I have been chided simultaneously both for being overly strict to form and too free and easy. This means I’ve got it about right. Even so, squeezing “Eleventh day of Christmas into a 5 syllable haiku opening has me bracing myself! I am told the pipers piping are the eleven faithful apostles (after Judas has excused himself)
‘leventh of Christmas
Do ye ken the piper’s cry?
Turn ’round with new heart!
Bagpipes skirling, kilts a-whirling, over the hill they come – let’s follow!
Wondering Pilgrim 