Me: Nigel’s a handsome hound isn’t he?
Nell: Is that David’s paw?
Me: Yes, Dave and I were sitting in my chair and he didn’t want Nigel to come too close.
Nell: I sympathise. Nigel is not very good at respecting one’s private space.
Me: He likes to give Dave a big kiss now and again but Dave doesn’t like it.
Nell: I don’t blame him.
Me: Didn’t Nigel try and kiss you one time?
Nell: Yes. It never happened again.
Me: Probably because you growled or barked if he came anywhere near you.
Nell: Can you blame me?
Me: He was being friendly, Nell.
Nell: You can’t just kiss another animal.
Me: No. You’re right.
Nell: So, what are your plans today?
Me: Sunday Songs and a roast as usual. What about you?
Nell: Poppy’s roasting a chicken with all the trimmings for lunch and then Charlie and I are going to take a quiet stroll in the park.
Me: You have parks?
Nell: Mutley and Poppy are going skateboarding later.
Me: Really?
Nell: Mutley loves it.
Me: Whatever next?
Nell: We went to the cinema yesterday.
Me: I love to hear about all the things you Guardians get up to, Nell. I find it really comforting.
Nell: I know.
Me: Henry and Horst say the Beefies have put the Grockles attacks on hold.
Nell: Why?
Me: Heat exhaustion.
Nell: Really?
Me: Several Beefies collapsed and couldn’t fly home. I feel quite sorry for them.
Nell: It’s a trick.
Me: I even suggested to Rupert that he could bring them some ice lollies on his rounds.
Nell: Canadians call them popsicles. Did he agree?
Me: He said if he saw a dehydrated seagull he would offer them one.
Nell: If they attack Rupert it’ll be your fault.
Me: Sorry.
