Nell: Jonathan loves reading, doesn’t he?
Me: Yes, and making up stories in his head.
Nell: Just like his Granny.
Me: Yes. I can’t believe he’s nine today,
Nell: You always say that when someone has a birthday.
Me: It was only yesterday he was a baby.
Nell: It really wasn’t. I like the photos.
Me: They were taken on our holiday to Canada. He absolutely loved the aquarium.
Nell: Who is that dog?
Me: I told you about her. Her name is Peggy and she lives in Toronto. She made friends with us at the station when we were travelling to Niagara Falls.
Nell: Oh yes. I’ve written a poem.
Me: How lovely.
Nell: Would you like me to read it?
Me: Very much.
Nell: Here it is:
‘Bring out the dinosaurs!
Bring out the sharks!
Let there be Lego!
And let there be barks!
Today is a day
To have a good time.
Because today is the day
Jonathan turns nine.’
‘Did you say nine?’
‘I did, my friend.’
‘But nine is old.
It’s almost ten.
Nearly double figures.’
‘Yes, it’s true.
Pass me some paper
And a bottle of glue.’
‘Why glue?’
I’m making a birthday hat.’
‘For Jonathan?’
‘Yes, it’s not for The Cat.
Harriet has one
And so does Nell.
And Nigel and Dave
Have one as well.’
‘Will there be eggs
Cos he loves them the most?’
‘Yes. Boiled and fried
And scrambled
On toast.’
‘Look Granny is waving
And Grandpa is, too.
They are all saying
Happy Birthday to you!’
Me: He’s going to love it.
Nell: Good. I’m glad.
Me: I wish I was there with him.
Nell: You are in spirit.
Me: I hope he knows how much he’s loved.
Nell: He knows. Trust me.
Me: Of course he does. Sorry.
