Testing the Ramp

A curled strip of dried tree bark was leaning against the large terracotta planter, looking suspiciously like a playground slide. Could a round seed roll all the way down without catching on the ridges? I paused, resting my chin thoughtfully in my palm to study the angle. The bottom edge was digging straight into the moist soil, which would stop any ride instantly. I scavenged a smooth slate pebble and wedged it right under the lower lip to make a smooth exit. Then, I carefully released an acorn cap from the top! It clattered down the wooden curve with a sharp rattle and skated neatly onto the brick patio.