The Fresh Print

I climbed onto the study work table and walked across the green cutting mat. Resting beside an open ink pad was a square rubber stamp topped with a smooth wooden knob. I planted both feet firmly to test my balance before leaning in. Grasping the turned handle with both hands, I pressed the rubber face squarely down into the red sponge. I shifted two steady paces over to a blank index card, braced my stance, and leaned my full weight onto the top. The rubber met the paper with a soft, yielding press. When I lifted the stamp away, a crisp red leaf pattern sat cleanly in the center. I held my footing, watching the wet ink shine.