A Bumpy Neighbor

Curious about the bumpy ornamental gourd nestled against the porch railing, I carefully eased my rounded base down to the next wooden step. Its skin had deep, speckled ridges and felt surprisingly firm and cool when I nudged my mitten against it. After being surrounded by soft indoor fabrics and smooth polished floors, touching such a textured, earthy surface was completely unexpected. I gave it a gentle, polite pat to make sure it wouldn't roll away, resting my green parcel lightly alongside it while enjoying the quiet midday stillness out here.