First, let me just say that yes, I'm still having trouble with the Australian accent...especially over the phone. Combine that with people talking their normal speed (i.e. too fast) and sometimes I have a hard time figuring out what people are saying to me over the phone.
Last night, Phil and I decided to go over to the home of a couple from the church we've been attending who hosts a small group every Tuesday night for Bible study. I wasn't sure of the time, so I called Judy to ask her when it starts. I thought to myself (rather proudly) that I remembered reading a book on Australian culture before we arrived that said to always offer to bring something when invited over to someone's house here. So I asked, "Can we bring anything?" Judy responded, "Just a bottle."
Now...still thinking to myself as I dialed Phil to let him know the time, "Does she mean a bottle of wine? Are we supposed to bring one every Tuesday night?"
After I relayed the conversation to Phil in all seriousness on my part, I was met with silence over the phone on his part. And then Phil said (with what I sense was a bit of mirth on his part), "Ya think she might've said to bring a Bible to Bible study?" Oh. Yeah. That would make more sense, I thought sheepishly, as I replayed the conversation in my mind. But I swear it sounded like bottle with that accent. English, indeed.
What a Long, Strange Year It's Been
4 years ago
1 comment:
It was wine, wasn't it? Isn't it manners everywhere to offer to contribute in some small way to the hospitality on hand? & wouldn't you already be bringing your bible to a bible study? Remember, we are the land of the BYO, no need to clarify that its a bottle you are to bring. Glad you enjoyed The Gumnut. Lovely, isn't it.
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