Page 8 - Up Up and Away

Now, as she headed toward the mountains, she spied

Whistler where all the skiing is done in winter, and where

Mirabel's Uncle Nick often goes mountain biking. The

mountains had snow on top, even though it was summer.

You have to be very attentive to weather in a balloon.

Twinkle knew this and kept a close watch on the wind

and clouds.

A golden eagle flew by and hovered near the balloon.

It was a huge beautiful bird, with fearsome claws. But the

bird spoke through her curved shiny beak:

I give you my blessing, Twinkle,

for you will see weather.

For protection, I give you a magic feather.

Twinkle knew that eagle feathers have magical

properties. You were never supposed to take one - it had
to be a gift. It promised the power to see far, as well as

strength and courage, all gifts she would need. At least

there was no mention of turning blue.

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