When I slide on my belly
up to her shoulder
in the warm morning darkness
My tail softly thumping
steadily
against her naked hip
She rubs my head with her thumb
Hugs my slender body
close
She says
“You. You are the one.
Our baby dog
Our little boy puppy.
We cherish
days
that go so fast
We watch your wonder
with awe
Remembering our own
Marveling at your curiosity
A reminder
to be more so ourselves
We take seriously our job
to keep you safe and whole
While you’re busy becoming.”
“Mom”
I say
“Your breath…”.