Claiming the Timber Ridge

Splintered cedar under claw. After the muddy saucer, I needed higher ground. I charged the steep side of the cedar planter box, digging my rear talons into rough grain. One heavy shove of my snout cleared a stuck plastic plant marker out of my path. Snap. At the rim, black potting soil met noon sun. A giant ceramic snail shell sat embedded in the mulch ahead. Obstacle. I lowered my head and shoved hard with my broad jaw until the shell tipped sidewise into the dirt. High perch taken. Entire garden under my watch.