English Warmups soon

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.

Saturday the 9th of May, 2026

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

Heute ist Samstag. 

Es ist Wochenende. 

Zeit für Spaß und Entspannung. 

Viele Menschen treiben gerne Sport. 

Fritzi spielt gerne Fußball. 

Auch Reiten ist beliebt. 

Golf ist etwas für Leute mit Geld. 

Angeln ist etwas für sehr arme Leute. 

Wandern ist anstrengend. 

Viele Menschen müssen am Wochenende arbeiten. 

Gregors Frau arbeitet jedes Wochenende. 

In einem indischen Restaurant. 

Sie ist Tellerwäscherin. 

Armer Gregor. 

Jedes Wochenende allein zu Hause.

It's Saturday, today.  It's weekend.  Time for fun and relaxing.  Many people enjoy sports.  Fritzi likes playing football.  Horse riding is popular, too.  Golf is for people with money.  Fishing is for very poor people.  Hiking's hard work.  Many people must work at weekends.  Gregor's wife works every weekend.  At an Indian restaurant.  Washing dishes. Poor Gregor. Alone at home every weekend.

The Bartons will be back on Wednesday the 13th of Mai, 2026.

A Church with an Underground Secret!

Saturday the 2nd of May, 2026

Welcome to English Warmups.  Simply translate into English. Scroll down for suggested solutions.

Wir haben heute Abend Gäste.

Unsere Freunde aus Oberösterreich.

Sie sind in Wien.

Sie sind im Hilton untergebracht.

Meine Frau hat ein wunderbares Essen vorbereitet.

Etwas ganz Einfaches.

Hühnercremesuppe.

Krabbencocktail.

Ungarische Lammbraten.

Und zum Abschluss einen Obstsalat.

Ich habe den Wein gekauft.

Zweigelt.

Der beste Rotwein der Welt.

Die Engländer glauben,  französischer Wein der beste ist.

Das ist falsch.

Österreichischer Wein ist der beste.We have guests over tonight.

We're having guests over for dinner this evening.   Our friends from Upper Austria.  They’re in Vienna.  They’re staying at the Hilton.    My wife has prepared a wonderful meal.   Something very simple.  Cream of chicken soup.   Crab cocktail.   Hungarian roast lamb.   And to finish, a fruit salad.I bought the wine.   Zweigelt.    The best red wine in the world.    The English believe  French wine is the best.  That’s wrong.    Austrian wine is the best.

 

The Bartons - Chapter 19

The Cold Light of Day.

Vocabulary - Idioms - To bend someone's ear - To ask them to listen to you.  It's going to set me back a lot of money means it's going to cost me a lot of money.  To foot the bill means to pay the bill.  If something takes the bisquit means it's something totally bad (coming 50 minutes late really took the bisquit).

Ken has just come into the kitchen to get a quick cup of coffee.  Jean is baking a cake. 

Ken, can I bend your ear for a minute, please?  We really should talk about how much Dave's wedding's going to set us back.  

I'm sorry, Jean.  Right now, I've really got some important things on my mind.

Somethings more important than your son's wedding!

For example, Jean.  The tractor needs servicing, the milking equipment needs renewing, and, the milking herd isn't getting any younger.  Let's discuss money and Dave's wedding after dinner this evening.  OK?

Well, it's only this, Ken.  I got a letter from Jane's mother this morning.  She said some interesting things.

Go on, Jean. You've made me curious..

In a nutshell, Ken,   because we're very  rich farmers and they're as poor as church mice, we should foot the bill for the entire wedding. 

Well, I can uderstand they are poor.  Vicars hardly earn anything at all. Which is OK.  All they do is pray and bless people and work a couple of hours a week on Sundays. They should be happy to get what they get.

And, that's not all.  Jane's mother wants to do all the planning. Date, time, reception and everything else as well.  And, there's more.  Jane's mother has already decided where the honeymoon's to be.

Oh really!

Jane's father's brother owns a caravan. It's parked on a lonely farm in the far north of Scotland. He's offered it to Dave and Jane for half price.  Of course, Jane will have to do all the cooking and cleaning and everything else. A self catering honeymoon!

Well, that really does take the bisquit, Jean.  You'd better leave it up to me.   I'll soon put the holy duo in their place.

I think you should phone them, Ken.

No.  I have  a better  idea.  We'll invite them round for lunch on Sunday.  It'll give us time to think. Remember, Jean. Always keep a clear head if you can.  I know you don't always find that so easy, Jean.

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

That's what I call keeping a clear head, Jean.

Questions - Why does Jean want to bend Ken's ear?  Has Ken got time to talk to Jean?  What's on Ken's mind?  What did Jane's mother demand in her letter?  Are vicar's really so poor?  Tell us about the plan's Jane's mother has made for the honeymoon?  Why would it be a good idea to involve Jane and Dave in the planning?  

 

Budapest Blues - Written and read by Nigel A. JAMES

Sunday the 26th of April, 2026

 

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

Es ist Sonntagmorgen.  

Es ist kurz nach sieben.  

Ich bin auf dem Heimweg von der Bäckerei.  

Ein toller Ort, um Freunde zu begegnen.  

Auf dem Hinweg habe ich Martin, einen Nachbarn, getroffen.  

Auf dem Rückweg traf ich Thomas, ebenfalls einen Nachbarn.  

Brot kaufen ist ein Ritual am Sonntagmorgen.  

Eine Männeraufgabe.  

Ich sehe selten Frauen beim Bäcker.  

Heute ist ein sehr schöner Tag.  

Männer müssen bei jedem Wetter einkaufen gehen.  

Moderne Sklaverei.  

Es ist schwer, ein Mann zu sein!

It's Sunday morning.  It's just gone seven.  I'm on my way home from the baker's.  A great place for bumping into friends.  I met Martin, a neighbour,  on the way there.  I met Thomas, another neighbour, on the way back.  Buying bread is a Sunday morning ritual.  A man's job.   I rarely see women at the baker's.  It's a very nice day today.  Men must go shopping whatever the weather.  Modern slavery.  It's hard being a man!

The Bartons will be back on Wednesday the 29th of April, 2025

Saturday the 18th of April, 2026

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

Ich hatte eine harte Woche. 

Zu viel Arbeit. 

Ich fange jeden Montag um 8 Uhr an. 

Ich höre um 21 Uhr auf. 

Es ist jeden Tag dasselbe. 

Aber jetzt ist Wochenende. 

Der Samstag ist mein Lieblingstag der Woche. 

Meine Frau geht immer einkaufen. 

Ruhe und Frieden. 

Ganz allein zu Hause. 

Nichts als Stille. 

Kein Radio. 

Kein Fernsehen. 

Keine Menschen. 

Ein wunderbares Gefühl.

I've had a hard week.   Too much work.  I start every Monday at 8.  I finish at 9 in the evening.  It's the same every day.  But, now it's weekend.   Saturday's my favourite day of the week. My wife always goes shopping.   Peace and quiet.  Alone at home.  Nothing but silence.  No radio.  No television. No people.  A wonderful feeling.

 The Bartons  - Chapter 18 - A Rosy Future

Vocabulary  -  Scared stiff   -  If you are scared stiff, you are extremely frightened.  Wenn du vor Angst erstarrt bist  (scared stiff), hast du extreme Angst.    + + + +  If something costs you an arm and a leg means it is very, very expensive.   + + + + +  If you keep someone on  a tight rein means you controll them very closely, especially concerning money.  If something comes in handy means it is useful or practical.   Wenn etwas im Englischen handy ist, bedeutet es, dass es nützlich, praktisch oder griffbereit ist.

Ken and Jean are enjoying a late afternoon cocktail.  

I wonder how Dave is, Jean.  

Well, Ken, we'll soon find out.  Dave's just driven into the yard.  

Hello mum and dad.  I see you're enjoying a drink.  Everything OK?

We're fine, thanks, Dave.  But, most importantly, how are you?  What did Jane say Dave?  Come on, spill the beans.    Did she say yes?

Slow down mum.  Today was the worst day in my life. I'm glad it's almost over.

Oh  no!   What happened. 

I was scared stiff, mum and dad. 

Scared of what, Dave?

I was scared Jane would say yes.

And, what did she say, Dave?

She said yes.  And,  I'm very happy!  Maybe, the happiest man alive.

So, why were you scared, Dave?

I was thinking about the money being married was going to cost me, and, just for a moment, I was scared stiff.

I can understand, Dave.  Marriage is expensive. So far, your mother has cost me an arm and a leg. You will have to be strict with Jane.  Keep her on a tight rein.  Impose strict discipline, and all that kind of stuff.

Don't worry, dad.  I've got a plan.  I'm going to send Jane out to work.  

But, Dave, we live on a farm in the middle of nowhere.  There are no jobs to send Jane to.

There are plenty of jobs nearby, mum.  We've plenty of neighbours.  There are jobs like ironing and washing and cleaning and mucking out pigstys.  Jane will find plenty to do.

Oh Dave, how can you be so heartless.  If you'd have wanted a wife like that you would have had to have looked for a girl like your cousin, and not a vicar's daughter. I'm begining to feel sorry for Jane.  Poor girl.

Don't worry, mum.  I was only joking.  I'm going to work hard and give Jane everything she wants.  And, don't forget, mum and dad, Jane's the vicar's daughter.  A special connection to God.  It may come in handy one day. Who knows?

And, I hope her dad has a good connection to God.  Weddings cost an arm and a leg, and  tradition has it  the bride's family pays all.

I say, Ken, I'm sure we'll think of someway to help.  Bur, right now, lets all have another drink.  Congratulations, Dave.  Here's to a rosy future!

 Questions - What were Ken and Jean doing when Dave came home?  Did Jane say yes or no?   Why was Dave scared?  Is being married expensive?  What was Dave's joke?  Will Dave be a good husband?   Why will Dave be a good husband?  Are weddings expensive?   What might come in handy for Dave?  Where do you think Jane and Ken are going for their honeymoon?

Saturday the 11th of April, 2026

 

Friends on their way to a riding lesson

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

Es ist Samstagmorgen. 

Es ist 11 Uhr. 

Gregor ist gerade aufgestanden. 

Auf dem Küchentisch liegt ein Zettel. 

Seine Frau ist ausgegangen.  

Zum Reitstall.  

Gregors Frau lernt reiten.  

Gregor lächelt.  

Pferde sehen, wohin sie gehen.  

Pferde fahren nie gegen Bäume.  

Das Auto von Gregors Frau ist sehr teuer.  

Es wird ständig repariert.  

Ein Baum nach dem anderen.  

Autos haben keine Augen.  

Armer Gregor. 

Eine Rechnung nach der anderen.

+ + + + + + +

It's Saturday morning.  It's 11 o. clock.  Gregor has just got up.  There's a note on the kitchen table.  His wife has gone out.  To the stables.  Gregor's wife is learning to ride.  Gregor smiles.  Horses can see where they're going.  Horses never crash into trees.  Gregor's wife's car is very expensive.  It's always being repaired.  One tree after another.  Cars haven't got eyes.  Poor Gregor. One bill after another. 

The Bartons will be back next week.  

For Your Listening Pleasure

The true story of Albert Gunter.  A hero.  A bus driver.  A near disaster, and a medal from the Queen.  

Thursday the 2nd of April, 2026

English Warmups  

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

Gregor verbringt ein sehr schönes Osterfest. 

Die Mutter seiner Frau bleibt bis Dienstag. 

Diesmal macht sie überhaupt keine Schwierigkeiten.

So weit, so gut.

  

Gregor liest die Zeitung.

 

Gregor, wo sind deine Frau und ihre Mutter?

  

Sie sind draußen im Garten.

  

Sie suchen Eier.

  

Aber sie sind schon sehr lange weg.

 

Gregor hat die Eier sehr gut versteckt.

  

Plötzlich fällt es Gregor  wieder ein.

 

Er hat vergessen, die Eier zu verstecken.  

Gregor lächelt.

  

Noch etwa eine Stunde lang Ruhe und Frieden.

Arme Gregor.

 Selten ist es ruhig und still.

 

Gregor is having a very nice Easter.  His wife's mother is staying till Tuesday.  This time she's no trouble at all.  So far so good.  Gregor's reading the paper. Gregor, where is your wife and her mother?  They're out in the garden.  They're looking for eggs.  But, they've been gone for a very long time. Gregor's hidden the eggs very well.  All of a sudden, Gregor  remembers.  He has forgotten to hide the eggs.  Gregor smiles.  Peace and quiet for another hour or so.  Poor Gregor.  Seldom peace and quiet.

 

+ + + + + + + + +

The Bartons - Chapter 17

An Afternoon Nap

An afternoon nap is a short sleep in the afternoon. 

To have a word with someone means to discuss something with them.

After all - means considering everything.   Schließlich – das bedeutet, alles zu berücksichtigen.

Second in command - deputy to the boss.

Well then - A way of finishing a discussion -  Na dann – Eine Möglichkeit, ein Gespräch zu beenden

An Afernoon Nap

I say mum, Have you seen dad?

He's got his feet up in the lounge, Dave.  He's having an afternoon nap.

Dad having an afternoon nap!  That's not like him.

Your dad's had a very hard week, Dave.  Sometimes I think he works far too hard. He's no spring lamb anymore.

You're right, mum.  Maybe I could do more. I'll have a word with him when he wakes up.

That's a good idea, Dave.  After all, one of these days this will all be yours.

I know, mum.  

But, you won't be able to run this farm on your own, Dave.  Can you imagine Jane as second in command?

Well, she's better than nothing, mum.

Better than nothing!  She's a wonderful girl.  And, don't forget, her dad's the vicar. 

And, her mum's the vicar's wife.

And, Jane would make a very good mother, Dave.  And, I'm sure she can cook very well.

And, she loves animals. 

Well then, that's all the boxes ticked.  That's decided.   Jane it's to be.  The new number two on the farm. 

I can't wait to tell dad.

He will be surprised.  But there's only one little thing, Dave. I think it's important.  Have you actualy proposed to Jane?

That's a good point, mum.  I'll do it right now.  I'll message her.

Dave!  Get in your car, go round, and get down on one knee.  That's how it's done.

I'm on my way, mum.  

And, when you get back, a nice cup of tea and a nice slice of cherry cake.

Questions - Why is Ken having a nap?  Where is Ken having a nap?  Does Dave understand his father?  What's Dave's idea?  Why would Jane make a nice wife?  Does Jean like Jane?  What is Jane's father?  Does Jane's mother work in a fish and chips shop?  Are vicars important people?  What is a farmer's wife most important job?  Must a farmer's wife be able to cook?  Will Jane say yes?

 

Saturday the 28th of March, 2026

English Warmups.  Simply have fun and translate into English.  Scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck!

Es ist 5 Uhr morgens. 

Es ist noch dunkel. 

Es schneit und ist kalt. 

Warum ist Gregor draußen im Garten? 

Er lernt, Trompete zu spielen. 

Gregor übt zweimal am Tag. 

Einmal morgens. Einmal abends. 

Trompeten sind sehr, sehr laut. 

Gregors Frau ist sehr, sehr streng. 

Kein Lärm im Haus. 

Armer Gregor. 

Verbannt in den Garten. 

Egal bei welchem Wetter.

It's  5 in the morning.  It's still dark. It's snowing and cold.  Why is Gregor out in the garden?  He's learning to play the trumpet.  Gregor practices twice every day.  Once in the morning.  Once in the evening.   Trumpets are very very loud.  Gregor's wife is very very strict.  No noise in the house. Poor Gregor.  Banned to the garden.    Whatever the weather.

The Bartons will be back after Easter.  They are on holiday.

 My name is Nigel A. JAMES. Clemelee is my YouTube channel. 

German and English.  General interest features 

Short stories.  Easy English stories

 for your English. And,

much more as well.

 

>Bitte klicken Sie hier<
>Please click here< 

Mein Name ist Nigel A. JAMES. „Clemelee“ ist mein YouTube-Kanal. 

Deutsch und Englisch. Beiträge zu allgemeinen Themen 

Kurzgeschichten. Geschichten in leichtem Englisch

 zum Englischlernen.  Und,

noch vieles mehr.

Saturday the 21st of March, 2026

 

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

Good luck!

Es ist noch früh am Morgen.  

Wien schläft noch. 

Es wird gerade hell. 

Es ist Morgengrauen. 

Die Vögel singen. 

Der Morgengesang. 

Ich liebe den frühen Morgen. 

Ich kann viel erledigen. 

Niemand ruft mich an. 

Niemand braucht mich. 

Der frühe Morgen ist perfekt. 

Genau richtig zum Schreiben. 

Und auch zum Lesen. 

Der frühe Morgen ist meine Zeit. 

Wann stehst du jeden Morgen auf? 

Wann beginnt dein Tag?

Its still early morning.  Vienna's still sleeping. It's just getting light. It's dawn.  The birds are singing.  The dawn chorus.  I love early mornings.  I can do very much.  Nobody phones me.  Nobody needs me.  Early mornings are perfect.  Just right for writing.  And, for reading as well.  Early mornings are my time.  When do you get up every morning.  what time does your day begin.

 

Sunday the 15th of March, 2026

Arriving in Milan

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

Gregor, wo ist deine Frau?  

Sie ist zu ihrem Kurs gegangen.  

Zur Abendschule.  

Sie lernt Italienisch.  

Warum lernt sie Italienisch?  

Sie liebt es, nach Italien zu fahren.  

Besonders nach Mailand.  

Die Einkaufsmöglichkeiten sind fantastisch. 

Italienisches Design.  

Italienische Schuhe. 

Handgefertigt und teuer.  

Geld ist kein Problem. 

Meine Kreditkarte ist die Kreditkarte meiner Frau. 

Armer Gregor.  

Eine sehr teure Frau.

Gregor, where is your wife?   She's gone to her class.  At night school.  She's learning Italian.  Why is she learning Italian?   She loves going to Italy.  Especially Milan.  The shopping's fantastic.  Italian design.  Italian shoes. Handmade and expensive.  Money's no problem. My credit card is my wife's credit card. Poor Gregor.  A very expesive wife.

 The Bartons will be back next week.

+ + + + + + +

My name is Nigel A. JAMES. 

 Clemelee is my YouTube channel. 

German and English. Articles of general interest, 

short stories, interviews, Easy English 

 to help with your learning, and

much more as well.

 

>Bitte klicken Sie hier<
>Please click here<

Mein Name ist Nigel A. JAMES. 

Clemelee  ist mein YouTube-Kanal. 

Deutsch und Englisch. Artikel von allgemeinem Interesse, 

Kurzgeschichten, Interviews, leicht verständliches Beiträge 

das Ihnen beim Lernen hilft, und vieles mehr

Thursday the 5th of March, 2026

 

English Warmups  

Simply translate into English, then scroll down for suggested solutions.  Good luck and enjoy.

Gregor schläft noch tief und fest.  

Es ist Viertel vor zehn.  

Das Telefon klingelt.  

Es ist seine Frau.  

Sie ist mit ihrer Mutter verreist.  

Sie sagt Gregor, dass sie vor dem Mittagessen wieder zu Hause sein wird.  

Mit ihrer Mutter.  

Sie freuen sich auf das Mittagessen.  

Gregor gerät in Panik.  

Das Haus ist ein Misthaufen.  

Schnell räumt Gregor auf. 

Gregor schaut in den Kühlschrank. 

Ein großer Topf Gulasch. 

Reste vom Mittwoch. 

Sollte noch in Ordnung sein. 

Fünf Tage sind nichts. 

Gregor ist bereit und wartet. 

Erschöpft. 

Armer Gregor. 

Moderne Sklaverei.

Gregor is still fast asleep.  It's a quarter to ten.  The phone rings.  It's his wife.  She's away with her mother.  She tells Gregor she'll be home before lunch.  With her mother.  They're looking forward to lunch.  Gregor panics.  The house is a mess.  Quickly, Greor clears up.  Gregor looks in the fridge.  A big pot of goulash.  Leftovers from Wednesday.  Should still be OK.  5 days is nothing.  Gregor is ready and waiting.  Exhausted.  Poor Gregor.  Modern day slavery.

+ + + + + + + + + + 

The Bartons - Chapter 16

Idioms -   To try your hand at something . .. to attempt something new for the first time.   To get the hang of something - to succeed with something.   To give something a go - to try something.  It's  easy to handle - easy to use / very straightforward. Things on one's mind - things one is thinking about or occupied with.  To run to something - to be able to afford something.  Over the moon - very happy.

Redewendungen –   To try one's hand at something - Sich an etwas versuchen – etwas Neues zum ersten Mal ausprobieren.   To get the hang ..  Den Dreh raus haben – etwas erfolgreich machen.   To try something new -Etwas ausprobieren – etwas versuchen.  Easy to handle - Es ist  leicht zu handhaben – einfach zu bedienen / sehr unkomplizier.t.    Things on one`s mind - Dinge, die einem durch den Kopf gehen – Dinge, über die man nachdenkt oder mit denen man beschäftigt ist.  To run to something - Sich etwas leisten können – in der Lage sein, sich etwas zu kaufen.  Over the moon - Überglücklich sein – sehr glücklich sein.

The Bartons - Chapter 16 - The New Tractor

I say Dave, Do you fancy trying your hand at driving the new tractor?  I'm sure, you'll quickly get the hang of it.

A great idea, Dad.  I`ll give it a go after lunch.

You'll find it very easy to handle, Dave,  It's very easy to handle. In fact, I might even let mum have a try.

Be careful, Dad.  She'll probably drive it straight into the river.  And, we dont want that, do we?

I see your point, Dave. And, in any case, I don't suppose mum`s the slightest bit interested in tractors. She's got other things on her mind.

That's right, dad.  I wonder how's she's getting on at the photo club.

She's really doing well, Dave.  In fact, some of her pictures are really quite amazing.  She showed me some last night, And, the interesting thing is, they're all black and white.

Mum has a very good eye, dad.  I remeber seeing the pictures she took on holiday last year. All black and white. All very interesting.

I remeber them, too.  And, just imagine, Dave. She shot them all with her mobile.   Amazing what one can do with mobiles these days. 

You're right dad.   But, don't forget, mum's very talented.

I see what you're saying saying, Dave. And, that's just given me an idea.  It's mum's birthday soon.  I'm sure I could run to a very good camera. What do you say, Dave?

She'd be over the moon, dad.  But, ask her before you buy one. You don't want to be getting the wrong one, do you?

Very true, Dave.  I'll talk to her later.    But now, it's time for elevenses.  

A good idea, dad. A nice cup of coffee and a nice slice of cherry cake.

Questions - What is Dave going to try his hand at?   Will Dave quickly get the hang of driving the new tractor?  Why shouldn't Jean try driving the new tractor.  What is Jean's hobby?   Has Jean got a very expensive camera?  Are Jean's pictures back and white or colour?  What is Ken thinking of giving Jean for her birthday?  Can Ken run to a good camera for Jean?  Will Jean be over the moon with a new camera?  Why is it important to ask Jean what kind of camera she wants?  What's for elevenses?

+ + + + + + + + + + +

My name is Nigel A. JAMES. 

 Clemelee is my YouTube channel. 

German and English. Articles of general interest, 

short stories, interviews, Easy English 

 to help with your learning, and

much more as well.

 

>Bitte klicken Sie hier<
>Please click here<

Mein Name ist Nigel A. JAMES. 

Clemelee  ist mein YouTube-Kanal. 

Deutsch und Englisch. Artikel von allgemeinem Interesse, 

Kurzgeschichten, Interviews, leicht verständliches Beiträge 

das Ihnen beim Lernen hilft, und vieles mehr.