This week at the Carrot Ranch, Charli Mills challenged writers to In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story using the phrase, “up and away.” You can imagine a story from the photo of hot air balloons, a flying superhero, a natural wonder, or any other direction your inspiration goes. Go where the prompt leads!
This is my response. I hope you enjoy it.
Up and Away
April placed a coin onto his palm.
“What will I make for you?”
“A magic balloon, please.”
He scanned her face, searched deep within her eyes, read her every wish.
“A magic balloon,” he said, selecting a dark blue.
He stretched it this way and that, then blew. As the balloon filled, the blue lightened and brightened. It shed sparkles that glistened in the sunlight. He knotted the end, held it out, then twisted and twirled and pulled it into a star.
He wound the ribbon around April’s wrist. “Up and away!” he whispered, as April was whisked aloft.
Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.
Note: The collection of stories made in response to the previous prompt Never Ending can be read at the Carrot Ranch here. Sadly, I didn’t get to join in with that prompt due to a (brief and mild) tussle with covid.
Norah Colvin 
Enjoyed this story about a magic balloon, Norah. What an uplifting, happy story. ~nan
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I’m pleased you enjoyed it. Thank you, Nan.
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So glad it was only a mild tussle … love this!
Reminds me of my magical umbrella … it appears to be a pretty blue but once it’s wet little flowers appear all over it! A sparkly blue against the lovely background 🙂
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I love the sound of your umbrella – gorgeous!
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I certainly think so, bought from the house with no steps gift shop!
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Is that close to you?
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yes only about 15 minutes drive … very near to where I lead meditations 🙂
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Nice. 🙂
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A sweet story Norah. ❤
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Thank you, Debby.
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What a wonderful dream. To see from on high what the world holds.
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I’d love to do that. 🙂
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The magic touch! Well done, Norah. Sharing…
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Thank you, Bette. 🙂
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My pleasure, Norah! 💞
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A very cute story. There is something about kids and balloons.
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There is. I wonder what will replace them. 🙂
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Lovely, Norah!
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Thank you, Jennie.
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You’re welcome, Norah.
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Your lovely flash reminded me of that Pixar movie Up. A fabulous story and not just for kids.
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I haven’t seen that one yet. I’ll have to look out for it. Thanks for the recommendation, Anne.
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love the whimsy of this one!
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Thank you, Beth. 🙂
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Excellent job, Norah. Balloons are a magical thing. In the next couple of years, one of my goals is to take a hot-air balloon ride.
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That would be fabulous, Pete. I think a hot air balloon ride would be amazing. I wish I was brave enough …
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