Me: Happy New Year everyone. Let’s hope 2023 is a better year.
Nell: Happy New Year and I second that.
Me: You look as tired as I feel.
Nell: Can’t I even have a quick yawn without you taking a photo?
Me: I couldn’t resist it. Have you seen the Blubberys this morning?
Nell: They’ve already left on their honeymoon.
Me: Really? I’m sorry I missed them. Where are they going?
Nell: On a Devon cruise, I believe. Although Sir Roger said they might pop down to Cornwall. Weather permitting.
Me: Everything went really well yesterday all things considered.
Nell: It was extremely fortunate that Lionel had his ship. When the dinghy capsized with the whole of the Welsh Corgi Choir I was worried for a moment.
Me: We all were. There were floating corgis everywhere. Thank goodness for their life vest dresses. Well done The Cat.
Nell: Yes. Lionel and the Whippets Institute managed to fish them out really quickly and there was hot tea and a selection of fairy cakes waiting for them on board.
Me: Clever of the Whippets Institute to bring cakes.
Nell: The Whippets Institute always bring cakes. It’s in their constitution.
Me: Anyway, I have to admit that Lionel saved the day.
Nell: Yes. Who knows 2023 might see the start of a new Lionel King.
Me: I doubt it. Have you made any New Year resolutions?
Nell: No. You’re simply setting yourself up to fail with those. I’m just going to continue to be myself.
Me: I’m definitely going to try and eat less cake.
Nell: Good luck with that. Poppy’s made a Victoria sponge for afternoon tea.
Me: That’s my favourite.
Nell: I know.
Me: Maybe a very small slice then as it’s New Year’s Day.
Nell: I told you.
Me: Sorry.
