popcorn and netflix

I make a batch of popcorn
getting ready for a night of binging
on Netflix.

I pour in a little oil,
then the hard tiny kernels
of corn.

I turn the heat up, but then
the phone rings

and I walk around talking as
i'm prone to do.

upstairs, downstairs, talking
with my hands. engaged
in the conversation.

catching
up with an old friend.

when I come back into the kitchen
the popcorn is everywhere.
on the floor,

the counter,
on the fan, the pictures.
on the window sill.

I forgot to put the lid on.
this is when I miss my dog,

the canine vacuum cleaner
that he was.