona for another very special  birthday present . . .  a hot air balloon ride. Another dream I’ve had for many years finally accomplished!

Before they start filling the balloon
Starting the inflation process with big fans
Further filling the balloon with the hot air now
And up in the air!
There were three balloon teams that took off over the Red Rocks of Sedona that day.
The beauty of the Red Rocks and the shadow of our “little” balloon

And the special ones who provided this wonderful gift: my sister Marian, my dear Yellowstone friend Jackie, and my very special partner Steve.

Sister Marian and Yellowstone friend Jackie on either side of me.
Sister Marian and partner Steve on either side of me.
They’ve now opened the very top to start letting out the air as we descend.
The ground crew packing that huge balloon (about 700 lbs!) into its stuff sack
What a wonderful birthday present. Thank you Steve, Jackie and Marian!

I’ve had a pretty wonderful birthday celebration thus far . . . and my actual birthday isn’t for a few more days. I’m just beginning!