NAUGHTY, NAUGHTY DOG

“Tabasco. What did you do?’
“You naughty little girl.”

I heard the words, but
Couldn’t believe it.
I was caught.

As I turned to face my Mom,
I tried to block the wrapping paper strewn under the tree.
The evidence.

“That was Mommy’s gift,Tabasco.”
Before I could answer,
I burped up a wet red ribbon.
Oops.

Tonight is Christmas Eve.
The night Santa fills stockings with lots of treats.
But you have to be on the nice list.

In all fairness,
I did not harm the necklace.
Please Mom,
Remember what a nice big sister I’ve been,
To new little brother Starbuck.

Time will tell.
Treats to eat or a lump of coal.
Why did that paper have to be so tasty?