Me: Look at the photos Chris sent me.
Nell: It’s our dear Marvin in Toronto.
Me: Yes. Isn’t he looking handsome?
Nell: He is, indeed.
Me: And proud and happy.
Nell: Marvin landed on his paws when Chris and Shannon rescued him.
Me: He did, darling boy.
Nell: He has known nothing but love ever since.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Which is just as it should be.
Me: And he’s given them nothing but love in return.
Nell: Of course. It’s what we dogs do.
Me: I love the way one of his ears goes up. Sweet boy.
Nell: Marvin has his own style.
Me: And look at the gorgeous colour of the leaves.
Nell: Yes.
Me: They’re like a vast golden carpet.
Nell: They’re nothing like a carpet. I don’t mind when they’re crunchy under paw but I don’t like it when they get soggy.
Me: No, I’m afraid the soggy time isn’t far away.
Nell: I agree.
Me: It will probably start snowing in Canada soon.
Nell: You went there at the right time of year.
Me: I did. All that snow might be a bit much for me, although I was used to it when I lived in Berlin.
Nell: Times change. I find I’m more sensitive to the cold nowadays.
Me: Do you think we’re going to have any snow this Christmas?
Nell: I doubt it. Devon is too warm.
Me: I’m trying very hard not to get too excited about the family coming here for Christmas.
Nell: Why? Be as excited as you like.
Me: What if I get over-excited? It will all end in tears.
Nell: It will all end in tears anyway. Happy ones. Part of the joy is the expectation. The knowing that you will all be together again.
Me: You’re right. Sorry.
