by Joanne Hattaway-auer
Nova’s Kingdom
Queen of the porch, alert and brave,No baby lizard safe from her chase.A fierce protector, loyal and true,The bravest spirit the backyard knew.At two in the morning, she’d clock for her shift,To bark at the shadows, a protective gift.The neighbors just smiled, understanding the sound,For a chorus of dogs blessed the neighborhood ground.Then the jingling keys would bring a shift,The daily ride, her favorite gift.Ears in the wind, a joyful stride,Contented bliss right by your side.The road ahead is quiet now,The yard at peace beneath the bough.But in the breeze, she takes her flight—Forever wild, forever bright.