It was Mam’s second anniversary yesterday. Derek, Mary, Charlie and Dan joined me in The Great Institution for an afternoon of remembrance. A few pints, a little champagne and some Fererro Rocher all combined to help us along. Mam was not a pints woman, but she did have a fondness for the other two. Pizza in Gotham Cafe on South Anne Street was followed by a rain-escaping cappuccino back in Chatham Street. Derek and Mary very kindly escorted me back to my front door come the end of proceedings. They also picked up the bill for the day.

I have some very good friends.