Nell: Is Kev awake now?
Me: Yes.
Nell: Good. Poppy will make him his favourite breakfast of poached eggs on toast. Harriet will bring it to him in bed with his cards and presents. She picked some flowers for his room.
Me: Will there be cake?
Nell: Of course. Poppy has made a chocolate and raspberry cake for later when the guests arrive.
Me: What about Dave?
Nell: David has prepared a birthday dance. It’s Puerto Rican, but not menacing.
Me: That’s a relief.
Nell: The Cat has made a ridiculous sequinned tie. It’s the thought that counts I suppose.
Me: Mutley is performing later isn’t he?
Nell: Yes, just some gentle jazz the way Kev likes it.
Me: And you?
Nell: I have written a poem for him.
Me: Could I hear it?
Nell: Of course.
“Walking together through fields by the sea,
Talking of life and what is to be.
Safe in the knowledge that we are a team,
Making our plans and sharing our dream.
When you see us together it’s easy to tell,
That he is my Kev and I am his Nell.”
Me: He is going to love that.
Nell: Yes. Did David just carry Rita and Gladys upstairs in my handbag?
Me: I think he did.
Nell: He told me he was performing alone. If I find those dancing chihuahuas upstairs too there will be trouble. Hurry up and stop him.
Me: Yes, sorry.
I love, love, love your wonderful poem. You are the most eloquent dog I know, dear Nell. Happy Birthday to Kev, I’m sure he’ll love the cake! 😊
Thank you so much. Hopefully there will be a book out next year. X