I thought it was drab.

Me: Did you like the Olympic opening ceremony?

Mum: I’m undecided.

Me: Really? Why’s that?

Mum: I thought it was awfully…drab. And it spent too long dwelling on the war. I lived through it, you know.

Me: But the war was only a remembrance of those who died and it didn’t last long at all.

Mum: But it was depressing and drab. I liked the fireworks though. And the bluebirds on bikes.

Me: But not the rest?

Mum: Nah, drab.

Me: …

*****

We are wandering around Tesco with mum’s list.

Mum: I want Rice Crispies and Cornflakes. (we are in the washing detergent aisle)

Me: I’ll remember when we get there, mum.

Mum: I want Rice Crispies and Cornflakes. (we are in the bread aisle)

Me: I know, mum.

Mum: I want Rice Crispies and Cornflakes. (we are in the pasta and rice aisle)

Me: I won’t forget, mum. It’s fine. Look, here we are now. Right, you want Rice Crispies and Cornflakes?

Mum: I want sweeties. Do you want sweeties?

Me: …