‘This place is so deceiving from the outside, isn’t it!’ says Marjorie Malone in a voice that would break windows as she examines every room a few hours later. There’s simply nothing like an unexpected visit from the in-laws to ruin any given Sunday, is there? ‘Would you look at that view, Dad!’ she continues. ‘It’s like something out of that comical old John Wayne movie, The Quiet Man! And so much space for children to run around safely and not have to worry about traffic like we did when ours were young.’

Jack makes a face behind her back at her very obvious mention of babies and I try not to laugh. He loves his mother dearly, but she really has no idea of how to be subtle.

‘You won’t get much trouble from the neighbours, anyhow,’ says Jack Sr. ‘Ah, this is my idea of heaven, it really is. It’s just a slice of perfection. Well done, you two. You work hard and you deserve such a beautiful home.’

I often forget what Dr Malone Sr sounds like as he doesn’t really get much opportunity to speak when his wife is around, but one to one he’s a very kind, gentle soul and I can see where Jack gets his exceptional bedside manner in his job from. He certainly learned from the best.

‘Who fancies the pub, then?’ asks Jack, eager to give his parents something to do rather than skulk around the house passing comments, and to our surprise they agree. ‘We could grab a bit of a late lunch when we’re there. Come on, my treat.’

We walk for just over a mile past fields full of sheep and cows, scarecrows and strawberry fields and I feel like pinching myself to think that this utter tranquillity is on my doorstep. Jack’s father is right, we have worked hard to own our first home in such a beautiful place and, as annoying as Marjorie can be, it’s lovely to have visitors to share it with.

‘Jack, Charlotte, so good to see you!’ says Peter the barman when we stoop under the low red door into the darkness of the little country pub. ‘Nice to see some new faces too. You’re all very welcome.’

We decide to make the most of the lasting fine weather with a drink in the beer garden at the back of the pub, where we revel in the wonderful atmosphere that always greets us here. Traditional Irish music lilts in the background, couples, families and groups of young singles enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon drink and even Marjorie seems to enjoy it as she laps up the view with some people-watching.

‘Everyone is so friendly around here,’ says Jack to his parents. ‘I think we’re going to love it here.’

‘I already do,’ I tell him, and he takes my hand under the table.