Leaf Sled Run

I squeezed right under the loose front gate into the open sidewalk. Freedom! Right along the curb edge sat a giant, crinkly amber maple leaf, stiff as cardboard. A personal sled! I dragged it onto the sloped asphalt apron. Stood right on the thick stem base. Both feet locked tight. One hard backward shove with my heel—whoosh! The leaf skittered down the smooth driveway slope. Crisp rasps buzzed through my soles. Halfway down, the leaf snagged on a tiny pebble and spun me sideways. I tumbled off, landed flat on my chest, and popped straight up. I froze, eyes wide. Best ride ever!