Me: The sea looks lovely but ever so cold I don’t know how you all can go swimming.
Nell: David and I paddle. Harriet swims.
Me: And Poppy?
Nell: Poppy swims if necessary but definitely not otherwise.
Me: I don’t blame her at this time of year.
Nell: Talking of this time of year, why aren’t you wearing green?
Me: I didn’t know I had to.
Nell: It’s St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone wears green.
Me: To be sure they do.
Nell: What’s the matter with you?
Me: I’m grand. Don’t you worry about me.
Nell: Are you trying to sound Irish?
Me: I was, actually.
Nell: Well, stop, please. You are embarrassing yourself.
Me: Did you know I’m actually 14% Irish?
Nell: I did not.
Me: My grandmother’s family were from Dublin.
Nell: I thought you were Welsh?
Me: My father was from Wales.
Nell: You’re quite a mixture, aren’t you?
Me: I am and I love it.
Nell: I am a pure breed pedigree Oxfordshire Labrador.
Me: Yes, I know you are. I’ve seen your Kennel Club certificate. Your real name is Shadow Tonight.
Nell: It is.
Me: I don’t think I would like to call you Shadow.
Nell: Good.
Me: Or even Shady for short.
Nell: I am not shady.
Me: Poppy’s past is a little shady.
Nell: We don’t discuss Poppy’s past.
Me: I know.
Nell: She is a Martin now and that is all that matters.
Me: I agree. So where’s the craic then?
Nell: If you’re referring to our St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, then they will begin at lunchtime with an impromptu performance by the Welsh corgi choir.
Me: But they’re Welsh.
Nell: They are Irish for today.
Me: Really?
Nell: Wait until you see their Riverdance. It’s truly unforgettable.
Me: I can imagine. Sorry.
