Princess Pumpernickel's Royal Ball

By C. B. Brantley, and Elizabeth Berndt. 

Princess Pumpernickel, dressed in lavender from head to toe, 

Wore a velvet ribbon sash and a big satin bow.

All the little mice made themselves ready for the royal ball. 

They ogled the hors d’oeuvres menu given from within the banquet hall. 

A bougie kitty who was dolled up pretty, fancied herself fit to feast. 

There was such a riot over that cat’s diet, ‘twas the crème de la crème at the least. 

For music, they hired a jazzy showcase, with a big bass. 

An owl played the cello sweetly; a badger's trombone added brass so neatly.

Yet, the dancers, all being classically trained, were not so easily entertained. 

Some of the younger guests all felt this party was upsettingly lame. 

The princess made her debutante premier as a royal heiress to the throne. 

Every “would-be suitor” mouse did seek to make his affections fondly known. 

The king and queen were aggrandized by opulent displays of wealth. 

With all the hoopla over ceremonies, they almost forgot to toast to good health! 

Without missing one beat, they held high flutes of champagne, 

and toasted Lass Pumpernickel, who, one fine day would reign. 

The mood soared into the ether until the twilight fell, 

and the Princess picked her suitor, Sir Rye Little at the midnight knell. 

Sir Little and Lass Pumpernickel had an extravagant wedding 

But Rye was so nervous, he could barely stop shedding! 

But one little touch of his Lady Fair’s palm 

was all that Rye needed to feel grounded and calm. 

It was a new chapter the newlyweds had begun with so many responsibilities and chores left undone. 

Yet, together, they put their axes to the grind, 

and whatever they created glimmered with a shine. 

Prince and Princess, may you both live long Rule firmly and kindly, 

may your love remain strong. 

Thus, Pumpernickel and Rye reign to this very day 

A reminder that dreams come true, and love lights their way.