Grounding the Marker

I slipped past the back patio screen to get some fresh air and check the perimeter along the garden bed. Tucked beneath the broad leaves of a hosta, a notched cedar plant stake had tipped over sideways in the dark mulch. I slung my crossbow over my shoulder, marched right into the dirt, and gripped the damp wooden post with both hands. Bracing my boots against a flat border stone for solid traction, I hoisted it upright and drove the tapered end deep into the earth. I rolled three smooth pebbles tight against the base to anchor it against the breeze. It stands firm and steady once more.