Try Something New

I love “experience” gifts. Restaurant gift cards, tickets to events, or a membership to something fun. I like to do more than I like to have. For Christmas in 2004, I was so excited when my Dad gave my husband and me a hot air balloon ride as our gift! Two weeks later I found out I was pregnant with Maybelle so our plans were delayed, by about, oh, nine months or so.

The following year, we made our reservation. We dropped the kids off at with my Dad and headed for the field. On the way there, it occurred to me that I was going to be clinging to a basket while a fire above my head inflated a balloon that was carrying me around.

Was I out of my mind? I had two little kids! A dog! A bushel of tomatoes that needed to be canned! So much to live for… I secretly prayed that our trip was canceled. We got to the field and – oh miracle of miracles – they called and canceled. It was too windy. They were so sorry. My husband was so disappointed. I was so praising God.

It wasn’t until the following year that our schedules matched up and we could try again. This time, I confessed to my husband on the way to the field that I was scared to death. He had comforting words, “You’ll be fine, babe. Holy crap! That balloon is HUGE!”

It was huge. In a hot air balloon, the passengers are also the crew. Everyone worked together to unfold this massive thing.

We hoisted each other up into the basket, and I held onto my husband with one hand and the edge with the other. I tried not to move my feet, just in case there was a weak spot in the basket I might fall through. And then – we were off.

And it was amazing.

So smooth, so quiet, so calm. By the time we brushed the tree tops I was completely relaxed. The ride was over two hours long, and we saw deer, beautiful Michigan fall colors, and a small aircraft (we had the right of way).

When it came time to land, we had to look for a spot. That’s right, there isn’t a specific place; you just hope Farmer Ted is friendly and you don’t scare his horses too much. Then that massive balloon we all worked together on to unfold? Exactly the same thing; but in reverse. Just as the sun went down we got the balloon put away, and busted out the champagne for a mini-celebration in the middle of a field.

I loved this experience. I loved that I was scared to do it, but still did it. I loved that I didn’t just tolerate it; I enjoyed it. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Even if you are – do it anyway!