Me: I love the photos of Shannon and Marvin. What is he wearing in the second one?
Nell: It’s very cold in Toronto you know.
Me: Yes, of course.
Nell: And a pup needs to keep his ears warm.
Me: He looks like a little old lady.
Nell: Don’t be silly.
Me: Was it Marvin you were talking to?
Nell: Yes. We were FaceTiming on our iBones. Marvin is still getting used to WoofsApp.
Me: What were you chatting about?
Nell: Shannon’s birthday. It’s today and Marvin asked me to help surprise her with a poem.
Me: Can I hear it?
Nell: Yes.
‘This poem is for Shannon on her birthday
From rescue pup Marvin who wants me to say
He was frightened, in danger, and oh so alone
Until Shannon and Chris came and gave him a home.
He loves you so much, more than biscuits and steak
More than walks in the park
More than fun by the lake
More than anything ever and ever at all
Because pups give big love, even though they are small.
So Happy Birthday dear Shannon we hope you enjoy
This poem of love from Young Marvin, your boy.’
Me: I’m sure she is going to love it, Nell.
Nell: He means every word. Chris and Shannon saved his life.
Me: Yes. I know they did.
Nell: Rescue dogs need a little longer to realise they are safe and are not going to lose their owners.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Mutley struggled for years.
Me: He had five owners before Kev. Do you ever worry, Nell?
Nell: Excuse me? You without me? Unthinkable. You would never survive.
Me: I know.
Nell: It’s never going to happen, by the way, so stop right there. You and me always. Wherever we are.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
