In the MRD era, she broke free of verbal constraints and spoke about her kingdom of dreams,
She even cited Eliot to explain the protagonists' double standards in a tale set in colonial regimes.
To each of her several crushes, she probably said, "Until you," with a look that's bashful.
Of each book or movie she loves, she probably said, "Oh, that's something wonderful."
A perfect hostess, she heartily welcomes all newcomers to the Den's crazy paradise,
She'll watch every breath you take; dare to flout a rule, and she'll politely cut you down to size.
She shares a passion with someone that has them, in unison say, "'Tis almost heaven"
'Tis a passion for food that claims its tender triumph over bread, be it with or without leaven.
To the world, it appears that she has found her Clayton, who has proclaimed, "Whitney, my love,"
But this feisty Whitney delivers a standard response -- once and always -- a playful virtual shove.
Yet, she looked on in tender triumph as someone ambled over and sat on the veteran's Rocker,
Nay, nothing not even double exposure kept her away that day from rolling over with laughter.
As night whispers sweet nothings to the moon and a little bird snuggles to sleep in its tree,
She probably now says, "Across the continents and seas, there's someone to watch over me."
May your life be filled with nuggets of memories that you will fondly recall and say, "Remember when ..."
That's my birthday wish for you this year, just as your special day fades away to tomorrow, dear Arwen.
PS: Hey Arwen, apologies for the slightly delayed wishes. Hope you had a wonderful time today.