1. The spring flowers in the front garden do make me smile. I’ll plant more bulbs for next year. In the meantime, I sneak little aubertia plugs in the spaces between them.

1b. Tilda walks along the stone wall. When she reaches me, I bend to kiss her and she stretches up to accept it.

2. I repeatedly poke Lily, trying to get her to look at me. She seems to know what I want so is refusing, playing the game. Eventually I give in and she finally looks at me with what I swear is an “I win” expression.

2b. Kaufman peeks around the column as Strange, who has been cool and distant all day, chirps and pads over for a hug.

3. We have to wait a long time for our main meals to arrive but they’re worth it: rich sauces and perfectly cooked meat.