A Crisp Oak Leaf

Tired of the indoor rugs, I slipped beneath the back screen door out onto the porch steps. Chirp? Right on the weathered gray plank lay a pale, dried oak leaf with curled tips. I paused, tilting sideways to inspect the deep curve of its underside. Taking a light, inquisitive hop forward, I stepped directly onto its ribbed center. A sharp, crisp crunch resonated through the wood, startling me into a tiny backward bounce! Once the tremor faded, I crept back and nestled against the leaf's curled rim, enjoying the fresh outdoor air.