A Way Out to the Porch

I set out from the cabinet trail toward the patio glass to scout a path to the outside. Right along the metal sliding track, a small, dried pinecone was jammed tight, blocking the smooth slide of the screen door. If someone shoved the door in a hurry, it could send things rattling or get stuck fast. Planting my boots against the aluminum ridge, I wrapped both arms around the woody scales and gave a hearty, determined tug. With a satisfying snap, the cone popped loose into my hands. I rolled it neatly into the corner by the doorframe, clearing the groove completely for when we're ready to head outside.