Ten years later

We spent our Sunday evening with others in the neighborhood, enjoying the music of the Utah National Guard 23rd Army Band. Though the day had been warm with only a few clouds, just into the concert a strong wind kicked up and things started tipping over and flying off. And then the temperature dropped and people started using their blankets for warmth as well as for seating. But the band played on. They played music that celebrated and mourned the good and the sad that came from that dark day in our nation's history 10 years before, Sept. 11, 2001.

When I looked at this picture the next day, I noticed that despite the sunbreak, all in view from the angle I was shooting is dark. All except the American flag.

Floating

Benjamin Franklin saw the first flight of a manned hot air balloon, according to Kent Barnes. And that flight took place years and years before winged flight. Balloons can change direction by flying at different altitudes since the winds at different heights go in different directions. They can go aloft thanks to hot air, though if it's already hot outside they may not be able to carry as much weight. Some balloons use gases like helium and can stay aloft longer. They can be 70 feet tall and hold 65,000 to 105,000 cubic feet of air. Barnes pilots hot air balloons, owning several of the 3,000 in America. He's passionate about the hobby and you can tell by his smile he is still having as much fun as the people he welcomes into the wicker basket to float just above the earth for a spell.