An Ode To Milo

Curled tiger, head to tail

Purring softly in your slumber

Eyes closed in dreaming wonder

Taking on each gust and gale

Stretch, extend your claws

Heaving once and curling once more

Never uttering a single snore

Yet sure in each strength and all your flaws

Beautiful, graceful creature; friend

Eyes open briefly, as though checking

Upon the world that is wrecking

A peaceful slumber that must soon end

Freckles dot eyes and lips, nose and chin

Fluffy fur invites petting and pause

Even past the threat of claws

A promise of happiness lies within

Milo Defilo Vindictus Mick the Monkey Wrench

A name long and silly for even such a cat

Even though he is such as that

He’s a properly aloof mensch

Butting your head against my arm

Attention demanded, not asked or begged

I know you, I have you pegged

Though I cannot resist your child-like charm

Sleep, baby boy; sleep in peace and quiet

Dream of mice and birdies to hunt

Fat and frisky, or small little runt

Sleep, then wake in a riot

Chase Mia Mia Sopapilla Little Missy Squishy Face

Tackle, bat, run and hide

But not too rough or I shall chide

And make you give poor Mia some recovery space

Ornery cuss that you are

I know the cycle will circuit

You will never quit

And we’ll have to clear you from the bar

But we love him just the same

Playful, loving, chummy cat

Long and lanky, never fat

And we’d rather he not be entirely tame