Me: Dave looks worried. Do you know why?
Nell: Kev said Julian was too big for the room.
Me: But Julian is the perfect shape for a Christmas tree.
Nell: And now David is afraid Julian is going to be trimmed.
Me: Nobody is going to touch Julian. You can tell Dave there is no need to worry.
Nell: He really cares about Julian.
Me: I hope he doesn’t care too much because Julian is only with us for Christmas.
Nell: I’m not telling David that.
Me: No. You’re probably right.
Nell: Some people think dogs are just for Christmas.
Me: I know they do. I can’t really bear to think about that, if I’m honest.
Nell: Neither can I. A dog is for life.
Me: Yes.
Nell: And beyond.
Me: I’d like to think so.
Nell: I know so. You and me. Always.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Now, what’s your opinion on Yorkshire Puddings with turkey?
Me: Personally, I don’t feel Yorkshires are needed at Christmas because there are so many other dishes.
Nell: I see. Well, you can place your vote but I think you’re going to lose.
Me: I didn’t know there was a vote.
Nell: Of course there’s a vote. Didn’t you get your voting sheet?
Me: No.
Nell: I’m sure you were handed one.
Me: Do you mean the Christmas menu?
Nell: Yes, but with boxes next to it.
Me: So I put a cross in the boxes next to my favourites?
Nell: Yes.
Me: I’m sure mine was just a list. I didn’t see any boxes.
Nell: Didn’t you?
Me: It is almost as if I don’t get a vote at all.
Nell: Surely not.
Me: I remember bacon being on there several times.
Nell: You can never have enough bacon.
Me: Of course. Sorry.
