Across the Basin

I leaned my chest over the cool, curved rim of the low stone birdbath. The water inside was clear and completely still. Near the mossy base lay a stiff, golden beech leaf curved into a hollow boat. Using both rounded paws, I lifted it carefully and set it onto the surface. It bobbed twice, then floated steady. I picked up an empty, papery acorn cap and placed it dead center inside the curled hull. It didn't take on a single drop. Leaning forward, I blew a slow, measured puff of air against the stern. My tiny ship glided silently across the mirror, cutting a clean wake all the way to the opposite stone ledge.