Volume II

I. Ducks in a Row 🦆

Two theories are swimming around on this one. Some say it comes from 1800s bowling, where early pin-setters lined up wooden pins—called “ducks”—before each roll. Others point to actual ducks, waddling in single file behind their mother, painting the perfect picture of order. Doesn’t matter if you’re knocking down pins or lining up plans, having your ducks in a row means you’re running a well-oiled machine.

II. Soup to Nuts 🥜

Back in the late 19th century, fancy American dinners were a full-course affair, starting with soup and wrapping up with nuts (often served as dessert or a digestif— though walnuts don't exactly scream dessert to me, I respect the tradition). Over time, the phrase left the dining room and hit mainstream lingo, meaning start to finish, beginning to end. Whether you’re talking about a meal, a business plan, or a wild story, if it covers everything, it’s soup to nuts. Maybe miso to macadamia or broth to brittle will catch on next.

III. Tougher than a $2 steak 🥩

Coined by legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross, a two-dollar steak isn’t a prime rib—it’s overcooked, chewy, and takes some serious fight to get through. Naturally, the phrase drew comparisons to someone who’s been through the wringer and came out stronger. Maybe it's a scrappy underdog, a relentless competitor, or just your grandma who refuses to take a day off. If they can take a beating and keep going, they’re tougher than a $2 steak.

We’re growing like weeds, don’t be afraid to forward to a friend.