Download The Thimbles

The Thimbles rarely spent time apart, until the day that the Thimble wife, a daredevil at heart, rejected her spouse’s cautionary pleas and attached herself to the near-flaccid birthday balloon tethered to a low bush in the park. She ran full speed, catching a breeze, and the balloon lifted above the greenery.

The three Thimble children shouted to their mother. Galivant Thimble showed his concern: “Please come down, Mother! Or if you won’t, please be careful!” But both Aurora and Thumbelina Thimble wished they were along for the ride. “Go, Mamá! Higher! Higher!”

Father Thimble stood with his mouth wide open, so wide and for so long that a dragonfly, two butterflies, and a tiny finch all flitted in and out of it multiple times.

Park goers below squinted at the tiny being in flight. The thrill ride wouldn’t last. The balloon sank, dropping into an enclosure of herds of dogs. A singular hound lopped toward the balloon and lapped up the rider in one gulp.

The remaining Thimbles returned to their home feeling very sad at their loss. Several days later, a knock sounded on the door, and behind it they found Mother Thimble, looking drenched and disheveled but otherwise fine.

“What happened, mama?” They all asked her.

“It was a very hot day, children, and when the dog opened his mouth to pant, I simply rolled off his tongue.”