Taking the Field

Slipped out past the cracked sliding door and stepped right onto the porch deck. Big league territory now. Sun gleaming off the wood planks like stadium floodlights. Walked up to an upside-down terracotta flowerpot near the bench—classic halftime pedestal. Gave my foam finger an easy, practiced wave to the empty lawn, totally owning the arena. Right beside the rim sat a glossy red maple leaf, curved like a miniature cheering pennant. Tapped the leaf stem with the edge of my sneaker, pinning it secure against the clay. Kept my stance wide and chin high. The home team has officially arrived.