Tessie’s Two Cents

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Have a Question About Life’sLittle Problems?

tessiestwocents@gmail.com

Dear Tessie,
I would love to learn another language, but I have such a hard time with it. It’s so hard to understand and catch on in conversations, but that’s also the best way to really learn how it goes! Have you got any tips? I’m embarrassed to ask my friends.
C.W.

Dear C.W.,
I can remember language classes when I was young. I was never very good at them, though I did eventually catch on. I was fortunate that my family members spoke the language I was learning, so I had plenty of opportunity to just be surrounded by it.
Some folks say that you need to try to think in the other language. When you look around and see items, use it for vocabulary. Some folks say to find someone to converse with in that language because it helps you to learn exactly that, the art of conversation.
Now I’ll tell you what my friend’s grandson has been doing. You might find it to be a bit silly, but I do hope you’ll hear me out… have you considered watching cartoons in this language?
Cartoons tend to be simpler conversations and easier concepts, as well as vocabulary. When you think about it, it’s certainly sensible to believe that a program meant to engage and educate children would be a perfect way to learn a language. Give it a try, and do please shoot me a note letting me know if it helped.
Love,
Tessie

Dear Tessie,
I have the absolute hardest time getting out of bed in the mornings. I feel like I’ve tried everything, but I’m just never ready to get up. I hate the way that people make fun of me for the way I’m so groggy when I get up, and I wish I had any idea what to do.
Sincerely,
M. J.

Dear M. J.,
I, too, struggled for many years with being the early bird, getting the worm, not biting the head off of folks who tried to speak to me before my coffee… I love my family dearly and I always have, but my word mornings in our house were nothing short of horrendous. I am extremely grateful to be retired.
Unfortunately, mornings are still a requirement of my life. I’ve tried every trick I’ve ever come across, I think. I will say, a tip that I felt like made a lot of sense and does work for me: keep a full glass of water next to your bed. First thing when you wake up, drink it.
It seems that one of the reasons we might be groggy in the mornings is from dehydration stemming from a long overnight without it. Now, maybe it’s just a mind over matter situation, but I would swear it truly does help me to more willingly get out of bed.
Otherwise, I suggest coffee. And something that brews coffee that you can set to a timer so it will go off without your effort during those morning hours!
Love,
Tessie