Happy New Year 2016!

Happy New Year!! Hi Students, I am writing to wish you all a wonderfully successful 2016! I am excited to continue to support you in your English language learning journey in 2016. I recorded a short audio message for you. In the audio message, I read the Aesop Fable “The Tortoise & the Hare”. The […] Read more »

Podcast Episode 57 – Junie B. Jones

Reading easy chapter books is a great way to improve your understanding of everyday English and learn a lot about American culture. In this episode, I introduce you to one of the feistiest American kindergartners – Junie B. Jones.     Junie B. Jones is the main character in the series of books of the […] Read more »

Podcast Episode 50 – Goals or no goals?

It’s that time of year again – time to make your New Year’s Resolutions and set some goals for the new year – or is it? In this episode, I talk about the pros and cons of making New Year’s Resolutions and setting goals. I talk a little about both sides of the debate: how you can […] Read more »

Black Friday Shopping Frenzy Spreads to UK

Here in the U.S., the Friday after Thanksgiving is always known as Black Friday, and it is a day for SHOPPING. Historically, shoppers have lined up the night before, waiting outside stores to be the first ones to get in and get the deals (a deal is something that is on sale). (If you want […] Read more »

Veterans Day 2014

Today we celebrate the holiday known as Veterans Day. Last year, I did a podcast about Veterans Day. To learn about the history of this holiday and how it is celebrated, click here. A veteran is a person who has served in the armed forces (e.g. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and others). Veterans Day is […] Read more »

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween! October 31 Halloween is celebrated throughout the United States. What happens on Halloween? Here are some facts about Halloween, as it is practiced today: 1. Kids enjoy dressing up in costumes. 2. Some adults also enjoy dressing up, too. 3. Some schools and work places allow their students and employees to come to […] Read more »

Valentine’s Day Poem

I Love You More Than Applesauce By Jack Prelutsky I love you more than applesauce, Than peaches and a plum, Than chocolate hearts, And cherry tarts, And berry bubble-gum. I love you more than lemonade, And seven-layer cake, Than lollipops, And candy drops, And thick vanilla shakes. I love you more than marzipan, Than marmalade on […] Read more »

Pumpkin Pie – The Classic Thanksgiving Dessert

Next Thursday, November 28th, people across the United States will celebrate Thanksgiving. (To learn more about Thanksgiving, listen to podcast #10.) One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving is PUMPKIN PIE. It is the most commonly made dessert and many people love it. I like to have it with fresh whipped cream and/or vanilla ice […] Read more »