I loved the fresh air,
the crisp grass beneath my paws
as I spent my days free in your backyard.
Hunting for bunnies and birds,
each day was a new adventure.

Exploring the neighborhood,
there was always something new to see and smell.
Sitting on the hay bale,
I was the king of my part of the world.
Climbing trees,
I knew my strength and could view
even more of my idyllic kingdom.

Catching mice in the garden,
I earned your praises for my cat-like work.
It was fun!

Following you across the street to the mailbox,
I loved being wherever you were.
Watching you play on the tire swing
captivated my attention.
Never a dull moment with you here.

Rolling around in the driveway,
I showed you I was happy.
Lying in the warm sunlight on your front step,
I couldn’t feel more at home.
Listening to the crickets and the wind,
watching the sun rise and set firsthand,
who could ask for more?

And smelling the brisket you had on the smoker,
keeping my eye on it,
I knew it would taste as great
as the scraps from your dinner
you set out for me.
You gave me some of that, too.

The little house you made for me 
with the heating pad
kept me warm and safe.
Playing with the feather you dangled
from a wand for me—

I loved it all.

But I loved you more 

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Jennifer Gawinski Cuming is a poet and writer based in Wisconsin. Her work explores memory, intimacy, and the quiet moments that shape our lives. She has been published in several Local Gems Poetry Press anthologies, and has received an honorable mention in Four Tulips’ Cozy anthology. You can find more of her work at her Jenny Jean’s Vineyard of Memories Facebook page.