A Leafy Adventure

I pushed through the open patio screen door to feel the real outdoors for the very first time! Down between the sun-warmed stone pavers, a giant fallen maple leaf caught my eye. It looked like an enormous golden umbrella! I trotted over, wrapped my paws around the stiff stem, and gave it an earnest tug. It popped free from a tiny mossy crevice, releasing a deep, earthy scent of damp bark and soil. I hoisted the leaf right over my shoulder like a true explorer's expedition banner, ready to hike all the way across the wild garden lawn.