A Notch for the Wind

A wooden clothespin lay propped open on the lower balcony rail, held by a small dry twig stuck in its metal coil. I walked along the cool metal runner, planting each foot carefully. The evening breeze was picking up. Anchoring my hind legs against the firm railing frame, I tapped the narrow wire hinge with my front paw. The twig snapped and tumbled over the side. Snap. The weathered wooden jaws snapped shut, clamping squarely onto the flat steel lip. The ledge was secure. I rested my paws on the cool metal, looking out into the quiet evening.