Sunday, June 16, 2013

Balloon Fest and Star Party

Enjoyed a day off before our star party by visiting Norwich farmers market. Route 5 is a meandering rural road through White River Junction and Wilder to Norwich. A side trip to river access in Wilder was quite an adventure with this one lane bridge presenting a conundrum.

Wouldn't want to drive this route every day...










Kilowatt Park on the Connecticut River is a pleasant little green space with river access and fishing. Northern Flicker was a new species for the list along with Cardinal.






The farmers market was a mishmash of fresh veggie, homemade jams and breads, potting plants, and crafts with a few food booths. A trio of local musicians provided entertainment with banjo, fiddle, guitar, and some clogging on a 2 ft square dance floor. We bought fresh radishes, haven't tasted any so good since I had my own vegetable garden.

Stopped by King Arthur Flour established in 1790, offering more kitchen gadgets and baking supplies than I ever knew existed. They also have a bakery cafe and a baking education center offering 1 - 3 day classes.  Smelled divine. We only browsed and sampled a quinoa salad.

Hot air balloons lifted off about 7 PM, passing right over the park.


Sounds like fire breathing dragon....


















Set up the scope about 40 minutes before sunset and campers began to gather in anticipation. Had about 40 total before the end. Several kids showed lots of interest, too.

I spent the first 40 minutes waiting for dark showing the first quarter moon and explaining craters, maria, terminator, and answering questions.

As darkness increased we named the first stars to appear,

Saturn was actually the second "star" and undoubtedly was the star of the evening. Love those "OOHS" and "AAHS" when someone sees the ringed planet for the first time. Located Mizar and Alcor in the handle of the Big Dipper, observed satellites passing overhead, and traced constellations.

An added bonus was the paper balloons being launched from various locations looking like fiery Japanese lanterns.

We wrapped up about 10:30, tired but satisfied.





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