If someone tells you they have a lot on their plate, they aren't saying that an actual plate is piled with food. Ruby, Charles and Kate are feeling a bit guilty because they are so busy, they haven't been in touch with their friends or family.
Ruby: Hi, Jenny. It’s Ruby. How are you? I’m so sorry I haven't been in touch since we met for dinner last month, but I’ve had a lot on my plate. I’ve been working long hours with this new job at the bank. I told you I’d got a promotion? Well, it’s been hard settling down and getting used to all the new stuff I have to do. And the others in the office haven't helped me at all. They have been very cool and haven't welcomed me or made things easy for me. Last weekend, they went out to celebrate a colleague’s birthday, and didn't invite me. I don't know what I’ve done wrong. I hope things get easier soon. And my mother’s been ill with a bad attack of ‘flu. I’ve had to look after her and she even expected me to go home during lunch break to see she was okay. Anyway, enough of me moaning! Let’s try to arrange another dinner soon.
Charles: Hi, Colin. It’s Charles. I’m really sorry I haven't been in touch for ages. I’ve had a lot on my plate since I moved into the new flat. But things are getting easier now. The move went well, but problems started on the second day. I learned that the removal men hadn’t delivered one of the boxes with some of my work in. Getting them to find out where it was was a nightmare. They finally delivered it after a week. Then I had to chase the company who were supplying the curtains they didn't come to fit them when they said they would, so the first three nights I had to sleep with light streaming into my bedroom window. Then the cat got out of the front door and it took me two days to find him. I think he’d tried to get back to the old flat. I could go on and on. Anyway, when are you free for dinner? I promise not to talk about the new flat all night. Give me a bell and let me know.
Kate: Hi, mum. I’m sorry I’ve not been answering your calls or messages, but I’ve had a lot on my plate these past few weeks. I hope you’ve not been worrying about me. I’m fine, but have been so busy I haven't had time to think! I’ve been in charge of organising the open day at work, and getting everything into place hasn’t been easy. We invited at least twenty other small firms who work with us to contribute to the open day. We do a lot of work in the community, and the open day each year is to show everyone what a responsible company we are and how environmentally friendly our products are. Anyway, after all my hard work, the open day was great success. We had almost a thousand visitors. But I am so pleased it’s over and it went well. The bosses were very happy with everything I had done. Now, I will have time to come and see you and Dad. Would one night next week be okay?