Me: I can’t believe Jonathan is seven today. Where did the time go?
Nell: I’ve written him a poem. Would you like to hear it?
Me: Very much.
Nell: Then I will begin.
‘Good morning, dear friend,
Have you something to say?’
‘Yes. Jonathan Sky is seven today.’
‘Seven today? How can that be?
The last time I saw him
I’m sure he was three.’
‘Don’t be so silly.
Fayely is four.
So Jonathan has to be
Very much more.’
‘Oh yes, you’re right.
So what’s to be done?
We must have some cake.
And a party and fun.’
‘The party’s arranged
And it’s all about trains
Because Ticket to Ride
Is Johnny’s favourite game.’
‘Did you just say Johnny?’
‘Yes, that’s what he’s called
By Fayely, and Mummy and Papa
And all.’
‘Do Granny and Grandpa say Johnny too?
And Harriet and Dave and Poppy
And you?’
‘I say what I like
As you well know
But in this case
I shall go with the flow.’
‘We need to wear orange.
Where is your hat?’
‘I’m not sure I have one.’
‘Go and ask The Cat.
It always has hats
In its dressing up box
And sequins and glitter
And colourful socks.’
‘I don’t think it matters
What we actually wear
It’s all about love
And showing we care.’
‘Well, my present to Johnny
On the day he turns seven
Is the love we are sending
From his family in Devon.’
‘It’s not just in Devon.
Johnny’s loved far and wide.
He couldn’t be loved more.
Believe me, we’ve tried.
So Happy Birthday to you
Our magical boy.
Have a wonderful day
Full of happiness and joy.’
Me: That’s perfect, Nell. He’s going to love it.
Nell: Almost as much as we love him?
Me: No. That’s impossible. Sorry.
