Yeah -- and this is true -- my first hot air ballon ride was commisioned through a bar in Albi, NM. We got out there at some unholy hour, and met out guy on a plateau where all the baloon folks meet on the Sandia.

The gondola was this little aluminum contraption he refered to as of a 'racing balloon'. I think the three of might have had room to fart.

The ride was great! We landed 35 miles out of range, with a 25 knot cross [that is when I figured out why he made the thing out of aluminum rather than some natural material] I think the wind drug us about a half mile on the ground before the basket hit a ridge.

I'd do it again manana, but it just wouldn't be the same.

And Chris, pardon the f'ing language.