Welcome to another bonus episode of Calm History, an extra treat from my SOC Plus members.

In archive episode number 31, I covered the history of Balloon Flight.

Well, now you get to hear the actual experiences of Gertrude Bacon, one of the early pioneers of

Balloon Flight. You'll find the stories of her flights in this episode to be relaxing

and inspirational, but also funny and scary at times.

In the near future, I'll stitch together both of these episodes about balloon flight

into a one-hour extended bonus episode for my SOC Plus members, so stay tuned for that.

But for now, lean back, put up your feet, and settle into my time machine of tranquility. I hope this episode distracts and relaxes your overactive brain squirrels.

The Adventurous Balloon Flights and relaxes your overactive brain squirrels. The adventurous balloon flights of Gertrude Bacon.

You're about to hear the curious details of two balloon flights made by Gertrude Bacon.

Our first balloon journey is a relaxing one. It's almost a guided

imagery session. You'll be able to visualize floating over the towns and cities of England

as you slowly drift off to sleep.

If you're still awake for the second balloon adventure,

then be prepared for a nail-biting adventure that will be sure to distract your squirrels.

Don't worry, though. No one dies,

but there will be panic in the skies, and one hot mess of a landing.

But let me start with, who the heck is Gertrude Bacon? Well, she wasn't the first woman to ride in a balloon. That occurred in 1784 by the French woman, Elizabeth Sibble. Instead, Gertrude Bacon would be the first British woman to fly in a

balloon,

which occurred in 1898.

And I've chosen to highlight her because her life and achievements were quite Shazamablamma.

Yeah, I made that word up,

...