The Shoehorn Slide

I wriggled out of the wool beanie and tiptoed toward a long plastic shoehorn wedged between two sneakers—gasp! Its smooth, glossy curve stretched all the way from the shelf edge down to the floor like a miniature bobsled run. What if the slick surface sent me hurtling into the baseboard at breakneck speed?! I held my breath, froze completely to listen for footsteps, and cautiously gripped both curved edges with trembling fingers. Total silence. Gathering every drop of courage, I dropped onto my stomach and nudged myself over the crest. Whoosh—gasp! The rush made my stomach flip, but my boots skidded gently to a halt right on the woven mat. Phew... rapid descent conquered!