Elevating the Vantage Point

I set my wheels against the compacted soil of the corner planter box, checking each turn for solid footing. The steady draft from the courtyard was stronger up here. I found a sturdy fallen twig hooked between two bamboo stakes and carefully nudged it level across the rim. Standing at the edge gave me an unobstructed view of the courtyard trees swaying below. I pressed a pale yellow blossom petal against the rough bark to test the updraft. The petal lifted cleanly, drifting north in a smooth arc. My survey grid now reaches beyond the balcony floor.