Erica has wanted to be a travel writer since college and now as a mom of two, she's finally pursuing that dream. She takes pride in researching the best trip information and test driving the recommendations you'll find on this site. When she's not immersed in travel research you can find her with her kids or attempting to learn tennis (advice accepted!).
Barista: Hey! What can I get for you? Customer: Hi, can I have a medium latte, oat milk, to go? Barista: Sure. Anything else? Customer: That’s it, thanks. Barista: That’ll be $4.75. [Customer taps card] Barista: Alright, we’ll have that right out. Name? Customer: Jess. Barista: Thanks, Jess. Dialogue 2 – Running into a neighbor: A: Hey, long time no see! How’s it going? B: Hey! Yeah, been swamped with work. You? A: Same old, same old. Hey, did you see they’re finally fixing the elevator? B: Oh, finally! About time. Anyway, gotta run—catch you later! A: Yeah, take care. B. Small Talk (The Social Glue) Small talk is low-stakes, usually about neutral topics: weather, commuting, weekend plans, food.