Well, here we go, and I didn't lose any sleep over this (not with the switch from daylight saving time). As this was my first time ever judging photos, I just went with what grabbed me. There were some awesome balloons displayed, but these are my choices:
FIRST PLACE: to Gouvy for the Dad & child and green balloon painting. Children are fascinated with balloons and this tells a moving story. I kept coming back to it.
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SECOND PLACE: to rizole for the Rynys Farm photo you didn't want to submit. I liked the arms reaching out. It's rather unique and we need more "niques" in the world.
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THIRD PLACE: to mwolfer (Mel) for the hot air balloon with tulips. A simple shot with bright colors.
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HONORABLE MENTIONS: to Gouvy's Balloon Talk and 2 for ImageArt (Ann) for the Hanoi shot of the bike rider with balloons and the curiosity shop. Fun pictures.
OK, GroovyGouvy, the ball"oon" is in your court.