Nell: So David and Harriet are nine today.
Me: It seems only yesterday that we brought them home.
Nell: Yes, from my first home with my sister Maisie.
Me: Is Maisie up there with you?
Nell: Of course.
Me: I’m glad.
Nell: Those are beautiful photos. I especially like the ones of me.
Me: Telling them off, ignoring them and sharing a chair with baby Harriet?
Nell: Chris is sharing a sofa with baby David.
Me: True.
Nell: I’ve written them a poem. Would you like to hear it?
Me: Yes. Very much.
Nell: ‘Now David, now Harriet, listen to me
This is your beloved Aunt Nell.
I’m somewhere you are not able to see
But I’m cared for and happy and well.
Today is your birthday and you are nine
Which means you are fully mature.
Harriet’s been wise for quite a long time
But David, well I’m not very sure.
In true Martin tradition on a loved one’s birthday
Hats are worn and there’s also a song.
And as you have heard Kev quite often say
All day you can do no wrong.
Eating by mistake is therefore allowed
And overindulging on cake.
And dancing around and being loud
And having your own sirloin steak.
So dear Puppies, please know you are loved
Across land and sky and sea
By Sara and Kev and family and friends
But most of all, and for ever, by me.’
Me: I’m in tears now.
Nell: That wasn’t the idea.
Me: It makes me so sad that you can’t celebrate with us.
Nell: I’m celebrating, don’t you worry about that. Poppy has organised a party and there will be cake.
Me: Wonderful.
Nell: Now, dry your eyes and go and read them my poem before the celebrations begin.
Me: I will. Sorry.
