Once upon a time, in a house full of boys,

Each baby arrived bringing blue bootie joys.

Each birth was a blessing, a reason to cheer,

Till one day they whispered: “A girl would be dear.”

They wished with such strength, their hearts full of light,

That the Three Wise Kings heard them that night.

And soon they were gifted, to their great delight,

A tiny sweet girl - their star shining bright.

She laughed all the time, she sparkled and played,

With a smile both clever and sweetly displayed.

It opened up doors, turned frowns into glee,

She brought joy to all, as bright as could be.

She grew up quite fast and learned how to shout,

Like an opera diva just letting it out.

When she shrieked, the windows would quiver with fear,

And everyone nearby would cover their ear.

That only amused her - she’d shout once again,

And giggle in triumph like it was a game.

Even her animal friends would retreat,

In terror they’d scatter from that tiny feat.

So off she would go, her animal search begun:

The cat and her kittens, the dog on the run,

The parrots she’d soothe, the turtle she’d find,

The chicks she would gather, one step at a time.

She lived with a zoo - lucky, indeed!

With creatures galore to chase and to feed.

And cousins of every size, color, and shape,

To laugh with, to squabble with, and to escape.

She was skinny as spaghetti but ate like a queen,

Two steaks for dinner - a sight to be seen!

She spoke early on and had lots to say,

She chatted with people all night and all day.

And when no one was there? She still wouldn’t stop -

She’d talk to her dolls or the pets in the shop.

Then one day she crafted some friends of pure air -

Imaginary buddies were suddenly there!

She scolded them daily, and gave them a name,

(Though they disappeared when adults came).

She learned how to sing - a jukebox in bloom!

Some songs from the radio, some made in her room.

So off to school her mother did send her,

To learn the songs trending with rhythm and splendor.

Each day she would grow, her curiosity wide,

Until one day she said, bright-eyed:

“I want to learn languages - travel the earth!

Find forests with colors and rivers of mirth.

I want to feel snow, to know what is cold,

To wear scarves and boots, to be brave and bold!”

So one day she left, off to explore,

Seeking adventure, new sights, and much more.

And back in her home, the windows stood still -

No more trembles, no laughter or thrill.

The animals packed up their bags one by one,

And rushed off to find where the girl had gone.

Her mischievous smile had vanished from sight,

So they followed her trail into the night.

At home they felt empty, a little bit blue,

Until letters and photos came shining through.

And since that day, with love and with cheer,

They all await news from their girl so dear.

And just like all stories that must meet their end,

This tale now closes, dear family and friends.

The End

January, 1992

A&S

Aperitivo & Sunset

The Wedding