I've Been a Good Dog

I can’t write a letter
with these clumsy paws,
but Santa, I promise
I’ve been a good dog.

I know that you’re coming,
Dad brought in a tree.
It's covered with balls and
toys that aren’t for me.

The lights are so twinkly.
The air smells so sweet.
I know mom’s been baking,
but she won’t share her treats.

So please Santa, come
to this sad puppy’s home.
Bring me some toys.
Bring me some bones.

Oh, please don’t forget me
because I sat on mom’s mum,
barked at the mailman,
and chewed up dad’s gloves.

I know that I shouldn’t
have frightened that skunk,
peed in the bathtub,
or eaten dad’s lunch.

But I am so repentant.
Can’t you see in my eyes?
I even said sorry
to the squirrels, crows and flies.

I haven’t sipped from the toilet
in at least a whole week.
I stayed off the sofa,
I didn’t pull on my leash.

So, Santa, I’ll wait for you
here by the tree.
I’ve been such a good girl.
Don’t forget about me.

Photograph by Nicole Pacetti-Simpson