10/16/2026
We have the BEST, most GENEROUS passengers! ❤️🎈
When we started Rising Horizons Balloon Ride Co., our goal was never to simply take people up in a hot air balloon. It was to create lifelong memories, share our passion, and give people an experience they'll talk about for years to come.
And sometimes, our passengers remind us just how special those connections can be.
These two gifts absolutely blew us away!
🎨 The first is a beautiful mosaic created by one of our passengers, Diane. It unexpectedly showed up at our doorstep! Diane had created this piece just a couple of weeks before her very first balloon ride. Here's the crazy part... when she made it, she hadn't even booked her flight yet! After flying with us, she felt it was a sign that this artwork was meant to find its way to us. Diane, what an incredible talent!
🍪 The second gift came from Mary, a passenger from Des Moines who flew with us in Galena. When she learned we'd be attending the National Balloon Classic in Iowa, she sent us a care package! Along with some AMAZING walnut chocolate chip cookies (seriously, Mary, those were fantastic!), she created artwork featuring the Celtic knot design on one of our balloons. How thoughtful is that?!
Here's what really gets me...
People have busy lives. Jobs, families, responsibilities, and a million things competing for their time. Yet these two ladies took time out of their lives to create something special for us, simply because of an experience we shared together.
That's pretty darn humbling.
We're not in this business to load up a basket, fly around, collect a check, and move on to the next group. We genuinely LOVE what we do! We love sharing stories, laughing together, and watching people experience the magic of ballooning.
Knowing our passion made that kind of impression on someone? That means more than they'll ever know.
Diane and Mary, THANK YOU! ❤️
We're grateful for the gifts, but even more grateful for the friendships and connections this crazy little passion continues to create.
The balloon rides may only last an hour, but the memories and friendships can last a lifetime. 🎈❤️
