English Warnups - Saturday the 10th of October, 2026

English Warmups - Please translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.

Ein herrlicher Geruch.

Gregors Frau ist in der Küche.

Sie backt einen Kuchen.

Gregors Lieblingskuchen.

Einen Schokoladenkuchen.

Nach einem alten österreichischen Rezept.

Eine Sachertorte.

Perfekt mit Schlagobers.

Aber wo ist Gregor?

Er ist in New York.

Auf Geschäftsreise.

Armer Gregor.

Ein altbackener Kuchen wird auf ihn warten.

A wonderful smell. Gregor's wife is in the kitchen. She's baking a cake. Gregor's favourite. A chocolate cake. An old Austrian recipe. A Sachetorte. Perfect with whipped cream. But, where is Gregor? He's in New York. On business. Poor Gregor. A stale cake will be waiting for him.

Total Blackout

Total Blackout - William Shire was an American war correspondent. It was the Second World War. And, during his time in Europe, William Shire became the first ever radio reporter to broadcast live to the U.S.A. William Shire also kept a diary. The Berlin Years. A book which later became famous as an important and highly significant work of historical interest. And, William Shire didn't only write about the big guns of war, he wrote, too, about the perils of every day life. War was no picnic.

Berlin. November the 23rd, 1940. William Shire, whilst dining with friends, was called to the phone. It was a girl from German Radio. If he wanted to broadcast that evening, he should hurry. The British were approaching Berlin. They'd be here in 10 minutes time. Every second counted. Ignoring the curfew and blackout, William Shire ran to his car. But, his drive to the studio in a blackout was no easy thing. He managed to scrape at least 7 cars, and twice, he nearly ended up in the river. And, his worst crime of all was the driving at speed past policemen waving little red lamps. They were trying to stop him. William Shire got as near to the studio as he could, but, the last 2 blocks were a dash. The air raid wardens were also trying to stop him and force him into an air raid shelter. He had to run fast. And, just as the bombs started falling, William Shire got into the studio. That night, William Shire spoke to America as usual. He had never been stopped by an air raid. Then was not a good time to begin. And, 10 days later on the 4th of December 1940, William Shire said goodbye to Berlin. Americans were no longer welcome. And, his return to America was one of those „just in time“ experiences. More, of course, in Berlin Diary. Berlin Diary - check it out, it's still to be had. Berlin Diary – A brilliant work by William Shire

Monday the 5th of October, 2026

Welcome to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.

Ich habe Geburtstag!  

Was hast du mir gekauft?  

Etwas Teures?    

Hoffentlich etwas Besseres als letztes Jahr.  

Was habe ich dir letztes Jahr geschenkt?  

Ich kann mich nicht erinnern.  

Du hast mir gar nichts geschenkt.  

Bist du dir sicher?  

Ganz sicher.  

Nicht einmal eine Karte.  

Na ja, du hast mir auch nichts geschenkt.  

Also sind wir quitt.  

Eine neue Tradition.  

Lass uns das beibehalten.  

Eine sehr gute Idee.  

Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!

 It's my birthday!  What have you got me?  Something expensive?  Better than last year, I hope.  what did I give you last year?  I can't remember.  You didn't give me anything.  Are you sure?  I'm very sure.  Not even a card.  Well, you didn't give me anything either.  So, we're quits.  A new tradition.  Let's keep it going.  A very good idea.  Many happy returns of the day!

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The Bartons Chapter 27

Pearls Before Swine 

This week, the Bartons are trying to decide what to give Jean's mother for her birthday.  This is not very easy.    Phrases / Idioms

Throwing pearls before swine.  This means giving someone something they don't understand or appreciate.

Put on your thinking cap - this means start thinking.

I'm in a bit of a spot - I have a small problem.

You've got the wrong end of the stick means you have misunderstood.y 

A jiffy is a short space of time.

Pearls before swine -Perlen vor die Säue werfen. Das bedeutet, jemandem etwas zu geben, das er nicht versteht oder zu schätzen weiß.

Put on your thinking cap - Setz deine Denkmütze auf – das bedeutet, fang an zu denken.

I'm in a spot - Ich stecke ein bisschen in der Klemme – ich habe ein kleines Problem.

You've got the wrong end of the stick -„Du hast das falsch verstanden“ bedeutet, dass du etwas falsch interpretiert hast.

Ein „Jiffy“ ist ein kurzer Zeitraum.

The Story

Jean - Can you help me, boys?  I'm in a bit of a spot.  I can't think of anything for Granny's birthday.

Ken - I understand.  It's the same every year.  Choosing a present for your mother was never easy.

Dave - Well, Mum and Dad, let's put on our thinking caps. Have you any ideas at all, Mum?

Jean - I thought about some jewelry.  But, Mum's got more than she needs, and what she's got she never uses.  

Ken - All women have more jewelry than they need.  We must think of something really special.

Jean - What a good idea, Ken.  How about a nice picture for Gran's living room wall?

Dave - A nice picture.  What a good idea.  I could paint a picture.  I learned to paint at evening classes. Painting by numbers.  The teacher said I was very talented.

Ken - I think you've got the wrong end of the stick, Dave.  Your mum meant something different.  Your mum meant something very special.  Something like an old master

Jean - I was thinking of something like a Picasso. 

Ken - Come down to earth, Jean.  Giving your Mum a Picasso would be the same as throwing pearls before swine. And, anyway, who's going to pay for it?

Jean - I see what you mean, Ken. Dave, have you any ideas?

Dave - Maybe something for the kitchen.  A new frying pan?

Ken - A silly idea, Dave.  Gran hates cooking.  She always goes down to the pub for lunch.  A new frying pan is the last thing on earth she'd like.

Jean - But, that's it, boys!  Let's take Gran out for dinner. Somewhere really nice, somewhere really special.  Dave, you're a genius.

Ken - Your mum's right, Dave. Father like son.  You're a chip off the old block, Dave. 

Jean - So, all's well that ends well.  Shall I make a cup of tea?

Dave and Ken - And, a slice of cherry cake, please!

Jean - It'll be ready in a jiffy

Sunday the 27th of September, 2026

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Have fun and good luck.

Gregor schreibt ein Buch. 

Seine Autobiografie. 

Ein sehr interessantes Buch. 

Echt oder erfunden? 

Geschichten oder die Wahrheit? 

Gregor hat ein kleines Problem. 

Keine Ruhe und keinen Frieden. 

Wohin kann er gehen? 

Auf den Gipfel eines Berges? 

In den Wald? 

An einen See? 

Gregor hat Hunger. 

Aber seine Frau ist ausgegangen.  

Armer Gregor. 

Er muss sich sein Mittagessen selbst zubereiten.

Gregor is writing a book.  His autobiography.  A very interesting book.  Real or fake?  Tales or the truth?  Gregor has a small problem.  No peace and quiet. Where can he go?  To the top of a mountain?  Into the forest?  To the side of a lake?  Gregor is hungry.  But, his wife has gone out.  Poor Gregor.  He must make his own lunch.

Thursday the 17th of September, 2026

A famous bridge in  Venice

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Please translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions. 

Hallo, wie geht es Ihnen?

Gut, danke.

Haben Sie die Neuigkeiten aus Venedig gehört?

Sind es gute oder schlechte Nachrichten?

In gewisser Weise sind es gute Nachrichten.

Erzählen Sie mir.

Das Wasser in den Kanälen ist sehr klar geworden.

Tatsächlich!

Es sind wieder viele Fische zu sehen.

Genau wie in alten Zeiten.

Wann waren Sie zuletzt in Venedig?

Letztes Jahr.

Wir hatten eine wunderbare Zeit.

Meine Frau und ich lieben Venedig sehr.

Wir haben uns dort kennen gelernt.

Es war Liebe auf den ersten Blick.

Ich hatte sehr viel Glück.

Ich trug eine Maske.

Meine Frau auch!

Fahren Sie oft nach Venedig?

Nur zum Karneval.

Meine Frau sagt, ich sehe mit einer Maske besser aus.

Hello, how are you?    I'm fine, thank you.  Have you heard the news from Venice?

Is it good news or bad news?   In a way, it's good news.    Tell me about it.

The water in the canals has become very clear.    Really!    You can see lots of fish again.

Just like in the old days.   When was the last time you were in Venice?   Last year.

We had a wonderful time.   My wife and I love Venice very much.  We met there.

It was love at first sight.    I was very lucky.  I was wearing a mask.    So was my wife!

Do you often go to Venice?   Only for Carnival.   My wife says I look better with a mask on. 

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The Bartons Chapter 27 - An Early Start

To turn in means to go to bed.     To bump into someone means to meet someone by chance.  Its the early bird that catches the worm means that people who arrive first or act quickly get the best chances. Gormless means stupid and dull.  The Sharpest tool in the box is someone who is not very clever.

„To turn in“ bedeutet, ins Bett zu gehen.     „To bump into someone“ bedeutet, jemanden zufällig zu treffen.  „The early bird catches the worm“ bedeutet, dass diejenigen, die als Erste da sind oder schnell handeln, die besten Chancen haben. „Gormless“ bedeutet dumm und langweilig.  „The Sharpest tool in the box“ ist jemand, der nicht besonders intelligent ist.

An Early Start

Ken - Well, Dave, we'd better turn in early tonight,  we've got an early start in the morning.  We want to be at the market at 6.

Jean - Does that mean you want an early breakfast?

Ken - No thanks, darling. We're going to the Greasy Spoon for breakfast. Their breakfasts are brilliant. 

Dave - And, the Greasy Spoon is a great place for meeting old friends. One never knows who one's going  to bump into.

Jean - But, why are you going so early?

Ken - We want to buy some Guernsey cows.

Jean - But, why can't you go later?

Ken - As they say, Jean, it's the early bird that catches the worm.  

Jean - Well, I was talking to Mrs. Brown at the WI, and she said that her husband said one can go to the market at any time and still get a good bargain.

Ken - I know George Brown.  He's the most gormless person I know. And, I'm sure he's never bought anything at the market.

Dave - And, I know their son Clarence.  Clarence Brown. He was in my class at school.  We used to call him simple Clarence.  And, he wasn't the sharpest tool in the box.

Ken - Well, as they say, father like son.  It's always the same.

Dave - A quick drink to finish the day?

Jean - A good idea.  I think we deserve one.

Ken - Cheers everyone.  Here's to tomorrow!

Questions -  Why must Ken and Dave turn in early?  Where are Ken and Dave going in the morning?  Will Jean be cooking an early breakfast?   Where are Ken and Dave taking breakfast?  What is the Greasy  Spoon famous for?  Why are Ken and Dave going to the market?  Why is it good to be an early bird?  Who is gormless?   Was Clarence Brown the brightest tool in the box?  Who is the most gormless person you know?

 

Friday the 11th of September, 2026

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Please translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Have fun.

Letzte Woche gingen Anna und ihre Schwester ins Kino.  

Sie wollten einen Horrorfilm sehen.  

Sie waren sehr enttäuscht.  

Der Film war nicht nur schlecht, er war auch langweilig.  

Jetzt haben wir September.   

Die Ferien sind vorbei.  

Die Kinder gehen wieder in die Schule.  

Die meisten Kinder sind glücklich.  

Einige der Kinder sind traurig.  

Das Wetter hat sich geändert.  

Der Herbst ist zurück.  

Die Tage werden kürzer.  

Bald wird es Weihnachten sein. 

Suggested Solutions

Last week, Anna and her sister went to the cinema.  They went to see a horror film.  They were very disappointed.  The film was not only bad, it was boring as well.  Now it's September.   The holidays are over.  The children are going back to school.  Most of the kids are happy.  Some of the kids are sad.  The weather has turned.  Autumn is back.  The days are getting shorter.  Soon it will be Christmas

The Bartons will be back next week!

Sunday the 6th of September, 2026

 

 

English Warmups.  Welcome back!   Please translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Have lots of fun and good luck!

Morgen ist Montag. 

Ein ganz besonderer Montag. 

Ein Montag, den alle Kinder lieben. 

Die Schule beginnt wieder. 

Die Ferien sind vorbei. 

Man trifft wieder Freunde. 

Man tauscht Neuigkeiten aus. 

Vielleicht eine neue Schule? 

Man findet neue Freunde. 

Neue Lehrer. 

Neue Fächer. 

Ein Neuanfang. 

Genieße den heutigen Tag. 

Deinen letzten Tag in Freiheit.

It's Monday tomorrow.  A very special Monday. A Monday all children love.  It's back to school. The holidays are over.  Seeing friends again.  Catching up on news. Maybe a new school.  Making new friends. New teachers.  New subjects.  A new beginning.  Enjoy today.  Your last day of freedom.

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The Bartons chapters 24/25

 Mulling Things Over

Mulling things over -  Thinking slowly and deeply about things.  pondering - 

A snag - A small problem

My hands are tied - The decision is out of my hands.

Keep your hat on -  stay calm. Don't lose your temper. 

right away - immediately. 

Chapter 25 - Mulling Things Over

Jean - Guess what, Ken and Dave!  Sarah phoned me last night and invited me round for elevenses this morning. She said she fancied a chat.

Ken -  What you really mean is Sarah fancies a gossip.

Jean - That's not fair, Ken.  It's the men who gossip, not the women.

Dave - Well, it's all how you see things, Mum.  And, Dad, how are you this morning?  You've got a very serious, not-too-happy look on your face.  Is everything OK?

Ken - I've been mulling things over, Dave.  I'm worried about the barn. Nothing seems to be happening.  There's no progress.  It's as if you and Jane have lost interest in your future home. 

Jean - Yes, Dave, we're really quite worried. 

Ken - So, when are you going to make up your minds about the final plan? We must get on with the work.  Do you understand, Dave?

Dave - Of course,  I understand, Dad.  But there's one little snag. Jane and I have already made up our minds, but Jane wants to ask her mother before finally deciding. She thinks her mother knows best.

Ken - Am I hearing things? It seems you're letting Jane's mother decide everything.  Can't you think for yourselves?  And, when is Jane going to ask her mother?

Dave - When they get back from their holiday, Dad.

Ken - That's another 5 weeks, Dave. 

Dave - I know, Dad.  And I'm very sorry.  But there's nothing I can do.  My hands are tied.

Ken - Nothing you can do, Dave!??  Of course there's something you can do!  You can make a decision, and I want it by 4 o'clock this afternoon.  If not, I'm cancelling the project, and you and Jane can live in the caravan.  

Dave - But, Dad ..

Ken - No buts, Dave.  You've got 'til 4 this afternoon.

Dave - OK, Dad, keep your hat on, I'll phone Jane right away. And, if Jane can't decide, I'll decide.

Ken - That's my boy, Dave.  You're a good egg.

Jean - Well, that's decided.  And, I'll put on the kettle for another cup of tea.

Questions - Who phoned Jean?  Why did Sarah phone Jean?  Why is Ken in a serious mood?  Why must Jane's mother make the final decision about the barn?  Why are Dave's hands tied?  When can Jane's mother make this decision?  What ultimatum did Ken give Dave?  Did Dave understand his father's ultimatum?  What action did Dave promise to take?  What do you think about Jane's mother?  Why does Jane allow her mother to be so dominant?

Sunday the 30th of August, 2026

The Hudson Bridge over the Thames in London

English Warmups.  Welcome back!   Please translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Have lots of fun and good luck!

Morgen ist Montag. 

Ein ganz besonderer Montag. 

Ein Montag, den alle Kinder lieben. 

Die Schule beginnt wieder. 

Die Ferien sind vorbei. 

Man trifft wieder Freunde. 

Man tauscht Neuigkeiten aus. 

Vielleicht eine neue Schule? 

Man findet neue Freunde. 

Neue Lehrer. 

Neue Fächer. 

Ein Neuanfang. 

Genieße den heutigen Tag. 

Deinen letzten Tag in Freiheit.

It's Monday tomorrow.  A very special Monday. A Monday all children love.  It's back to school. The holidays are over.  Seeing friends again.  Catching up on news. Maybe a new school.  Making new friends. New teachers.  New subjects.  A new beginning.  Enjoy today.  Your last day of freedom.

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The Bartons chapters 24/25

 Mulling Things Over

Mulling things over -  Thinking slowly and deeply about things.  pondering - 

A snag - A small problem

My hands are tied - The decision is out of my hands.

Keep your hat on -  stay calm. Don't lose your temper. 

right away - immediately. 

Chapter 25 - Mulling Things Over

Jean - Guess what, Ken and Dave!  Sarah phoned me last night and invited me round for elevenses this morning. She said she fancied a chat.

Ken -  What you really mean is Sarah fancies a gossip.

Jean - That's not fair, Ken.  It's the men who gossip, not the women.

Dave - Well, it's all how you see things, Mum.  And, Dad, how are you this morning?  You've got a very serious, not-too-happy look on your face.  Is everything OK?

Ken - I've been mulling things over, Dave.  I'm worried about the barn. Nothing seems to be happening.  There's no progress.  It's as if you and Jane have lost interest in your future home. 

Jean - Yes, Dave, we're really quite worried. 

Ken - So, when are you going to make up your minds about the final plan? We must get on with the work.  Do you understand, Dave?

Dave - Of course,  I understand, Dad.  But there's one little snag. Jane and I have already made up our minds, but Jane wants to ask her mother before finally deciding. She thinks her mother knows best.

Ken - Am I hearing things? It seems you're letting Jane's mother decide everything.  Can't you think for yourselves?  And, when is Jane going to ask her mother?

Dave - When they get back from their holiday, Dad.

Ken - That's another 5 weeks, Dave. 

Dave - I know, Dad.  And I'm very sorry.  But there's nothing I can do.  My hands are tied.

Ken - Nothing you can do, Dave!??  Of course there's something you can do!  You can make a decision, and I want it by 4 o'clock this afternoon.  If not, I'm cancelling the project, and you and Jane can live in the caravan.  

Dave - But, Dad ..

Ken - No buts, Dave.  You've got 'til 4 this afternoon.

Dave - OK, Dad, keep your hat on, I'll phone Jane right away. And, if Jane can't decide, I'll decide.

Ken - That's my boy, Dave.  You're a good egg.

Jean - Well, that's decided.  And, I'll put on the kettle for another cup of tea.

Questions - Who phoned Jean?  Why did Sarah phone Jean?  Why is Ken in a serious mood?  Why must Jane's mother make the final decision about the barn?  Why are Dave's hands tied?  When can Jane's mother make this decision?  What ultimatum did Ken give Dave?  Did Dave understand his father's ultimatum?  What action did Dave promise to take?  What do you think about Jane's mother?  Why does Jane allow her mother to be so dominant?

An Extra Warmup exercise just for fun!

Der Sommer ist fast vorbei. 

Die Tage werden kürzer. 

Gregor ist draußen im Garten. 

Er genießt das schöne Spätsommerwetter.

Bald ist Herbst. 

Herbstfarben. 

Fallende Blätter. 

Viel Arbeit im Garten. 

Laub zusammen kehren. 

Äpfel pflücken. 

Trauben ernten. 

Wieder ein gutes Jahr. 

Wieder ein guter Wein. 

Der Winter mag kommen.

Summer is nearly over.  The days are getting shorter.   Gregor is out in the garden.  Making the most of the fine summer weather.  Soon Autumn will be here.  Autumn colours. Falling leaves. Much work in the garden.  Raking the leaves.  Picking the apples.  Harvesting the grapes. Another good year.  Another good wine.

Saturday the 22nd of August, 2026

 

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions. Have fun and good luck!

Mir ist langweilig. 

Ich weiß nicht, was ich tun soll. 

Ich weiß schon, ich rufe Brenda an. 

Ich bin mit ihr zur Schule gegangen. 

Ich habe sie seit Jahren nicht mehr gesehen. 

Mindestens 40 Jahre. 

Vielleicht hat sie sich verändert. 

Das werden wir bald sehen.  

Oh nein, sie sitzt im Gefängnis.  

20 Jahre wegen Mordes an ihrem Mann.  

Sie war meine beste Freundin.  

Na ja, du weißt ja, was man sagt!  

Gleich und Gleich gesellt sich gern.

I'm bored.  I don't know what to do.  I know, I'll phone Brenda up.  I went to school with her. I haven't seen her for years. At least 40 years.  Maybe she's changed. We'll soon see.  Oh no, she's in prison.  20 years for murdering her husband.  She was my best friend.  Well, you know what they say!  Birds of a feather flock together.

 

The Bartons will be back on the 26th of August, 2026

Monday the 17th of August, 2026

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck and have fun.

Es ist ein wunderschöner Montagmorgen. 

Es regnet. 

Nicht viel. 

Gerade genug. 

Unsere Gärten brauchen es. 

Die Landwirtschaft auch. 

Die Flüsse sind zu niedrig. 

Die Natur leidet. 

Aber die Natur weiß es immer besser. 

Bald wird wieder alles gut sein.

It's a beautiful Monday morning.  It's raining. Not much.  Just enough. Our gardens need it.  Agriculture, too.  The rivers are low.  Nature is suffering.  But, nature always knows better. Soon, everything will be fine once again.

 

The Bartons will be back in September.

9th of August, 2026

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down to the bottom for suggested solutions.  Have fun and GOOD LUCK!

Es ist kurz nach 10.  

Gregors Frau wird gleich nach Hause kommen.  

Sie ist zum Markt gegangen.  

Um Aprikosen zu kaufen.   

10 Kilo.  

Gregors Frau kocht gerne Marmelade.  

Eine tolle Beschäftigung im Sommer.  

In der Hitze der Küche.  

Oh nein!  

Gregors Frau hat den Zucker vergessen.  

Armer Gregor.  

Morgen gibt es saure Marmelade auf seiner Semmel. 

Kein süßer Start in den Tag.

It's just after 10.  Gregor's wife will be home in a minute.  She's gone to the market.  For Apricots.  10 kilos.  Gregor's wife enjoys making jam.  A great thing to do in the summer.  In the heat of the kitchen.  Oh no!  Gregor's wife has forgotten the sugar.  Poor Gregor.  Sour jam on his semmel tomorrow. Not a sweet way to start off his day.

 

4th of July, 2026 - Gregor has a Surprise

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Have fun and good luck!

Gregor ist voller Freude. 

Er hat eine Überraschung. 

Er hat einen schönen Urlaub gebucht.  

Last-Minute.  

Zwei Wochen auf den Bahamas.  

Hin- und Rückflug in der ersten Klasse.  

Ein 5-Sterne-Hotel.  

Mit Blick aufs Meer.  

Und 50 % günstiger als bei allen anderen.  

Dummer Gregor!  

Er hat nur für eine Person gebucht.  

Seine Frau muss zu ihrer Mutter nach Linz fahren.  

Armer Gregor.  

Ein Urlaub ganz allein.  

Zwei Wochen auf den Bahamas.

Gregor is joyful.  He has a surprise.  He has booked a nice holiday.  Last minute.  2 weeks in the Bahamas.  First class there and back.  A 5-star hotel.  Overlooking the sea.  And, 50% cheaper than everyone else.  Silly Gregor!  He only booked it for one.  His wife must go to her mother's in Linz.  Poor Gregor.  A holiday alone.  2 weeks in the Bahamas.

Monday the 27th of July, 2026

Welcome back to summertime fun on English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.

Es ist ein sehr heißer Tag. 

Über 30 Grad. 

Gregor ist mit seiner Frau unterwegs. 

Zu einem Heurigen. 

Nicht weit von Nussdorf entfernt. 

In den Wiener Weinbergen. 

Ein sehr langer Spaziergang. 

45 Minuten. 

Ein sehr anstrengender Spaziergang. 

Die ganze Zeit bergauf.   

Endlich kamen Gregor und seine Frau am Heurigen an. 

Erschöpft.  

Oh nein!  

Der Heurigen ist geschlossen. 

Gregors Frau hat sich geirrt.  

Die Heurigen öffnen erst nächste Woche.  

Armer Gregor.  

Ein sehr anstrengender Spaziergang für nichts.

It's a very hot day.  Over 30 degrees.  Gregor has gone out with his wife.  To a Heurigen. Not far from Nussdorf.    In the Viennese vineyards.  A very long walk.  45 minutes.  A very hard walk. Uphill all the way.   Finally, Gregor and his wife arrived at the Heurigen. Exhausted.  Oh no!  The Heurigen's closed. Gregor's wife made a mistake.  The Heurigen's open next week.  Poor Gregor.  A very hard walk for nothing at all.

The Bartons are on holiday, back in September.  Have a nice summer!

Saturday the 18th of July, 2026

English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions. Have fun and good luck.

Wo ist Gregor?   

Er ist draußen im Garten.  

Er gießt die Rosen. 

Eine ganz schöne Arbeit. 

Der Boden ist steinhart.  

Die Pflanzen sind durstig.  

Seit einem Monat hat es nicht mehr geregnet. 

Gregor ist fertig.  

Er hat den ganzen Vormittag dafür gebraucht. 

Schau hoch zum Himmel.  

Sehr dunkle Wolken. 

Es regnet in Strömen.  

Donner und Blitz.  

Komm schnell rein. 

Du willst doch nicht nass werden.  

Armer Gregor.  

So viel harte Arbeit.  

Und das alles umsonst.

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Where is Gregor?   He's out in the garden.  Watering the roses. A very big job. The ground is rock hard.  The plants are thirsty.  No rain for a month. Gregor has finished.  He needed all morning. Look up at the sky.  Very dark clouds. It's raining cats and dogs.  Thunder and lightning.  Come inside quickly. You don't want to get wet.  Poor Gregor.  Lots of hard work.  And, all for nothing at all.

The Bartons - Chapter 23 - Visitors

 Hard work - anstrengend

funny - Komisch

takes the biscuit  - If a story takes the biscuit means it is the ultimate.  It can't be beaten   

Engaged - verlobt  (they got engaged last year)

far-fetched - A far-fetched story is an unlikely story.  Hard to believe.

To take with a pinch of salt -  please don't take it at face value. Question it.

Mum's the word -  keep it a secret - say nothing

Visitors

Thank God they've gone, Jean.  They were very hard work. 

I'm exhausted, Ken. Jane's mum and dad are really very nice people, but enough is enough.

And, if only Jane's mum could stop talking so much.  

But,  one thing I really must say, Ken,  Jane's dad is a very nice man.  What he managed to tell us about his life in Africa as a missionary was very, very interesting.  Especially the times he was nearly eaten alive by lions. Being a missionary was no easy job.

And, I bet, the lions weren't the only ones wanting to eat him alive.  I've heard all sorts of funny stories about living in Africa.  And, how he met Jane's mother.  That really does take the biscuit!

How did it happen, Ken?

It was bad luck and good luck,  Jean.  Jane's dad had managed to miss the plane to London. That was the bad luck, and British Airways managed to rebook him on a plane the following morning.  It meant sleeping in an uncomfortable chair at the airport, but Jane's dad was young in those days. But,  the good luck was still to come. Sitting next to Jane's dad on the plane was a beautiful young lady.  And, when they landed in London, they were engaged.

Are you sure that's true, Ken?  The whole thing sounds just a little too far-fetched for me.  Maybe we should take what Jane's father says with just a small pinch of salt in the future.  I wonder what really happened?

Well, you can ask Jane's mum for her version of the story next time you see her.

And, that won't be for a while, Ken.  Jane's mum and dad are going away for a month. They're going to Australia and New Zealand. They really need a holiday.

Australia and New Zealand!  Am I hearing things?  I thought they were poor!  

Well, obviously not so poor as they want us to believe.  

I think we should be more careful in future, Jean. We'll say nothing. Nothing at all.  The truth will come out on its own. In the meantime, mum's the word.

But, right now, Ken.  Let's have a nice cup of tea and a nice slice of cherry cake.

Tuesday the 7th of July, 2026

English Warmups

An Elephant dressed up as a Wolf

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

Gregor kann sein Buch über Elefanten nicht finden. 

Das Buch, das ihm seine Frau zu Weihnachten geschenkt hat. 

Die perfekte Lektüre vor dem Schlafengehen. 

Ein Buch mit wunderschönen Bildern. 

Alle in Afrika aufgenommen. 

Eine Safari in Afrika. 

Gregors größter Traum. 

Gregor hat sein Buch gefunden. 

Dort, wo er es hingelegt hatte. 

In seiner Bibliothek. 

Aber am falschen Platz.  

Unter „T“ wie Tiere, nicht unter „E“ wie Elefanten.  

Armer Gregor.  

Ein Fehler, den jeder leicht machen kann.

Gregor can't find his book about elephants.  The book his wife gave him for Christmas.  Perfect bedtime reading.   A book with wonderful pictures.  All taken in Africa.  A Safari in Africa. Gregor's biggest dream. Gregor has found his book.  Where he had put it.  In his library.  But in the wrong place.  Under A for animals, not E for elephants.  Poor Gregor.  An easy mistake anyone can make.

English Warm Ups - Thursday, 25th of June, 2026

English Warmups  - Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions. 

Könntest du mir bitte den Wein reichen?  

Rot oder Weiß?  

Weiß, bitte.  

Für Rot ist es viel zu heiß.  

Mineralwasser oder Limonade?  

Mineralwasser, bitte.  

Wasser für mich, 

Wein für meine kleine Tochter!  

Wie alt ist deine kleine Tochter?  

Nächstes Jahr wird sie 6.  

Ist es nicht zu jung, um schon Alkohol zu trinken?  

Es ist das klügste Mädchen in ihrer Klasse.  

Man darf einem Kind doch keinen Alkohol geben!  

Ich weiß, das war nur ein Scherz. 

Aber es ist wirklich das klügste Kind in ihrem Jahrgang.  

Prost.

Can you pass the wine, please?  Red or white?   White, please.  It's far too hot for red.  Mineral or soda?  Mineral, please.  Water for me, wine for my little daughter!  How old is your little daughter?   6 next year.  Not too young to be drinking?  She's the cleverest girl in her class.  You can't give alcohol to a child!  I know, I was only joking. But, she really is the cleverest child in her year.  Cheers.

 

The Bartons - Chapter 22

Welcome Home - Ken and Jean have arrived home from Spain.  They are happy to be back.

Idioms

To fall for someone means to fall in love with them.

A little bit nuts means you are a little bit crazy (in a nice way).

The patter of tiny feet - The sound of little children's feet as they run around.  

The proof of the pudding is in the eating - The true value or success of something can only be judged after testing or eating it -  Den wahren Wert oder Erfolg von etwas kann man erst beurteilen, nachdem man es ausprobiert oder gegessen hat. 

If you're a chip of the old block means you're just like your father - you take after him.

And now to our story.

Hello everyone.  We're back

Hello, Mum and Dad. Welcome home. It's nice to have you back.

Hello Dave and  Jane.  How are you both?  

We're fine, thanks, Mr. and Mrs. Barton. How was your trip?

Come, come Jane.  From now on, please call us  Jean and Ken.  You're one of the family now.

So, Dad, how was Spain

It was brilliant, Dave.  The only thing was that it was full of funny foreigners drinking red wine and speaking a funny foreign language.  

They were not foreigners, Ken.  They were Spaniards speaking Spanish.  We were the foreigners.  Well, anyway, Dave.  I can see Jane hasn't killed you. You must have done something right.  

We had a wonderful time. Dave was really nice.  Now I know what farming life is all about.  It's no picnic; it's very hard work, and I really love the animals.

Yes, Mum and Dad, Jane really fell for the pigs. In fact, she even gave them names.  She christened the black and pink pig Agnes. 

I think you're a little bit nuts, Jane. Poor Agnes. With a name like Agnes, she probably thinks she's a sheep.  Agnes Day and all that!

You mean Agnus Dei, Ken.  Not Agnes Day.

Well, I was never good in French at school.

Agnus Dei is Latin, Ken.  And, now, please stop being silly, Ken.  And, Jane and Dave, I can see you're going to be the perfect farming couple. I'm so happy for you both.  And, hopefully, in a year or two we'll be looking forward to the patter of tiny little feet running happily around the farm. 

Maybe a little bit sooner, Mum and Dad.

Well, life can be full of surprises.

It certainly can, mum.  And Jane has a very big surprise for you.  Close your eyes and don't open them until I say so.   OK, you can open them.

A Cake!  A wonderful cake. Did you buy it?

No, Jean, I made it myself.  Mum's been giving me baking lessons.  I hope you like it.

It looks like a Schwarzwaldtorte.

Actually, it's a chocolate cake. 

Well, I'm sure it'll be delicious anyway, thanks, Jane.

And, as they say, Jane, the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

And, where is the tea, Jane?

Oh no!  I completely forgot.   Dave, please put the kettle on. 

No stress, my wonderful future wife.  Rome wasn't built in a month, either!

You mean in a day, Dave.  You really are a chip off the old block.

Well, whatever, welcome home, Mum and Dad.

Sunday the 21st of June, 2026

Austrian tourists on their way to Greece 

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested translations.  'Have fun and good luck!

Armer Gregor. 

Seine Frau hat immer recht. 

Sie weiß es immer besser. 

Draußen sind es 39 Grad. 

Gregors Frau sitzt drinnen in der Kühle. 

Seine Frau braucht Urlaub. 

Irgendwo, wo es schön kühl ist? 

Skandinavien? 

Fliegen wir doch in den Süden. 

Ist eine griechische Insel in Ordnung? 

Perfekt. 

Gregors Frau liebt die Hitze. 

Komm, lass uns in den Garten gehen.  

Es ist viel zu heiß. 

Armer Gregor.  

Er hat überhaupt keine Chance.

Poor Gregor.  His wife is always right.  She always knows better.   It's 39 degrees outside.  Gregor's wife is inside in the cool.  His wife needs a holiday.  Somewhere nice and cool?  Scandinavia?  Let's fly to the south.  Is a Greek island OK?  Perfect.  Gregor's wife loves the heat. Come on, let's go into the garden.  It's far too hot. Poor Gregor.  He has no chance at all.

Audio following soon!

Saturday the 13th of June, 2026

The Graben in Vienna

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

Gregor hat alle Hände voll zu tun. 

Er putzt die Wohnung. 

Seine Frau ist auf dem Weg nach Hause. 

Sie kommt heute Abend um 19 Uhr an. 

Gregor muss zum Flughafen fahren. 

Es gibt noch viel zu tun. 

Keine Zeit für eine Pause. 

Das Telefon klingelt. 

Es ist Gregors Frau. 

Eine Planänderung. 

Sie kommt erst Ende nächster Woche zurück. 

Armer Gregor. 

So viel harte Arbeit umsonst.

Gregor is busy.  He's cleaning the house.  His wife is on her way home.   Arriving this evening at 7.  Gregor must go to the airport.  Still much to do.  No time for a rest. The phone rings.  Gregor's wife.  A change of plans.  She'll be back at the end of next week.  Poor Gregor.  Lots of hard work for nothing.

The Bartons   Chapter 21  - A Short Break

Idioms 

To get back to someone means to talk to them later. 

To get the hang of something means to learn how to understand or do something.

To be pushed in at the deep end means to start at a hard/difficult point with no training.

To take with a pinch of salt means not to take things too seriously.

Under the thumb - if you are under the thumb means you are in his/her control.

To jump at the chance - to quickly take the offer/oppurtunity.

+ + + + + + 

Ken and Jean are enjoying a nice cup of tea.  Dave has gone out.

I bumped into Andy in the village this morning, and you'll never guess what he told me!

He told you he was taking Sarah to Spain for a long weekend. 

How did you know, Jean?  Andy told me to keep it under my hat. It was a secret.

So much for Andy's secrets.  Sarah phoned me about an hour ago.  She told me all about Andy's big secret.  And, furthermore, she asked me if we'd like to join them. 

Andy asked me the same.  I said I would talk to you and get back to him.

No need, Ken.  I've already decided. I said we'd love to go.

Well, Jean, you could have asked me. But, nevertheless, you did the right thing.  A few days away would be great.  And, who's going to look after the farm while we're gone?

Dave and Jane, of course.  I think it's high time Jane got a taste of real farm life and all the work that goes with it. 

Well, it'll be a bit like being pushed in at the deep end.  But, I'm sure Jane will soon get the hang of misting out pigsties and milking the cows.  I'm certain she'll take to it all like a duck takes to water.

And, I'M sure the pigs and cows will quickly take to Jane, too.  

You're right, Ken.  Jane does seem to have a special way with animals.

And, she has a very special way with men, too.

Don't be horrible, Ken.

You should learn to take what I say with a pinch of salt, Jean.  But, while we're talking about Jane,  baking doesn't seem to be one of her strong points.  Maybe you could teach her how to bake a cherry cake before we go, Jean. 

No time, Ken.  We're leaving at first light tomorrow. 

So soon, Jean.  Andy never told me that.  And, Jean, next time, please ask me what I think of the whole thing!

No need, Ken, you always agree with everything I want.  I've got you well trained.

More like under the thumb.  And, what about Jane?

All taken care of.   Everything's arranged.  Jane'll be here in about an hour. She jumped at the chance of being a weekend farmer's wife.

So, is there anything else left for me to do?

Yes, Ken. sit down and have a slice of cherry cake.

Questions. Can women keep secrets?  Was Ken surprised that Jean knew about Spain?  How is Jane going to get a taste of farm life?  Does Jane need baking lessons?   Is Ken under Jean's thumb?  What chance did Jane jump at?  What is left for Ken to do?

Saturday the 6th of June, 2026

A family from Sooss on their way to Vienna

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.   Good luck and good fun!

Gestern haben wir einen Ausflug nach Sooss gemacht. 

Ein ganz kleines Dorf. 

Im Wiener Wald. 

Wir sind mit dem Zug gefahren. 

20 Minuten von Wien entfernt. 

Am Bahnhof wurden wir abgeholt. 

Sissi hat uns abgeholt. 

Mittagessen in einem Heurigen. 

Sehr, sehr gut. 

Danach Kaffee und Kuchen bei Sissi. 

Ein sehr langes Gespräch. 

Kurz nach sieben sind wir mit dem Zug nach Hause gefahren. 

Ein wunderbarer Tag. 

Yesterday, we took a trip to Sooss.  A very small village.  In the Vienna Woods.  We went by train. 20 minutes from Vienna.  We were met at the station.  Sissi picked us up.   Lunch at a Heuriger.  Very, very good.  Then, coffee and cake at Sissi's.  A very long chat. We took the train home at just after seven.     A wonderful day. 

 

The Bartons   Chapter 21  - A Short Break

Idioms 

To get back to someone means to talk to them later. 

To get the hang of something means to learn how to understand or do something.

To be pushed in at the deep end means to start at a hard/difficult point with no training.

To take with a pinch of salt means not to take things too seriously.

Under the thumb - if you are under the thumb means you are in his/her control.

To jump at the chance - to quickly take the offer/oppurtunity.

+ + + + + + 

Ken and Jean are enjoying a nice cup of tea.  Dave has gone out.

I bumped into Andy in the village this morning, and you'll never guess what he told me!

He told you he was taking Sarah to Spain for a long weekend. 

How did you know, Jean?  Andy told me to keep it under my hat. It was a secret.

So much for Andy's secrets.  Sarah phoned me about an hour ago.  She told me all about Andy's big secret.  And, furthermore, she asked me if we'd like to join them. 

Andy asked me the same.  I said I would talk to you and get back to him.

No need, Ken.  I've already decided. I said we'd love to go.

Well, Jean, you could have asked me. But, nevertheless, you did the right thing.  A few days away would be great.  And, who's going to look after the farm while we're gone?

Dave and Jane, of course.  I think it's high time Jane got a taste of real farm life and all the work that goes with it. 

Well, it'll be a bit like being pushed in at the deep end.  But, I'm sure Jane will soon get the hang of misting out pigsties and milking the cows.  I'm certain she'll take to it all like a duck takes to water.

And, I'M sure the pigs and cows will quickly take to Jane, too.  

You're right, Ken.  Jane does seem to have a special way with animals.

And, she has a very special way with men, too.

Don't be horrible, Ken.

You should learn to take what I say with a pinch of salt, Jean.  But, while we're talking about Jane,  baking doesn't seem to be one of her strong points.  Maybe you could teach her how to bake a cherry cake before we go, Jean. 

No time, Ken.  We're leaving at first light tomorrow. 

So soon, Jean.  Andy never told me that.  And, Jean, next time, please ask me what I think of the whole thing!

No need, Ken, you always agree with everything I want.  I've got you well trained.

More like under the thumb.  And, what about Jane?

All taken care of.   Everything's arranged.  Jane'll be here in about an hour. She jumped at the chance of being a weekend farmer's wife.

So, is there anything else left for me to do?

Yes, Ken. sit down and have a slice of cherry cake.

Questions. Can women keep secrets?  Was Ken surprised that Jean knew about Spain?  How is Jane going to get a taste of farm life?  Does Jane need baking lessons?   Is Ken under Jean's thumb?  What chance did Jane jump at?  What is left for Ken to do?

Sunday the 31st of May, 2026

Welcome back to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck and have fun.

Gregor würde gerne in der Zukunft leben.   

Neue Möglichkeiten.  

Reisen zu den Sternen.  

Kreuzfahrten durch die Milchstraße.  

Ein Urlaub auf dem Mars.  

Perfekt für Gregors Frau und ihre Mutter.  

Drei Jahre hin und zurück.  

Und Gregors Frau?  

Eine sehr gute Idee. 

Sie würde jünger werden, nicht älter.  

Einsteins Relativitätstheorie.  

Armer Gregor.  

Zeitreisen, eine Sache der Zukunft.

Gregor would like to live in the future.   New possibilities.  Trips to the stars.  Milky Way cruises.  A holiday on Mars.  Perfect for Gregor's wife and her mother.  3 years there and back.  And, Gregor's wife?  A very good idea. She would get younger, not older.  Einstein's theory of relativity.  Poor Grgor.  Time travel's a thing of the future.

Monday the 25th of May, 2025

 

The Train from Vienna to Györ

Welcome to English Warmups. Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions. Good luck and have fun.

Letzten Freitag war ein wunderbarer Tag. 

Ich bin mit dem Zug nach Ungarn gefahren. 

Von Wien nach Győr mit der ÖBB. 

Von Győr nach Veszprém mit einem ungarischen Zug. 

Ein sehr langsamer Zug. 

Eine wunderbare Reise. 

Durch das Bakony-Gebirge. 

Zwei Stunden lang herrliche Landschaft. 

Wälder und Bäche. 

Kleine Dörfer. 

Der kleine Zug nach Veszprém. 

Eine wunderbare Art zu reisen.

Last Friday was a wonderful day.  I took the train down to Hungary.  Vienna to Gyor with the OBB. From Gyor to Veszprem with a Hungarian train.  A very slow train.  A wonderul journey.  Through the Bakony. 2 hours of wonderful scenery. Forests and streams. Small villages. The small train to Veszprem.  A wonderful way of  traavelling.

Thursday the 14th of May, 2026

 

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

Es ist ein kalter, nasser, regnerischer Samstag im Mai. 

Wir sind gerade vom Markt zurückgekommen. 

Dort waren viele Leute. 

Ich wollte Joghurt kaufen. 

Schafsmilchjoghurt. 

Ich habe mich in die Schlange gestellt.

Dann war ich an der Reihe. 

Pech gehabt. 

Der Standbesitzer hatte gerade die letzten beiden Gläser verkauft. 

An den Mann vor uns. 

Nächste Woche wird es anders sein. 

Ich werde früh aufstehen.  

Ich werde vor dem Frühstück hingehen. 

It's a cold wet rainy May Saturday.  We have just come back from the market.   There were many people there.  I wanted to buy some yoghurt.  Sheeps' milk yoghurt.  I queued up.  Then it was my turn.  Bad luck.  The stall holder had just sold the last two jars.  To the man in front of us.  Next week will be different. I will get up early.  I will go before breakfast.  

The Bartons - Chapter 20

Idioms - Look on the bright side - Always see the positive sides of things.  No point in crying over spilled milk - do not worry or be sad about mistakes that have been made.  To be getting in each other's hair - to be in each other's private space.  To broach a subject means to talk about a sensitive subject.

And now, The Bartons, chapter 20: Ken and Jean are having elevenses.  Dave is working in the big field.  He is repairing the fence,

I can't wait for this wedding to be over. All the fuss.  Who's going to pay for this? Who's going to pay for that?  And, always, what will Jane's mother say?  

You're right, Ken.  But, look on the bright side.  Everything passes sooner or later.  Soon, this wedding will be a thing of the past.  Life will be normal again.

What is normal, Jean?  No, no.  Things will never be the same again.

Why not, Ken?   Life will go on as if nothing had happened.  You’ll see.  No point in worrying over things that may never be.

Well, I wonder how well Dave really knows Jane.  And, what does Jane see in Dave?  Do you remember the singing lessons, Jean?   And, do you remember how Jane ditched Dave for a farmer who had more money!  

How could I forget, Ken?  Still, there's no point in crying over spilled milk. Dave and Jane know what they want.

And, I've been giving some thought to where they're going to live. We don't want to be getting in each other's hair, do we?

I haven't thought of that, Ken.

Well, I've been giving it some thought, Jean.  Our old barn.  With a bit of thought and good planning, we could easily convert it into a perfect home. And, thinking ahead, Jean, maybe it would be the perfect solution for our old age, too.

Good thinking, Ken.  I must ask Jane's mother what she thinks.

You will do nothing of the sort, Jean.  We're going to ask Jane and Dave what they think.  They will be living there, not Jane's mother. And, as a matter of fact, Jane and Dave will be joining us for tea this afternoon.  We can broach the subject then.

Well, you seemed to have decided everything yourself, Ken. So, what can I do?

How about a nice cup of tea and a nice slice of cherry cake?

It's on its way.

Questions  - Will life be the same after the wedding?   What is going to change after the wedding?   Do Jane and Dave really know what they're doing?  How can we be sure?   Where can Dave and Jane live?  Will converting the barn be an advantage for Ken and Jean?  How?  Why doesn't Ken want to discuss this plan with Jane's mother?  Is Ken happy with Jane's mother?  What do you think of Jane's mother?

Talk Fritzi number 49.  Please listen, repeat, and have fun.

Es ist ein regnerischer Tag.     It's a wet day.

Es ist kalt.    It's cold.

Es regnet stark.     Much rain.

Ich bin rausgegangen.  I went out.

Zum Markt.   To the market.

Um Joghurt zu kaufen.    For yoghurt.

Schafsmilchjoghurt.    Sheeps' milk yoghurt.

Pech.  Bad luck.

Alles ausverkauft.   All sold out.

Ich werde es noch einmal versuchen.   I will try again.

Nächste Woche.   Next week.

Vor dem Frühstück.  Before breakfast.

It's a wet day.  It's cold.  Much rain.  I went out.  To the market. For yogurt. Sheeps' milk yogurt. Bad luck.  All sold out. I will try again.  Next week.  Before breakfast.