Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen, a welcome contrast to the crisp autumn air. I was kneading the dough, the rhythmic motion a source of comfort, when the sound of excited barking drifted through the open window. It was Barkley, the terrier mix next door, happily romping through the fallen leaves in my yard.

Without breaking stride, I turned off the mixer and walked toward the back door, pausing. I reached out and opened it, calling out in a gentle, even voice. "Barkley, come here, sweetie." He bounded over, his tail a blur. I clipped his leash on and took him back to the gate to his own yard. I released him, smiled, and then resumed the kneading, the warm dough soft under my hands.