Nell: Those are lovely photos of Alice. So many happy memories.
Me: Yes, the last time we saw her darling Mutley was still with us.
Nell: He was. Now, I know today is going to be a difficult sort of day for lots of reasons.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Chris flies back to Toronto tomorrow but you will be seeing him again in January if not at Christmas.
Me: Yes.
Nell: So, there is no reason at all to be sad.
Me: Well, maybe a little.
Nell: And it’s Alice’s birthday today.
Me: It is.
Nell: And although you can’t be with her we will be FaceTiming later.
Me: We will.
Nell: So, I’ve written a poem. Would you like to hear it?
Me: Yes, please.
Nell: ‘37 years ago on this very day
A baby was born
In a land far away.’
Me: It was in Germany, so not that far away.
Nell: May I continue?
Me: Of course.
Nell: ‘That baby was Alice
Which I know to be true
Because I asked her mother
Who is Sara.
Yes, you.
Now we haven’t seen Alice
For ages and ages.
And I could write about this sadness
For pages and pages.
But I won’t do that you will be glad to hear
Because this is a day for happiness and cheer.
This is a day when we shout to the world
Happy Birthday Alice
You wonderful girl.
You are loved so much
By all who know you.
Most especially by Sara
Your mother.
Yes, you.
Virtual hugs are coming your way
From us all on this your special day.
And though you are both still far apart
Sara carries you always safe in her heart.’
Me: I do.
Nell: No more tears. You will see her again soon.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
