Friday the 21st of February, 2025

Simply translate into English them scroll down for suggested solutions.

Gregor ist sehr unglücklich.  

Seine Schwiegermutter kommt zu Besuch. 

Sie bleibt für drei Wochen. 

Drei Wochen sind viel zu lang.  

Das letzte Mal blieb sie vier Wochen.  

Gregor hätte sie fast umgebracht.  

Die Schwiegermutter von Gregor ist eine sehr herrische Frau.  

Sie glaubt, sie sei der Boss. 

Sie ist eine Kontrollsüchtige. 

Was kann der arme Gregor tun? 

Einfach den Kopf einziehen.  

Nichts sagen.  

Drei Wochen werden vergehen. 

Langsam aber sicher.  

Vielleicht wird es gar nicht so schlimm sein.  

Mal abwarten, was passiert. 

Aber, Gregor hat einen neuen Spaten gekauft.  

Vielleicht muss er im Garten ein sehr tiefes Loch graben.  

Oder vielleicht sogar zwei sehr tiefe Löcher!

Gregor is very unhappy.  His mother-in-law is coming to stay. She's staying for three weeks. Three weeks is much too long.  Last time, she stayed for four weeks.  Gregor nearly killed her.  Gregor's mother-in-law is a very bossy woman.  She thinks she's the boss. She's a controll freak. What can poor Gregor do? Just keep his head down.  Say nothing.  Three weeks will pass. Slowly but surely.  Maybe, it won't be so bad.  Let's wait and see. But, Gregor has bought new spade.  Maybe, he will need to dig a very deep hole in the garden.  Or, maybe, even two very deep holes!

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The Farm at Lane's End. Also easy, but not so simple. Good luck!  Higher vocabulary.

The Farm at Lane's End - Chapter 34

The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of  everyday country life in England. Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son  Dave.  In chapter 34, Dave needs some money.

Vocabulary

To lend - You lend something to someone.  Can you lend me your car, please?  

To borrow - You borrow something from someone.  Can I borrow your car, please?

A tall order - A tall order is an unreasonable request.  Wanting me to help him on Christmas day was a very tall order.

That's the way the cookie crumbles is something one must accept. I'm sad, my gold fish has died, but, that's the way the cookie crumbles.

To pull someone's leg means to play a trick on them.

On the strength of something means you believe them because of  what they said.

Words you might like  to check -  To gamble - By the way - upset - habbit - 

Chapter 34

Farmer Ken and Dave are enjoying a well earned whisky.

I say, Dad, could you lend me ten grand, please?

Ten thousand pounds, Dave. That's a bit of a tall order. Why do you want to borrow so much money?

It's Claire, Dad.  She wants to go on holiday.  She wants to go to Las Vegas.  She wants to go gambling.  

You mean, Claire wants to borrow ten thousand pounds so she can go gambling!  Why can't she use her own money?

Claire says it's better to lose your money than hers.

Well, Dave, you can tell Claire to think again.  There's no way I'm going to give you money to throw away. And, by the way, Gambling's a very stupid habbit.

But, Dad, Claire will be upset.  How am I going to tell her you won't lend us the money?

Just tell her there's no way I'm going to lend you the money. And, if she's upset, just tell her that that's the way the cookie crumbles.

Actually, Dad, I was only pulling your leg.  I really need the money for a new tractor.  The old one keeps breaking down.  It's become too expensive to keep.

Well, Dave, on the strength of that, I'll give you twenty thousand pounds.  Get the best that you can.

Thanks, Dad.  I knew you'd understand.  Shall I pour another whisky?

Dave, that's a very silly question!

Cheers Dave, Cheers Dad.

Questions

Dave was pulling his father's leg. How much did he want to borrow from his father?

Why did Dave want to borrow so much money?

What story did Dave tell his father about Claire? 

What is Las Vegas famous for?

How do you understand "I was only pulling your leg"?

Explain - Can I lend you some money.

Tell us when you would say - can I borrow ten Euros, please.

What is a tall order?

What do you do when you pull someone's leg?

Please explain on the strength of that, I will give you the money,

14th of March, 2025

In the Stadtpark in Vienna

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good Luck!

Gabi und Sepp kommen am Samstag zu uns.  

Wir machen ein Abendessen.  

Andrew und Jane kommen auch.  

Meine Frau plant gerade das Menü.   

Ein Drei-Gänge-Menü.

Gar nicht so einfach.  

Tomatensuppe, Hühnersuppe, oder Kartoffelsuppe?  

Der Hauptgang? 

Huhn, Rind-, Schweine- oder Lammfleisch?   

Wie wäre es mit Fisch?  

Gemüse?  

Karotten und Kartoffeln?  

Pommes frites oder Bratkartoffeln?  

Manche Menschen bevorzugen Reis.  

Und Nachtisch?  

Kirschkuchen, Schokoladenkuchen, oder Käse? 

Und die Getränke?  

Das ist meine Aufgabe.      

Meine Frau ist eine sehr gute Köchin.  

Ich bin sicher, das Essen wird perfekt sein.

Gabi and Sepp are coming over on Saturday.  We're having a dinner.  Andrew and Jane are coming as well.  My wife is planning the menu.   A three course meal. Not so easy.  Tomatoe soup, chicken soup, or potatoe soup?  The main course?  Chicken, beef, pork, or lamb?   What about fish?  Vegetables?  Carrots and potatoes?  French fries or roast potatoes?  Some people prefer rice.  And sweet?  Cherry cake, chocolate cake, or cheese?   And, the drinks?  That is my job.      My wife is a very good cook.  I'm sure the meal will be perfect.

The Farm at Lane's End - Chapter 33

The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of a typical English farming family. The Bartons.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In chapter 33, Dave is down in the dumbs. 

Vocabulary

Down in the dumps - If you are down in the dumps, you are a little unhappy or even a little depressed.

I've got too much on my plate means I have very much to do.

Crossed one's mind.  If something has already crossed one's mind - means that one has already thought about it.

She would rather do this than that - means she would prefer  this and not that.   Prefer = rather.

To cope means to manage.  I can cope without you!

On the subject of something  means something related or connected to that we are presently talking about.

And now Chapter 33

I say, Dave, you're very quiet this evening.  Is everything all right.  

Oh, I'm Ok, mum.  Just a little down in the dumps, that's all. 

Oh, what's wrong, Dave?

Claire's decided it's not such a good idea to go to Whitby on Saturday.  She says she's got too much to do.  She's got too much on her plate. She'd rather stay at home and finish getting ready for her exhibition.

When is Claire's exhition, Dave?

It's next week, mum and dad.  And, to be honest, Claire really has a lot going on at the moment. She's very, very busy.

Can't you go round and help her, Dave?

That's already crossed my mind, mum and dad.  But, Claire says she can cope much better without me. 

What has Claire got to do, Dave?

Well, it doesn`t sound much.  She's got 3 pictures to finish, and 7 pictures to frame.  And, to be honest,  there's  really nothing I can do to help.

But, Dave, there is one thing you can do to help.  You can  give her one of my cherry cakes.  I'll bake one tomorrow.

A brilliant idea, mum.  She'd really appreciate it.  You're great, mum!  And, mum, while we're on the subject,  what's for sweet?

Your favourite.  Apple crumble and custard.  And, of course, whipped cream as well.

That's fantasti!c, mum.  I'm feeling better already.

And, to finish with, a glass of whisky.

Not just one glass dad, 2 or 3 would be great.

 That's my boy.  A chip off the old block. Cheers everyone, cheers!

Questions - Why is Dave down in the dumps?  - What does - I've too much on my plate mean?  why would Claire rather stay at home?  What jobs must Claire do?  - Does Claire want Dave to help her?   -  When is Claire's exhibition?  - What does Jean want to make for Claire? -  How do you understand the following - I can't cope without you?  Why is Dave a chip off the old block?  -  How do you understand - that's already crossed my mind?  What is apple crumble?  Would you rather have cheese cake or cherry cake?

Friday the 7th of February, 2025

 

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good Luck! 

Es ist Mitte Februar.  - 

Es ist immer noch sehr kalt.  - 

Als ich heute Morgen aufgestanden bin, waren es minus 5 Grad. -  

Aber die Tage werden länger.  -  

Jetzt ist es schon um 7 Uhr morgens hell.  - 

Und um 5 Uhr abends ist es immer noch hell.   - 

Ich freue mich auf den Sommer.  -  

Sehr lange Tage und sehr kurze Nächte.  -   

Aber auch der Februar hat seine besonderen Tage. -   

Der 14. Februar. - 

St.Valentinstag. -   

Gregors Frau freut sich immer auf den Valentinstag.  -  

Es ist der Tag, an dem Gregor ihr eine Blume schenkt.  -  

Eine rote Nelke. -   

Gregor bekommt sie geschenkt.  - 

Von der Sozialistischen Partei. -  

Sie verschenken die Blumen an der Bushaltestelle.  - 

Gregors Frau weiß das nicht.  - 

Sie kocht Gregor ein sehr schönes Essen. -   

Eine wunderbare Art, sich zu bedanken!  

It's the middle of February.  It's still very cold.  It was minus 5  when I got up this morning. But, the days are getting longer.  Now, it is already light at 7 in the morning.  And, it's still light at 5 in the evening.   I'm looking forward to summer.  Very long days and very short nights.  But, February has its special days, too. February the 14th.  St. Valentine's day. Gregor's wife always looks forward to St. Valentine's day.  It's the day Gregor gives her a flower.  A red carnation. Gregor gets it for free.  From the Socialist Party. They hand out the  flowers at the bus stop.  Gregor's wife doesn't know that.  She cooks Gregor a very nice dinner. A wonderful way to say thank you!

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The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of a typical English farming family. The Bartons.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In chapter 32, Ken and Jean are talking about uncle Ron. 

Vocabulary 

A penny for your thoughts - A penny for your thoughts means please tell me what you are thinking.

Warm hearted means kind and loving.  He was such a warm hearted man.

For the life of me - For the life of me is a phrase that means however hard I try.  However hard I try, I can't remember his name. For the life of me, I can't remember his name.

A chip off the old block means being the same - usually in character - as one's father. This phrase  normally speaks about boys.  Girls are "just like their mothers". 

Words you might like to check - loft - keen -

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And now to our story - The Farm at Lane's End, chapter 32

A penny for your thoughts, Ken!

Oh, hello Jean, I didn't hear you come in.

I'm not surprised, Ken.  You were far away. Lost in your thoughts.

I was thinking about my old uncle Ron.  He was such a warm hearted man.  Always doing good for others.  He was such a nice  person. 

Jean has a question

Didn't your uncle Ron and aunty Sheila help your mum at one of your birthday parties?

You've got a very good memory, Jean.

Was it your ninth or tenth birthday, Ken?

For the life of me, I can't remember, Jean.

I bet you can't remember the present  your uncle Ron and aunty Sheila gave you!

You're wrong, Jean.  I remember  it well.  They gave me a steam engine for my model railway.  And, further more, I still have it. The engine they gave me is in a box in the loft. And, another thing, Jean.  I can still remeber the present you gave me.

I don't believe you!  

You gave me a book about postage stamps.  Stamp collecting was one of my hobbies at the time. I used to be a very keen collector. Oh, and by the way, Jean, how did you know I collected stamps?

Your cousin Billy told me.  Billy and I used to sit next to each other at primary school.  I liked him very much.

You're right, Jean.  Billy was very nice, He was not only a very kind boy. he was a great friend as well. He was just like his dad.  A chip off the old block.   And  Jean,  You can do something that aunty Sheila could do, too. Your cherry cakes are fantastic, 

Thanks, Ken. That's nice of you.    Shall we have a   cup of tea?

That's a good idea, Jean. There's nothing nicer than a nice cup of tea.  I'll put on the kettle immediately.

Questions

Why didn't Ken hear Jean coming in?   Who was Ken thinking about?  How would you describe uncle Ron?  How do you understand "for the life of me"  What did uncle Ron and aunty Sheila give Ken for his birthday?  Why were uncle Ron and aunty Sheila at Ken's birthday party?  How did Jean know that Ken collected stamps?  How do you understand the meaning of "a chip off the old block?"  Why was Billy just like his father?  What has Jean in common with aunty Sheila?  How do you understand "a penny for your thoughts?"  

 

Friday the 31st of January, 2025

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good Luck!

Gregor hat eine Entscheidung getroffen.  

Ein Familienurlaub.  

Er und seine Frau fahren nach Afrika. 

Ein tolles Ziel. 

Die Westküste von Afrika.   

2 Wochen am Meer.  

Ein Badeurlaub.  

Gregor zieht es vor, am Pool zu bleiben.  

Gregors Frau genießt es, im Meer zu schwimmen.   

Gregor ist sehr glücklich. 

Er wird viel Zeit zum Lesen und Entspannen haben.  

Auch Gregors Frau ist glücklich.  

Ruhe und Frieden.  

Sonnenbaden und Schwimmen. 

Gregor lächelt.  

Es gibt sehr viele Haie im Meer. 

Gregor has made a decision.  A family holiday.  He and his wife are going to Africa. A great destination. The west coast of Africa.   2 weeks by the sea.  A bathing holiday.  Gregor prefers staying by the pool.  Gregor's wife enjoys swimming in the sea.   Gregor is very happy. He will have plenty of time to read and relax.  Gregor's wife is happy as well.  Peace and quiet.  Sunbathing and swimming. Gregor smiles.  There are very many sharks in the sea. 

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 The Farm at Lane's End -  Chapter 31

The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of a typical English farming family.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In chapter 31, Ken, Jean, and Dave are talking about a trip to the coast.

Vocabulary

Used to - Used to is a phrase that tells of something one did, but no more.  I used to go to school in London.  We used to go to Whitby every summer.

High tide  is when the sea is at its highest.

Low tide is when the sea is at its lowest.

To join in - To join in with something means to take part in something.  I joined in with the game.

Words you might like to check -  Day out, excursion, day trip, trip, outing. /  Sea side, coast.

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And, now to our story.  The Farm at Lane's End. Chapter 31.  The Bartons are planning an excursion to the sea side.

Dave starts - Mum and dad, we haven't been to the coast for a very long time.  How about a trip to the sea side?

Farmer Ken thinks Dave's idea is good. -  A good idea, Dave.  Just like old times.  When you were little, we often used to go to the coast.  

Jean joins in -  I remember, we often used to go to Whitby. We really enjoyed it there.  The beach was wonderful.  It streched for miles and miles when the tide was out, and at high tide when the sea was in, the beach was completely covered. High tide and low tide.  I remeber them well.

Ken has something to say - And, when the tide was out, everyone did what they wanted.  Everything from taking long walks to riding their horses.

Jean has something else to say - You're right Ken.  And, when the tide was in, we always used to go to that nice little restaurant at the top of the hill for fish and chips.  I can still taste it when I close my eyes.  The best fish and chips in the world.

Dave has become very enthusiastic - Mum and Dad, we really must go to Whitby again. As dad said, just like old times. Won't it be fun.  And, I'm sure, Claire would love to come, too.

Ken has one more thing to say - And, by the way, we could take the train.  The steam train that runs between Pickering and Whitby. The N.Y.M.R   The North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

The Bartons are happy.  Jean puts on the kettle for a nice cup of tea.

Questions - Where are the Bartons going?   Why do the Bartons want to go to Whitby? Please explain "we used to go to Whitby when you were little".   Where did you use to go to school?  What did Jean say about the beach?    How do you understand low tide?  How do you understand high tide?  Where did the Bartons use to go for something to eat?  Which meal did they choose?  What did Ken suggest at the end of the story?  What is speacial about the N.Y.M.R?  How do you understand the phrase, and, by the way? 

 

If you are interested!  The N.Y.M.R  Website, www.nymr.co.uk

Pickering to Whitby

In the north of England is a train that comes in from the coast. It's the NYMR and it runs from Whitby to Pickering. And, its first whistle blew a long time ago!

In 1836, the NYMR's first horse drawn train left Whitby for Pickering. A journey of beauty. There were the rises and falls of the dales, the pastel shades of the moors, rivers on their ways to the sea. villages sitting in hollows, and farms that dotted the horizon. And, all at horse drawn speed. But, 10 years later came change. Steam.

The NYMR was modernized and its one single track became two. And, the NYMR thrived.   For the next 100 years, It provided the villages and towns along its route with all that was needed for life.

But, then came the 1950s. The roads took-over. Lorries and cars were convenient and cheaper. The LYMR slid into decline. And, in 1965, its last whistle blew. The line fell asleep.

But, it didn't stay sleeping for ever! In 1973, the line reopened as a fully working museum. Once again, one could travel through beauty. And all thanks to the army of hard working enthusiasts who gave up their time to achieve this. But, the NYMR isn't only a museum. It has, once again, become an essential part of every day northern English life.

And, just like then, the NYMR is still being driven by the magic of steam.

The line that comes in from the coast is still there - and under full steam - and waiting for you! The North Yorkshire Moor's Railway. The NYMR.

For more details, www.nymr.co.uk

On Whitby Beach

Friday the 24th of January, 2025

In the Stadtpark in Vienna

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck and good fun!

Es ist 5 Uhr.  

Es ist Zeit aufzustehen. 

Es ist noch dunkel. 

Um wie viel Uhr gehst du zur Arbeit?  

Du musst dich beeilen.  

Du hast nur zehn Minuten Zeit.  

Du musst dich gut anziehen.  

Vergiss deine Fäustlinge nicht.  

Hast du deinen Schal dabei?  

Es ist sehr kalt draußen.  

Seien Sie vorsichtig. 

Glatteis.   

Es ist sehr rutschig auf dem Boden. 

Das ist sehr gefährlich.  

Wann kommst du nach Hause?  

Ich mache das Essen fertig.  

Dein Lieblingsessen.  

Würstchen mit Kartoffelbrei.

It's 5 o'clock.  It's time to get up.  It's still dark. What time are you going to work?  You must hurry.  You've only ten minutes.  You must wrap up well.  Don't forget your mittens.  Have you got your scarf?  It's very cold outside.  Be careful. Black ice.   It's very slippery underfoot. It's very dangerous.  When are you coming home?  I'll have dinner ready.  Your favourite.  Bangers and mash.

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The Farm at Lane's End -  Chapter 30

The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of a typical English farming family.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In chapter 30, Jean is getting ready to go out.

Vocabulary -

To wrap up means to put on very warm clothes.

Brass monkey weather is a coloquial expression that means extremely cold weather.

Treacherous means conditions that hide hidden dangers.

It's bound to be means something that is certain.

Words you might need to check - mittens, scarf, wooly hat, underfoot.

 And, now to our story.  The Farm at Lane's End.  Chapter 30

Jean is getting ready to go out.  She's going to the chemist's in the village. Ken is giving her some advice.

You'll need to wrap up, Jean.  It's very, very cold outside.  You'll definately need your thick wooly hat to keep your ears covered  and your mittens to keep your hands warm.

Just then, Dave comes in.  He's been  feeding the pigs.

I say, mum and dad, it's freezing outside. I can hardly feel my fingers.  It's brass monkey weather. 

Jean asks Dave about the conditions outside. 

Dave, is it slippery underfoot?  Is it icy?  

It's very, very icy mum.  If I were you, I would wear the warm winter boots that dad gave you for Christmas.  There's black ice everywhere. The last thing we want is you breaking a leg.  We'd have to do the cooking and cleaning ourselves.    That'd be terrible.

I promise to be careful, boys.  I say, has anyone seen my car keys?  I can't find them anywhere.  I can't remember where I put them. 

If I were you, Jean, I'd take the Jeep.  The roads are bound to be treacherous. As Dave said, there's black ice everywhere.

How long will you be gone, mum?

Not very long, Dave.  I'm only going to the chemist's. I'll be back before lunch. 

Drive safely, mum. See you later.

Bye Dave, bye Ken.

Questions - Please describe the weather.  Which month is it?  Is it summer or autumn?  Is it brass kangeroo weather?  Why should Jean wrap up well?  Did Ken advise Jean to wear gloves or mittens?  What did Dave say about the conditions?  Why did Ken suggest that Jean takes the Jeep?  How do you understand the word treacherous?  How do you understand the phrase "it's bound to be"?   Why is black ice treacherous?  Why did Jean go to the village?

Warm-ups 16 January, 2024

 

Ich schaue mir gerne Gartensendungen im Fernsehen an.  

Ich habe einen sehr großen Garten.  

Ich arbeite sehr hart in meinem Garten.  

Gregors Frau freut sich auf die Talkshows im Fernsehen. 

Sie mag österreichische TV sehr gerne. 

Susan sieht sich am liebsten Talkshows im deutschen Fernsehen an. 

Meine Frau findet Kochsendungen sehr interessant.  

Sie holt sich viele gute Ideen aus diesen Sendungen.  

Sie kocht jede Woche etwas Neues.  

Ich lese gerne gute Bücher. 

Am liebsten lese ich Geschichtsbücher.  

Gregors Frau liest gerne Kochbücher.  

Kochbücher haben sehr schöne Bilder. 

Bilder, die hungrig machen.

I enjoy watching gardening shows on TV.  I have a very big garden.  I work very hard in my garden.  Gregor's wife looks forward to chat shows on television. She likes Austrian TV very much. Susan prefers watching chat shows on German TV. My wife finds cookery shows very interesting.  She gets many good ideas from these shows.  She cooks something new every week.  I enjoy reading good books. History books are my favourite.  Gregor's wife enjoys cookery books.  Cookery books have very nice pictures. Pictures that make one feel hungry.

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The Farm at Lane's End is the ongoing story of a typical English farming family.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In Chapter 29, The Bartons are thinking about where to go on Saturday.

Vocabulary

To start the ball rolling means to start something.

The flicks is an alternative word for cinema - cinema/pictures/flicks/the movies

To recite - When someone recites a poem or other piece of writing,  they say it aloud after having learned it by heart

The Vicarage - The vicarage is the house where the vicar and his family live.

And, now to our story.  The Farm at Lane's End - Chapter 29

Ken starts the ball rolling.  I say Jean and Dave.  I fancy going out on Saturday. Any suggestions? 

Jean thinks for a minute.  We could go to the cinema. I haven't seen a good film for years. In fact, the last  time we went to the flicks we saw The Sound of Music.  And, that was many years ago. I really enjoyed the Sound of Music. A true Austrian story. The Austrians love singing.  They sing all the time. Maybe there's a good film on on Saturday.  

Dave is not so happy with his mother's suggestion.  I would rather do something different. How about going bowling?  Claire and I know a good bowling alley in Scunthorpe. Bowling is really great.  

Farmer Ken has other ideas.  I was thinking of something completely different. There's something on at the vicarage on Saturay.  A poetry reading.  Mrs. Duncan, the vicar's wife, is reciting from her new poetry book.  

Jean is curious.  I never knew that Mrs. Barton was a poet. A poetry reading sounds great to me.  What do you say Dave?  

Dave doesn't like this idea at all.  I know, mum and dad, you both go to the poetry reading, Claire and I will go somewhere different. A perfect compromise.

Farmer Ken agrees.  A good idea, Dave.  And, on Sunday, we'll all have lunch together. Everyone agrees. 

Questions - What did Ken want to do on Saturday?  What was Jean's suggestion?  What was the last film they saw at the flicks?  When did Jean and Ken last go to the pictures?  Was The Sound of Music a true story?  Was Dave happy with his mother's suggestion?  What was Dave' suggestion? Where was the bowling alley?  Was Farmer Ken happy with Dave's idea? What did Farmer Ken want to do?  Was Jean curious?   What  compromise did Dave suggest?  Have  you seen the Sound of Music?  

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Words of High Wisdom - by Nigel A. JAMES

This week's words of high wisdom come from Oslo in Norway-

Thursday the 9th of January, 2024

Skating Home for Lunch

Simply translate into English and scroll down for suggested solutions.  Goos Luck!

Gregor isst gerade zu Mittag. 

Seine Frau hat gerade ein sehr gutes Essen gekocht. 

Gregor hat 3 Lieblingsgerichte.  

Brathendel  mit Pommes.  

Gulasch.   

Schafshirn.  

Das Lieblingsgericht von Gregors Frau ist Huhn.  

Brathendel mit Kartoffelsalat.  

Salat zu essen ist sehr wichtig. 

Die Franzosen essen sehr viel Salat.   

Die Franzosen trinken auch sehr viel Wein. 

Österreichischer Wein ist der beste Wein der Welt.  

Vor allem Rotwein aus dem Burgenland und Weißwein von der Brunnerstraße.  

Gregor sagt, wir sind, was wir essen.  

Seine Frau ist ein sehr gutes Beispiel dafür.  

Gregors Frau isst oft Huhn zum Mittagessen. 

Und zum Frühstück ein schönes weich gekochtes Ei.  

Was ist Ihr Lieblingsgericht?

Gregor's having lunch. His wife has just cooked a very nice meal. Gregor has 3 favourite dishes.  Fried chicken and chips, goulasch, and sheeps' brains.  Gregor's wife's favourite meal is chicken.  Roast chicken with potatoe salad.  Eating salad is very important. The French eat very much salad.   The French, too, drink very much wine. Austrian wine is the best wine in the worl.  Especially  red wine from Burgenland and white wine from the Brunnerstrasse.  Gregor says we are what we eat.  His wife is a very good example.  Gregor's wife has often chicken for lunch. And, for breakfast a nice soft  boiled egg.  What's your favourite dish?

 

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The Farm at Lane's End - Chapter 28

The Farm at Lane's End is the story of English country life.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.    For the characters in this story, please click here 

Vocabulary

To come by - to come by something means to obtain or get something.

To inherit - to inherit means to get something from someone after their death.

And now to our story.  The Farm at Lane's End.  Chapter 28

Claire, Dave's girlfriend, has invited the Bartons for Sunday lunch.  Everyone's having a wonderful time.

Jean Barton likes Claire's crockery very much.  "I say, Claire, how did you come by this beautiful crockery?"    "I inherited it from my gran.  The design on the plates is wonderful. I really love yellow spots on blue backgrounds. This dinner service reminds me of sunny days and happiness".  

Farmer Ken is more interested in Claire's cooking.  "A very delicious lemon cake, Clair. Where did you get the recipe?"    "It was my gran's.  She got from a French farmer's wife in France.  And, this lemon cake was also my granfather's favourite cake.  My gran always made him one for his birthday.  Lucky grandfather".

Dave has become interested in Claire's grandfather.    "Claire, how old was your grandfather when he died?"   "Grandfather  was 93 when he passed.  He had a wonderful life."  "What did your grandfather do, Claire?"   "Grandfather was a clocksmith.  He made grandfather clocks and grandmother clocks.  And, all he had was a very small workshop,  And, from his very small workshop, he made very much money."

Farmer Ken is impressed.  "Claire, you come from a very intersting background.  And, you, too, are an interesting person.  Thank you for the wonderful lunch."

Questions

Does Jean like Claire's crockery?

How did Claire come by her dinner service?

Please describe the design on Claire's crockery?

What does Claire's dinner service remind her of?

What was Farmer Ken interested in?

Was Claire's cake an orange cake or a lemon cake?

From whom did Claire's grandmother get the lemon cake recipe?

Was Claire's grandmother's cake Claire's grandfather's favourite cake?

How old was Claire's grandfather when he passed?

What did Claire's grandfather do for a living?

Was Clair's grandfather successful?

Where did Claire's grandfather make his clocks?

Did Claire's grandfather make very much money?

Saturday the 4th of January, 2025

 Sailing in the Stadtpark in Vienna

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck!

Es ist an der Zeit, nicht mehr an den Winter zu denken.  

Lasst uns stattdessen an den Sommer denken.  

Wohin sollen wir gehen?  

Lass uns in den Süden gehen, wo es heiß ist.  

Im Süden ist es viel zu heiß.  

Ich würde lieber in den Norden gehen, wo es kühl ist. 

Skandinavien ist genau das Richtige für mich.  

Ich stimme zu, lass uns in den Norden fahren.  

Gregor plant auch ihren Sommer. 

Ein Fünf-Sterne-Hotel und ein schöner Strand.  

Ob das seiner Frau gefällt?  

Alles ist besser als letztes Jahr. 

Wo sind sie hingefahren?  

Sie sind nach Polen gefahren, um auf einem Bauernhof zu arbeiten.  

Sie haben die Kühe gemolken und die Ställe geputzt.  

Sehr schlechtes Essen und überhaupt kein Lohn.  

Warum sind sie gegangen?  

Weil es billig war.  

Nie wieder.

It's time to stop thinking of winter.  Let's think of the summer instead.  Where shall we go?  Let's go to the south where it's hot.  It's far too hot in the south.  I'd prefer going north where it's cool. Scandinavia's right up my street.  I agree, let's go to the north.  Gregor is also planning their summer. A five star hotel and a beautiful beach.  Will his wife like it?  Anything's better than last year. Where did they go?  They went to Poland to work on a farm.  Milking the cows and cleaning the stables.  Very bad food and no pay at all.  Why did they go?  Because it was cheap.  Never again.

 

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A New Year Surprise - Just have fun and enjoy it!

The Little Dustbin Girl from London

Little Hilary Benson lives in a dustbin in London.  And, there are three beautiful trees in her garden. A nut tree, an apple tree and a money tree. And, Hilary Benson's little garden shed is full of apples and nuts. But, sadly no money.

A cheeky little sparrow comes every day and steals all the money. He then takes it to Dublin and buys apples and nuts. And, what does he do with the apples and nuts? He wraps them up in nice paper and sends them to Hilary for Christmas.

What a nice little Sparrow!

Hilary Benson - The Little Dustbin Girl from London

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You can also listen to this story on SPOTIFY

 Click here to listen - Please allow time for SPOTIFY loading

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The Farm at Lane's End wii be back next week

Saturday the 21st of December, 2024

 

Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good Luck!

Gregor ist in den Keller hinuntergegangen.  

Gregor ist gegangen, um seinen Weihnachtsbaum zu holen.

Gregors Weihnachtsbaum ist aus Plastik.

Gregors Weihnachtsbaum ist dreißig Jahre alt.

Und er sieht immer noch wie neu aus.

Gregors Weihnachtsbaum sah sehr billig aus, als er ihn kaufte.

Und er sieht immer noch sehr billig aus.

Gregors Geschmack war schon immer sehr schlecht.

Die Aufgabe von Gregors Frau ist es, den Baum zu schmücken.

Rote Kugeln, goldene Kugeln und silberne Kugeln.

Alle aus Plastik und alle in China hergestellt.

Und auf der Spitze des Baumes ist ein roter Stern aus China.

Ein kommunistischer Plastikstern.

Ich wünsche dir ein frohes Weihnachtsfest.

 

Gregor has gone down to the cellar.    Gregor has gone to get his Christmas tree.  Gregor's Christmas tree is made out of plastic.  Gregor's Christmas tree is thirty years old.   And, it still looks like new.  Gregor's Christmas tree looked very cheap when he bought it.    And, it still looks very cheap.  Gregor's taste has always been very bad.    Gregor's wife's job is to decorate the tree.   Red balls, gold balls, and silver balls.    All made of  plastic and all made in China.    And, on the top of the tree is a red star from China.    A plastic communist star.    A very happy Christmas to you.

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The Farm at Lane'a End is on holiday. Farmer Ken and family will be back in the middle of Jamuary.

An Advent Story

Listen  to this true Advent story.  It happened a long time ago.  I hope you like it,

Click here to listen.

Have lots of fun!

Sunday the 15th of December, 2024

Simply translate into English and scroll down for suggested solutions.

Der kürzeste Tag des Jahres ist gekommen. 

Samstag, der 21. Dezember.  

Die längste Nacht.  

Mittwinter. 

Die Wintersonnenwende.  

Die Tage werden wieder länger. 

Der 22. Dezember ist der letzte Sonntag im Advent.  

Adventskränze. 

Alle vier Kerzen werden angezündet. 

Bergab zu Weihnachten. 

Eine sehr aufregende Zeit.  

Vor Weihnachten gibt es sehr viel zu tun. 

Einkaufen, kochen und backen.  

Den Baum schmücken.  

Die Geschenke einpacken. 

Dafür sorgen, dass alles bereit ist.  

Weihnachten ist etwas Besonderes.  

Eine stille Zeit, die nicht sehr ruhig ist. 

Aber Weihnachten kommt schnell und vergeht sehr schnell. 

Weihnachten ist im Nu vorbei. 

Dann klopft das neue Jahr an. 

Zeit, das Neue zu begrüßen.

The shortest day of the year has arrived. Saturday the 21st of December.  The longest night.  Midwinter. The winter solstice.  The days are getting longer. The 22nd of December is the last Sunday in Advent.  Advent wreathes. All four candles are lit. Downhill to Christmas. A very exciting time.  There is very much to do before Christmas. Shopping, cooking, and baking.  Decorating the tree.  Wrapping the presents. Making sure that every thing's ready.  Christmas is special.  A silent time that's not very quiet. But, Christmas comes quickly and goes very quickly. Christmas is gone in a flash. Then new year comes knocking. Time to welcome the new.

 

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The Farm at Lane's End 

The Bartons are spending Christmas and new year in America, They will be back with more stories in the middle of January.  So, until then, a very happy Christmas to you.

Friday the 6th of December, 2026

Friday the 17th of December, 2025

Ich schaue mir gerne Gartensendungen im Fernsehen an.  

Ich habe einen sehr großen Garten.  

Ich arbeite sehr hart in meinem Garten.  

Gregors Frau freut sich auf die Talkshows im Fernsehen. 

Sie mag österreichische Sendungen sehr gerne. 

Susan sieht sich am liebsten Talkshows im deutschen Fernsehen an. 

Meine Frau findet Kochsendungen sehr interessant.  

Sie holt sich viele gute Ideen aus diesen Sendungen.  

Sie kocht jede Woche etwas Neues.  

Ich lese gerne gute Bücher. 

Am liebsten lese ich Geschichtsbücher.  

Gregors Frau liest gerne Kochbücher.  

Kochbücher haben sehr schöne Bilder. 

Bilder, die hungrig machen.

 I enjoy watching gardening shows on TV.  I have a very big garden.  I work very hard in my garden.  Gregor's wife looks forward to chat shows on television. She likes Austrian shows very much. Susan prefers watching chat shows on German TV. My wife finds cookery shows very interesting.  She gets many good ideas from these shows.  She cooks something new every week.  I enjoy reading good books. History books are my favourite.  Gregor's wife enjoys cookery books.  Cookery books have very nice pictures. Pictures that make one feel hungry.

Tourists from Corinthia arriving in Wiener Neustadt

 Simply translate into English then scroll down for suggested solutions

Adventszeit ist Theaterzeit.  

Ich liebe es, ins Theater zu gehen.  

Es gibt viele verschiedene Arten von Theater.  

Klassisches Theater.  

Modernes Theater.  

Experimentelles Theater.   

Pantomimen.  

Gutes Theater braucht gute Stücke.  

Gute Stücke brauchen gute Dramatiker.  

Gute Schauspieler sind ein Muss.  

Ein gutes Bühnenbild ist sehr wichtig. 

Licht für das Gefühl.  

Jedes Stück braucht einen Regisseur.  

Aber das Wichtigste von allem ist das Publikum. 

Und ein gutes Publikum will sehr gutes Theater.

Advent time is theatre time.  I love going to the theatre.  There are many different kinds of theatre.  Classic theatre.  Modern theatre.  Experimental theatre.   Pantomimes.  Good theatre needs good plays.  Good plays need good playwrights.  Good actors are a must.  Good scenery is very important. Lighting for feeling.  Every play needs a director.  But, the most important of all is the audience. And, good audiences want very good theatre.

 

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The Farm at Lane's End is the story of English country life.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.   In this chapter, the Bartons are going away for Christmas.    For the characters in this story, please click here 

 

Vocabulary and phrases

after all - most importantly

to cope - to cope means to manage.  I can cope with very much hard work.

cut out - I have my work cut out  - I have something difficult to do.

cut out - I'm cut out for the job - I'm clever, talented, 

Questions

Why are Dave and Farmer Ken happy?

Why is Dave extra happy?

Which song is Jean singing in the kitchen?

How many eggs does Dave want for breakfast?

Where are the Bartons going for Christmas?

Are the Bartons flying third class with Aeroflot?

What is Andy cut out for?

What is Jean cut out for?

what is Dave cut out for?

How long are the Bartons staying in New Hampshire?

What does Sarah think about farm life?

How are the Bartons getting to the airport?

Why is New Hampshire a nice place to go for Christmas?

Which film was made in New England?

The story - Chapter 27

It's seven o'clock in the morning.  Farmer Ken and Dave have just come in from milking the cows.  Farmer Ken and Dave are very, very happy.  They are flying away.  Christmas in New Hampshire. And, Dave is more than happy.  Claire is coming as well.

In the kitchen, Jean is singing her favourite Christmas song.  White Christmas.  

Dave and Ken, breakfast is ready.

Coming mum!

One egg or two, Ken?

Two please, Jean.  I'm starving.

And, two for me, too, please.  This could be our last decent meal for a long time.

I don't thinks so Dave.  We are, after all,  flying first class.  Even British Airways has very good first class meals.  We won't be hungry when we reach Boston. 

Ken, what time will Andy and Sarah be here?

I'm expecting them any minute now, Jean.   And, by the way,  Andy told me that Jean is really looking forward to staying here for the next three weeks while we're away.  Sarah believes that running a farm is the easiest thing in the world.

And, I wonder how Andy's going to cope with running his shop and running the farm at the same time. He's certainly got his work cut out for the next three weeks.

Oh, don't worry about Andy.  He'll have no problem coping.  Andy's cut out for hard work. Just like you Jean, you're cut out for baking cherry cakes, and, Dave, you're cut out for milking cows and cleaning out pigs.

Clair's here, mum and dad.  I'll go and help her in with her luggage.

And, here come Andy and Sarah.  Everyone's here now.  So, let's get our luggage and wait outside.  The taxi will be here any second.

Andy and Sarah, thank you for everything. We're very thankful for  helping us out.

Yes, we're very grateful.

You're very welcome. I say, Ken. Just one question before you go. Have you any more old blue tractors you want to sell?

Very funny, Andy.  And a very happy Christmas Andy and Sarah.  See you when we get back in the middle of January.

Have a good flight  and a very happy Christmas.

German translation

Es ist sieben Uhr morgens.  Farmer Ken und Dave kommen gerade vom Melken der Kühe nach Hause.  Farmer Ken und Dave sind sehr, sehr glücklich.  Sie fliegen weg.  Weihnachten in New Hampshire. Und Dave ist mehr als glücklich.  Claire kommt auch mit.

In der Küche singt Jean ihr Lieblingsweihnachtslied.  Weiße Weihnachten.  

Dave und Ken, das Frühstück ist fertig.

Ich komme, Mama!

Ein Ei oder zwei, Ken?

Zwei bitte, Jean.  Ich bin am Verhungern.

Und für mich auch zwei, bitte.  Das könnte für eine lange Zeit unsere letzte anständige Mahlzeit sein.

Das glaube ich nicht, Dave.  Immerhin fliegen wir erster Klasse.  Sogar British Airways hat sehr gute Mahlzeiten in der ersten Klasse.  Wir werden nicht hungrig sein, wenn wir Boston erreichen. 

Ken, wann werden Andy und Sarah hier sein?

Ich erwarte sie jede Minute, Jean.   Übrigens, Andy hat mir erzählt, dass Jean sich sehr darauf freut, die nächsten drei Wochen hier zu bleiben, während wir weg sind.  Sarah glaubt, dass es das Einfachste auf der Welt ist, eine Farm zu führen.

Und ich frage mich, wie Andy es schaffen wird, seinen Laden zu führen und gleichzeitig den Bauernhof zu leiten. In den nächsten drei Wochen hat er auf jeden Fall viel zu tun.

Oh, mach dir keine Sorgen um Andy.  Er wird keine Probleme haben, das zu schaffen.  Andy ist für harte Arbeit gemacht. Genau wie du, Jean, zum Backen von Kirschkuchen, und du, Dave, zum Melken von Kühen und Ausmisten von Schweinen geeignet bist.

Clair ist hier, Mama und Papa.  Ich gehe und helfe ihr mit dem Gepäck rein.

Und da kommen Andy und Sarah.  Jetzt sind alle da.  Holen wir unser Gepäck und warten wir draußen.  Das Taxi wird jeden Moment hier sein.

Andy und Sarah, wir danken euch für alles. Wir sind sehr dankbar, dass ihr uns geholfen habt.

Ja, wir sind sehr dankbar.

Sehr gerne geschehen. Ich sage, Ken. Nur noch eine Frage, Hast du noch mehr alte blaue Traktoren zu verkaufen?

Sehr witzig, Andy.  Und ein frohes Weihnachtsfest, Andy und Sarah.  Wir sehen uns, wenn wir Mitte Januar zurück sind.

Einen guten Flug und frohe Weihnachten.