The Laundry Clip Catapult

I spotted a row of bright plastic clothespins clamped along the lower metal bar of the balcony railing! One yellow clip looked extra tight and springy. I didn't think twice—I hopped up, grabbed the pinching tail ends with both hands, and squeezed with all my plush strength! Clack! The mouth flew open, clamped down on a stray dried leaf, and when my paw slipped, the whole clip snapped shut with a sharp whip that flipped me clean onto a terracotta flower pot rim! I caught my balance on one foot, ears whipping through the breeze. Those little jaws have serious kick!