Stepping Up

I wanted to reach the top of the low footstool. Two thick art magazines lay staggered on the rug below it, forming a pair of wide, shallow steps. I paused... tilting my head to measure the climb. Inching forward, I planted my front paws firmly onto the first glossy cover. The paper held steady. With a determined shuffle, I scrambled all four feet up onto the second magazine, pausing just long enough to balance my round body. Stretching upward, I pressed my snout against the footstool's woven edge, gave a firm push with my back paws, and hoisted myself onto the plush cushion. I sat tall, looking out over the whole room.