Bridging the Trench

A flat wooden craft stick lay wedged beneath the roots of the cedar tree. I planted my feet firmly and worked both paws around the dry end, tugging until it pulled free from the dirt. It measured about four inches, rigid and smooth. I carried it across the packed soil to the muddy furrow left by bicycle tires. Laying the stick flat across the gap, I stepped onto the center with both paws to test the flex. It held without a creak. Now there is a reliable bridge across the trench.