Chapter 37

The Farm at Lane's End is the story of English country life.  Farmer Ken, his wife Jean, and their son Dave.  In chapter 37, Dave and Claire are trying to decide what Dave should buy for his mother for her birthtday.

Vocabulary

need - You need something you really must have.

Want - You want something you would like to have, but, it isn't so important.

The thought that counts - This means the thinking  of someone is worth more than the present, 

Over the moon, Someone who is over the moon is very, very happy about something.

Words you might like to check - mum's the word -

Marmalade is an English word for orange flavoured jam

+ + + + + + ++ + 

And, now to our story, The Farm at Lane's End, chapter 37

I say, Claire, what can I give my mum for her birthday?  what can one give someone who's  already got everything they need?

That's a very good question, Dave.  I wish I knew. There must be something your mum needs.

Needing and wanting are two different things, Claire.

OK, so let's concentrate on something your mum would like, not on something she needs.

How about a new frying pan, Dave?

Definately not a good idea, Claire.  Last year, Dad gave mum a frying pan.  She nearly killed him with it.  

I can fully understand her, Dave.

Claire, What did you get your mum last year?

Let me think for a second or two, Dave.  I know, I can remember.  Last year, my dad and I gave mum a present between us.  It wasn't so expensive, but, it's the thought that counts.

Was she happy with it, Claire?

She was over the moon!   I couldn't belive it. 

If I tell you Dave, promise to keep it a secret. Mum's the word!

I promise, Claire.  Come on, spill the beans.

OK, You promise not tell?

I promise!

We gave mum a jar of marmalade.  And, it wasn't even expensive.  Dad bought it at the Church Christmas bazaar.

A great idea, Claire.  I'll get my mum a jar of marmalade as well.

And, Dave you don't even need to buy one. I have a jar in my cupboard. You csn take it with you when you go.

Thanks, Claire.

Questions -

Why can't Dave Decide what to give his mum for her birthday?

Would you give your wife a frying pan for her birthday?

How do you unerstand the word want?

Please put the  the word "need" in a sentences.

When would you use "spill the beans"?

Please put "mums the word"  in a sentence.

Who did Claire buy her mum's birthday present with?

Where  did Claire's dad buy the marmalade?

What flavour is marmalade?

Would you like a jar of marmalade for your birthday?