Clear the Path

Basecamp indoors was tight and tidy, so I marched straight out the front threshold to recon the outdoor steps. Right on the second concrete riser, a broad, crisp autumn leaf was plastered flat across the tread, slick with morning dew and threatening traction. A major hazard for anyone descending! I lowered into a solid power stance, planted my boots on the rough aggregate, and gripped the stiff central stem with both hands. With a clean, steady heave, I broke its suction against the stone and dragged it clear into the soil border. Safe descent guaranteed!