Real English Forty-Five: ETA

This morning, a student and I had the following conversation:

Me:  My parents are coming to Japan today?

Student:  Really?!  What time?

Me: Their ETA is 4:25pm at KIX.

Student:  Glenn, I don't understand the meaning of ETA.  What does it mean?

Me:  ETA stands for "estimated time of arrival."

Student:  I see.  Are you gong to pick them up at the airport?

Me: No, I'm not because I have to work. Instead, I arranged for a taxi to pick them up at the airport and take them to my house.

Student:  How much does it cost?

Me: It depends on the route and traffic, but I think about 12,000 yen.

Student:  Plus tip?

Me:  No, including gratuity.

Student:  How long are they staying?

Me: About a month.

Student: A month!?!?

Me:  Yeah. You sound just like my wife!!

Student:  Do you have any plans over New Year's Vacation? Are you going to go anywhere, like a hot springs or something?

Me: As of now, we don't have any big plans. We are just going to take it easy and enjoy the time together.

Student:  Sounds good.  I hope they have a good time!

Me:  Thanks! I hope so too!

Below are beautiful photos of the foliage taken by miss e.  

It's a shame my parents missed the fall leaves because I am sure they would've loved to see these brilliant colors!