AdventurousSpirit

Whimsy By Brie Lauren Shernisky

This watercolor painting was inspired by a real life story. My then four year old son wanted to see if his favorite hedgehog stuffed animal would float with helium balloons. I thought this would be a fantastic learning opportunity! So I bought a small tank of helium with balloons and we began measuring the weight of "Hedgie" in a small balance scale designed for children. I wrote this poem to tell the story of our experience. I hope you enjoy! "Adventurous Spirit” Can we make “Hedgie” fly? Oh, Why not?! said I. All started out a simple guess How many balloons? Began the test. Hedgie sat in balance scales as helium filled her colorful ‘sails.’ Calculate our “lift” Smiles abound, What a gift! Measure weight by the gram, Don’t forget to snap the cam! 1 balloon, add 2, then 4 Soon 2 turned into 24, Just enough to skim the floor. Then 48! This number still was not too great. Balloon stash is now depleted, Jubilation not defeated! Inside Hedgie content to hover Gentle lift How we do love her! Well, time is a wasting Outside! Memories are in the making! Balloon troop floats out the door Only Mr. Sun knows whats in store... Document our ambition, See it through to fruition! “Gust” the wind blew our direction, Perhaps our calculation needs correction? As soon our smiles turn to panic Froze we stood Then quickly frantic! Over rooftop, outta sight, Will we get Hedgie back?! We might... Daddy’s first to respond Dashes in and ties his laces Off he goes, to the races! Mommy, young one and toddler too all go in to find their shoes. Cooly, calmly, do walk we. Off to seek out brave Daddy. We say a prayer, Hear our pleas! Instant peace we did receive. This way? That-a-way? Who’s to say? A neighbor boy is out at play: Have you seen our bunched balloons? “Yes” he said, “I think they’re doomed” “Pops were heard, and then they stopped.” “Over our fence, the wooded lot.” “May we see?” said hopeful 3. Respectfully, proceeded we. Too much nerve? Could be debated... My proper manners, a bit belated. Colors peeked through tiny crack In the distance, Daddy’s back! Over, Under he did crouch With a grimace and many an “ouch!” “Hedgie lodged between two trees” A hero’s journey, no one sees. Lots of shimmies and a shake To Daddy’s arms did Hedgie make! Thank you boy, Thank you God! In peace we ran our feet now shod. Head to toe, Daddy’s covered Drenched in Texas heat of summer. Cuts and scratches, itchy rashes, To him his grateful family latches! Hedgie’s safe! We all sing praises A story to share through the ages. -Brie Shernisky 2-7-2021