Dear Mom,

　　Can you imagine that I’m now in the United States, a country so different from China? Everything is new and interesting! I made some friends on the trip over and they have been very kind and helpful. Still, you know how much I miss you and your cooking? My mouth waters at the mere thought of those delectable Chinese dishes you prepare. Last night, my friends invited me to dinner. They had some strange ways of describing their hunger. For instance, there was“I’m starving to death”,“I’m famished”, and“I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse”, which has a similar expression in Chinese; I’m sure you know the one. How about“I’m making a pig of myself”! A little confusing, hmm? Anyway, this stuff may be useful to youas an English teacher, so I’m also sending a tape. You can listen to our conversation and hear some real modern American English.

　　Your loving daughter,Sandra

　　When eating out, Westerners usuallysgroupstheir meals individually. They don’tsgroupsdishes that will be shared. Most restaurants offer complete meals for a set price, and many peoplesgroupsthem. A set meal includes meat, potatoes, vegetables, and sometimes bread, dessert, and a drink.