Setting Sail

Slipping beneath the terrace door frame, the cool morning air drew me across the patio to where a shallow pool of rainwater had collected in a hollow flagstone. Beside the mossy seam lay a stiff, curled magnolia leaf, its edges swept upward like the hull of a miniature boat. Kneeling on the cold stone, I nestled a smooth, hollow acorn cap inside its center to serve as steady ballast. With a gentle, measured shove from both hands, I guided the leaf vessel out onto the glassy water. It glided effortlessly across the surface, trailing faint circular ripples through the mirrored sky before coming to rest in the tranquil center.