Nell: What is David doing in your bedroom? It’s far too early. David doesn’t come upstairs until later.
Me: He was feeling a little cold and wanted to be close to Harriet.
Nell: David always sleeps downstairs in the living room with me.
Me: I know but you’re not very cuddly.
Nell: If you mean I object to a giant Labrador using me as a pillow then that’s correct.
Me: Harriet doesn’t mind.
Nell: And why has Poppy barricaded herself into her Palace?
Me: Dave was trying to help sort out her bed and then it got stuck in the doorway. I think she quite likes it.
Nell: She doesn’t look like she likes it.
Me: She’s just tired after seeing the vet yesterday.
Nell: What did the vet say?
Me: She thinks Poppy must have hurt herself falling off the bed a few weeks ago and has bruised her back. We all thought it was the Cushing’s but it’s actually coincidental.
Nell: What is the plan?
Me: She’s staying on her painkillers for a week and then we’re gradually reintroducing the Cushing’s medication.
Nell: She’s certainly much more herself.
Me: Yes. It’s a relief.
Nell: And what about you?
Me: What about me?
Nell: Why are you up and writing this early? Do you have an appointment I don’t know about?
Me: No. I can’t sleep. I’m too excited. Alice and the grandchildren arrive tomorrow.
Nell: That is exciting.
Me: Yes. They don’t land until 10.30pm so we’re staying the night at a hotel near the airport.
Nell: A sensible decision.
Me: I’m going to drive over there in the afternoon as I don’t like driving in the dark.
Nell: So, only one more sleep to go?
Me: Yes.
Nell: The emphasis being on sleep.
Me: You’re right. Sorry.
