Kittyburg

  A fluttering knight in bright green armor, With a beak like a sword in a mighty hand. You put together the North and South, Embroider the air with emerald thread.

  A maple in my backyard Became a lemon tree. Look at the sunny goldfinch, Sip dandelion wine.

  You may entitle them northern kings, Crowned with shiny crests. Yet both chilly North and luscious South  Harbor cardinals’ nests.

A Northern princess becomes a bride Of a mighty Southern king. Her gown must honor her kingdom’s pride  — The wedding takes place in the spring.

It struck me not long ago that kittens and young cats might someday read my diaries. “Wouldn’t it be charitable,” I thought, “to pass on some wise advice about becoming a truly accomplished feline?”

Today began with a scandal. Last night, I made my royal visit to the snack bar only to discover the unthinkable — it was empty. Empty! My so-called caregiver had forgotten to refill it. An outrage of historic proportions! Naturally, I left a fragrant decree on the floor — punishment must be swift.