Me: There was an awful lot of barking this morning. Has someone done something to annoy Poppy?
Nell: Why?
Me: She looks exceptionally fierce for a Friday morning.
Nell: She’s just getting into character I expect.
Me: Of a fierce animal?
Nell: Yes. The Evil Mrs Snow. Do keep up.
Me: It’s only that when I looked out of the window this morning I thought I saw Naughty Nigel.
Nell: What were you doing out of bed?
Me: It was all the barking, Nell. Was it Naughty Nigel?
Nell: Yes, of course it was. And Seamus and Boo. You know the three boys always visit us together.
Me: What a lovely surprise. I haven’t seen them for ages.
Nell: Yes, although Poppy could have been a little more welcoming.
Me: I knew something had annoyed her.
Nell: She says she hasn’t got enough meatballs for everyone now.
Me: You’ll just have to have two each instead of three.
Nell: Don’t be silly.
Me: It’s all about compromise, Nell.
Nell: Not when it comes to meatballs. Nobody can expect an animal to give up a meatball.
Me: I suppose not.
Nell: Anyway, Poppy is making some more. So, it’s all fine.
Me: It’s nearly Sunday, Nell. Only two more sleeps.
Nell: Yes, I am aware.
Me: It’s nearly time for the Conversations with Nell Christmas Special 2020.
Nell: I know it is.
Me: Everyone is going to finally hear you speak.
Nell: Yes, they are.
Me: I can’t wait. I’m so excited. I do hope they like it.
Nell: They will. Just calm down.
Me: I could hardly sleep last night. Kev and I listened to it and it sounded really good.
Nell: Of course, it did. It’s you and me and Christmas. What’s not good about that?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
