A Test of Stone

A fallen pinecone blocked the narrow path between the railing and a massive terracotta pot. I paused. The rough surface looked solid, heavy with dry soil. I set my boots wide against the weathered deck planks, lowered my stance, and dug my gloved palms into the curved clay base. One deep breath. I drove through my legs and shoved with everything I had. The pot scraped forward an inch over the wood, leaving a clean track in the dust. The pinecone rolled free. A worthy obstacle.