When I open my eyes in the morning, this is the first thing I see. Zinnia sleeps in bed, down at the foot, and never disturbs us or moves until we stir or the sun breaks through the window or I look at her.

Then she very gently creeps up the bed and puts her head on my shoulder or Maria’s, if she is closer.

She doesn’t move a muscle, but her tail starts to wag and she crawls up slowly and licks my face. If I say “get back” she quickly retreats to the bottom of the bed.

It’s actually a lovely way to wake up in the morning.

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Tomorrow morning, I’m planning a smoothie breakfast, oat milk, plain yogurt, an apple, a banana, some berries, some rolled oats,  all in the blender with half a cup of protein powder, some kale shreds (my addition.)

I’m looking forward to it.