Please, No Santa Hat for Me

The silver bells are sparkling on evergreen branches, 
tempting the curious cat.
The smell from the kitchen reaches his nose, 
and saves the silver bells from further exploration.
He jumps and turns as his attention shifts to the clatter 
of bowls hitting the kitchen floor.
Luck is on his side as his nose finds turkey giblets
scattered on the tiles. His speed outwits the cook
as he makes off with the giblets in his mouth.

He finds a hiding place in the children's playroom
and finishes his snack and licks his paws.
His luck runs out as Clara spots him behind her toy box. 
She has a small Santa hat in her hands.
She heads his way, calling out his name sweetly with her little voice.
He is not charmed for they have played this game before.
He is determined that little red hat will not go on his head.
He decides he had better run when he sees her big brother join the game 
with a camera in his hands.

He does make it out the little flap door in the laundry room.
He sees the dog house which can some days be a friendly place.
Today he spots a guest dog with a grumpy disposition.
The garage side door is not completely closed, 
and he squeezes through the opening.
He finds a soft spot with the clean car wash rags.
The richness of the giblets makes his head feel heavy, 
and he is ready for a nap.
He awakes with the clicking noise of the door
and he feels brother's hands lifting him off his pile.
Before he can stop it that fuzzy red hat is on his head.
He shakes his head but it has been tied under his chin.
He hears Clara giggling in the background 
and camera lights are flashing in his eyes.

He finally gets away as the garage door opens.
Grandpa sees his misery and takes pity.
He removes the fuzzy Santa hat, and lets him go.

Hopefully he can find a mouse to put under their Christmas tree.
He will delight with Clara's scream!