As I scrabble

on the floor

trying to stretch tight muscles,

my dogs see this

as their cue to interact.

They come to me

smiling, wagging their tails,

which, along with guttural noises

show their pleasure

at this possibility.

As I pat them,

I am repeatedly licked on the arm

as they wiggle around

so that I get the ‘right’ spot.

Such a simple activity

greeted by such joy

is humbling.

I am not a dog owner.

I am a steward,

A caretaker

and so much richer for it.