But our pilot, "Wild Bill," (radio name "Maverick") wanted go go rogue and launch from the west so he didn't get scalped for landing in the Indian reservation nearby. (seriously!)

Balloon is first filled with cold air using large fans.

It takes about a half an hour to fill the "envelope."

Our balloon is 85 feet tall.

Bucket List Item #58! ;-) (birthday 2 days away!)

We aren't the only balloonists "goin' rogue."

Once the balloon is partially filled with air, they turn on the burners.

Propane is used to heat the air. An average flight uses about 30 gallons.

The heat causes the "envelope" to rise. A typical balloon holds about 90,000 cu feet of air.

The pilot crawls inside as the basket starts to tip...

Passengers climb in, and we are ready to go, Toto!

The "dragon's roar!"