Lesson 13 -- Amber Comes Over to Bake Cookies Speak English Like an American -- Lesson 13 Ted's girlfriend Amber comes over to help with the cookies. Amber has experience baking cookies from a former job. Susan leaves the kitchen so they can work better.
Ted: Mom, Amber is here to lend a hand with the cookies. Susan: Hi Amber, nice to see you again. Amber: Good to see you too, Mrs. Johnson. Susan: That's an interesting hairstyle. Amber: Thanks. I'm glad you think it's cool. Blue hair is all the rage this season. Susan: Well, I'm going to take a break now and let you kids take over. Ted: Don't worry, Mom. Your business is in good hands with Amber. She really knows her stuff. Amber: That's true. I used to work at Mrs. Field's Cookies in the mall. Susan: You don't work there any more? Amber: No, I got fired. I have a real sweet tooth, and they told me I was eating too many cookies. Susan: Well, I'm sure you haven't lost your touch. Amber: I might be a bit out of practice. Ted: Mom, you can watch Amber bake if you want. You might pick up a few tricks of the trade. Amber: Yes, feel free. As a singer, I'm used to performing before an audience. Susan: Thanks, but I'm going to get out of the way. You know what they say: too many cooks spoil the broth. Amber: Will I see you later tonight? Susan: Yes, I'll be back in a few hours. Ted: Mom, why don't you just call it a night and go to bed? You've been working your tail off all day.
Idioms, All the rage – the latest fashion; popular right now (to) call it a night – to stop an activity for the rest of the night Feel free – go ahead and do something ; don’t hesitate (to do something) (to) get out of the way – to move out of the way; to stop interfering with someone’s plans or activities (to be) in good hands – in good, competent care (to) know one’s stuff – to have an expertise in a field (to) lend a hand – to help (to)lose one’s touch – to no longer be able to do something well (to be) out of practice – no longer good at doing something (to) pick up – to acquire ; to learn Sweet tooth – an enjoyment of sugary foods (to) take a break – to stop and rest from an activity (to) take over – to assume control Too many cooks spoil the broth – too many people involved in an activity can ruin it Tricks of the trade – clever shortcuts gained by experience (to) work one’s tail off (slang) to work very hard
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