Canopy of Bark

Seeking shelter from the bright midday heat, I climbed onto the slatted cedar potting bench to fashion a quiet retreat. Beside an empty clay seedling pot lay a stiff, curved curl of dried bark and two rounded river pebbles. I wedged the two stones securely into a seam between the timber planks to serve as steady pillars. With measured care, I hoisted the bark overhead and rested it flush across the stones to create a miniature sloping awning. After a gentle tap confirmed its stability, I settled cross-legged beneath the cool strip of shadow, watching the bright garden breeze drift past.