Chalk and Hops

A bright yellow chalk line stretched across the courtyard flagstones. I paused. It was a neat grid of numbered squares drawn on the smooth stone. Step by step, I lined up my orange feet before the first box. I bent low. With a firm push, I gave a sturdy little hop straight forward. Both feet landed squarely inside number one with a soft thump. A tiny puff of yellow chalk dust drifted upward. I tilted forward and spread my flippers to steady my balance. Ahead, square two lay waiting. I rocked onto my heels, ready for the next leap. I gave a slow, determined nod.