Me: The children don’t want to leave you dogs tomorrow. If they could they would take you all back to Germany with them.
Nell: I know.
Me: Faye has even started lying on top of Dave to keep him close.
Nell: Yes. David doesn’t mind at all.
Me: Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: I’m afraid Harriet is particularly down about their departure.
Me: Alice tried to comfort her.
Nell: She will be fine. We all will. The day before someone leaves is always difficult.
Me: Yes, it is.
Nell: So, I thought lunch at the Cottage Hotel followed by a trip to the beach would be just the thing.
Me: You’re right.
Nell: Sea air is good for the soul.
Me: So is ice cream.
Nell: Exactly and a family dinner later will round off their visit perfectly.
Me: It’s been a truly wonderful few weeks. So many happy memories.
Nell: And the memories will stay with you forever. Remember that.
Me: I will.
Nell: Every time we go to the beach there they will be.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Now, what do you feel about pashminas?
Me: That’s a bit of a jump, Nell.
Nell: I know but Rupert and The Cat are thinking of including shawls in their next Knitwear Wolf range.
Me: I think it’s an excellent idea.
Nell: I agree. There’s nothing more perfect than popping on a pashmina on a summer’s evening. It’s both stylish and warm.
Me: You should model one.
Nell: My modelling days are over. I shall leave that to the younger ones.
Me: I know what you mean. I’m feeling my age at the moment.
Nell: Enough of that. Go and pack your optimistic bag with towels and swimwear and let’s get the family down to the beach.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
