Me: It’s Shannon’s birthday today. Look how cold and snowy it is in Toronto.
Nell: They are lovely photos.
Me: Happy Birthday Shannon. Let’s hope we finally get to see each other again soon. It’s been far too long.
Nell: Young Marvin certainly seems to be wrapped up warmly.
Me: Yes, it is wonderful to see him now when you think of what a difficult start in life he had.
Nell: Chris and Shannon changed his world when they rescued him.
Me: Darling Marv.
Nell: Now, Marvin and I have been working hard on a little poem for Shannon.
Me: How lovely.
Nell: Would you like to hear it?
Me: Very much.
Nell: ‘Hi, this is Marvin calling from Toronto
And a life full of cuddles and love and snow.’
Me: There’s plenty of all of those.
Nell: May I continue?
Me: Of course.
Nell: ‘The reason for my happiness is quite clear to me,
It’s down to Dad Chris and Shannon my mommy.’
Me: Isn’t it mummy?
Nell: Marvin is from North America. It is mom not mum there.
Me: Oh yes.
Nell: ‘What I want to say now,
Is both heartfelt and true,
Happy Birthday Mommy Shannon
I truly love you.
You’re the sweetest of moms there ever could be.
You’re my safe place to go.
You mean everything to me.
So have a wonderful birthday
Full of laughter and joy
And cuddles from Chris
And Marvin, your boy.’
Me: What a sweet poem. I’m sure Shannon will love it.
Nell: Yes, Marvin worked very hard on getting it just right for her.
Me: It’s all about love and family, isn’t it?
Nell: Yes, it is. And even if they are far away we always carry them with us in our hearts. So, no tears.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
