Lesson 16 -- Bob Brings the Cookies to the Village Market Speak English Like an American -- Lesson 16 Bob brings Carol the cookies. He tells Carol that baking the cookies was easy because he had lots of help. Carol: Bob, how did the baking go? Bob: Slow at first, but we are getting the hang of it. Carol: Once you learn the ropes, it becomes second nature. Bob: To tell you the truth, I thought that baking 2,000 cookies would be a pain in the neck. But we managed to round up some helpers, and it was a piece of cake. Carol: Well, thanks for coming in person with the cookies. Bob: No problem. When will you need more? Carol: It depends on how many we sell today. Bob: How many do you think you'll sell? Carol: Maybe 500, maybe 2,000. Your guess is as good as mine. In any case, I'll keep you posted. Bob: Okay, just give me a ring as soon as you know. Idioms, At first – in the beginning (to) get the hang of (something) – to learn how to do something; to acquire an effective technique (to) give (someone) a ring – to telephone someone In any case – whatever the fact is; certainly In person – personally; in one’s physical presence (to) keep posted – to provide up-to-date information (to) learn the ropes – to learn the basics Pain in the neck – an annoyance Piece of cake – very easy (to) round up – to gather people together Second nature – a behavior that has been practiced for so long, it seems to have been there always To tell you the truth – to speak openly; to admit Your guess is as good as mine – I don’t know; I don’t know any more than you do
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