It was Sunday night and Maloon, Paloon, Lealoon and Hannaloon were floating at the table. Paloon was out of work and needed to find a job. He said, “It is hard to find balloon work these days. Some jobs are not safe and you could get popped.” Maloon said, “I am sure you will find a job Pa, you are the best!” Ma always said nice things to people and that is why they love her so.

Leallon said, “You get job, Pa, no worry.” Paloon said, “Thanks honey, I will try my best.”

The next day Paloon looked for a job at the circus. The ring master said, “Mr. Paloon, we need you to float along on a string at the start of our show. Our star elephants will carry the string in his trunk. Do you think you can do that?” Paloon asked, “Is it safe? Is there any chance that I will get popped? I have a family.”

“Well maybe. The last balloon got popped when the human cannonball flew into him. POP! It was touch and go, but the medics did a great job fixing him up. He can’t hold as much helium as before, but he will be ok. After a pause, the ring master asked, “Are you a brave balloon sir?”

Paloon said, “Bravery is not the point. Like I said, I have a family. Are there any other jobs?” The ring master said, “Not really.” Paloon said, “Thank you,” and left.

The next day, Paloon tried for another job. The job sounded fun. He would be part of a football game. He drifted into the meeting wearing his best ribbon.

The man in charge said, “Mr. Paloon, you and nine hundred other balloons will be let go from the 50 yard line. Then the players will run onto the field. Then four Air Force jets will zoom over the field with a mighty roar! Would you like the job?”

Paloon asked, ”Will we be close to the jets when they fly over? I don’t want to get popped, I have a family.”

The man in charge said, “Once we let you go, you are on your own. Jets are not our concern, we have a football game to put on.” He then said, “You look like a smart balloon sir, do you want the job?”

Paloon said, “It sounds fun, but I have to think of the family, I think I’ll pass.” Paloon then left.

Paloon read the want ads in the newspaper as he rode the bus. This job sounds safe. It is a kids birthday party. He called the people up and got the job. He had to be there soon. Before the party, he shined his surface and curled his ribbon. He then went to the party.

Palloon was surprised when he saw the kids laughing and screaming as they sat on balloons and tried to pop them! As fast as he could, Paloon drifted to the fan that blew him out the window. What a close call!

Paloon was sad as he came home. Maloon came over and gave him a kiss. She said, “Paloon, don’t be sad. I found the best job for both of us!”

That night, Palloon and Maloon drifted over a dinner table. They were tied to a vase of flowers. It was Valentine’s day for Paloon, Maloon and the people. Palloon felt safe. He felt good. He could now buy the helium his family needed.

Lealoon and Hannaloon loved their Pop . . . because he didn’t.