A Green Loop in the Dirt

Down from the porch I scrambled, pattering right into the soft garden path! Right along the edge of the mulch, something green and thick was coiled like a giant sleeping caterpillar. A garden hose! I leaned way in, nose nearly touching its ribbed skin. It felt cool and rubbery. At the end was an adjustable brass nozzle with tiny holes. I gripped the ribbed metal collar with both hands, gave a playful heave, and twisted it! Scritch-click! It clicked into a new groove, shaking loose a few dry flecks of bark right onto my toes.