Sandpaper Kisses Poem by Paul Holmes

Sandpaper kisses
Rasp on cheeks and chins,
This good morning wash
Is how it all begins!
If I’m not too careful
This Tortoiseshell Cat
Will lick me all day
Til my face has gone flat!
Her purrs compensate
For the embarrassment,
As an awkward grimace
Greets her good intent.
If it were possible
I’m sure she would smile,
Reflecting her joy
At seeing my profile.
Ah! What simple pleasures
I give to this furry friend,
Yet, to wake up this way
I do NOT recommend!