Buoyancy

Carley and Mama Cyndi had a birthday party. They may have gotten
presents, but I've claimed their balloons for my own, and I used
them to illustrate to my Manny the principle of buoyancy. I explained
that the balloon's ability to "float" is evidence of the lower atomic
weight of helium (which fills the balloon) relative to the higher atomic
weights of nitrogen and oxygen, which surround the balloon and are the
primary components of our atmosphere. Then I spent a good hour or so just
yanking on the ribbons, and making the balloons jump up and down.




Today was beautiful day to hang out on the porch with a balloon or two,
just enjoying the sunshine and the breeze. In truth, it's been magnificent
lately, with broad green leaves suddenly draping the trees, and sweet
blossoms blooming everywhere you look. My Manny says that this is
about as fine a season as a person has a right to expect, and that
I'm fortunate to have it for my first Spring. He says that sometimes
Winter hangs on forever, and then it suddenly snaps into the heat of
Summer, and that leaves a body feeling cheated. But not this year.
This year it's perfect balloon weather.