Me: Happy Birthday darling Nell. Look, the sun is shining today just for you.
Nell: Thank you.
Me: I’ve written you a poem. Would you like to hear it?
Nell: I would indeed. Please begin.
Me: ‘My darling Nell is 11 today.
I love her more than words can say.
She’s awfully grumpy and rather gruff
But her words are wise
And her love is tough.’
Nell: What on earth does that mean?
Me: Tough love. It’s your thing.
Nell: Good grief.
Me: ‘She’s the centre of our world.
Our safest place.
Our special girl.
You and Me. Always.
Is there in my mind
So if I am worried
Or needing to find
Some words of comfort
When I’m not feeling well
I just go to my soulmate
I go to my Nell.
I know she’ll be with me
Wherever that might be
Because where there’s Sara, there’s Nell
And where there’s Nell, there’s me.’
Nell: I liked that.
Me: I thought you might.
Nell: I’ll always be there.
Me: Yes. I know.
Nell: Good.
Me: So, what are your plans today? Sailing around the island with Lionel, or Dartmoor with Rupert and Tracey?
Nell: I’ve decided here with you and the family is the best place for me to celebrate.
Me: That’s a relief.
Nell: A stroll on the beach would be most appreciated, however, before returning home for my surprise afternoon tea.
Me: How do you know you’re having a surprise afternoon tea?
Nell: Poppy and her team have been busy in the kitchen all morning.
Me: Poppy’s always busy.
Nell: David has icing on his nose.
Me: You think there’ll be a birthday cake, do you?
Nell: There’s always birthday cake.
Me: Thank you for being you, Nell.
Nell: Who else would I be?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
