Me: You look happy. Have you had two breakfasts again?
Nell: Very droll. A dippy egg with soldiers and a nice cup of Earl Grey was quite sufficient thank you.
Me: So what’s made you smile?
Nell: I’ve just heard from young Marvin in Canada.
Me: I thought he was on holiday at the lake with Chris and Shannon.
Nell: He is. He sent us some photos on WoofsApp.
Me: Oh look. It’s Rhubarb the beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog.
Nell: Yes. David was especially delighted to see her.
Me: Was he now?
Nell: Stop that. David and Rhu are just friends. He has something of the mountain dog about him, doesn’t he?
Me: Yes. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: Marvin says he is learning to swim.
Me: Dear pup. Look at his little face staring out of the window.
Nell: Yes. It is certainly a very beautiful place.
Me: I would be staring out of the window all the time if I was there.
Nell: I know you would.
Me: One of the best swims I ever had was in a Canadian lake. The water was like velvet.
Nell: Talking of velvet. Have you seen Gladys this morning?
Me: I saw her at her Glide with Gladys class earlier.
Nell: What was she wearing?
Me: Lycra.
Nell: Well, she’s dressed nose to paw in velvet now.
Me: Why?
Nell: That’s exactly what I said. Velvet is most unsuitable for summer. The Cat is behind this. Mark my paws.
Me: What did she say?
Nell: ‘One must Dress to Impress, Nell.’
Me: Impress who?
Nell: That’s exactly what I said. She just tapped her nose with her satin glove.
Me: Satin glove? Crikey.
Nell: Crikey? You do know this is 2020 and you’re not Australian, don’t you?
Me: Yes. Sorry.