A Crisp Pinecone Challenge

Being tucked inside all day yesterday made me itch for fresh morning air, so I slipped straight past the front screen door. Right on the second wooden step, a cluster of dry fallen pine needles was tangled across a weathered maple seed pod. Taking it step by step, I braced my feet against the grain and used both hands to sweep the prickly needles aside until a clear, smooth runway appeared. Then I lined up two winged maple pods side by side like tiny gliders. Tapping one with my sandal toe sent it skittering across the smooth plank in a crisp spin. Starting the morning outside felt completely energizing!