The context of the following conversation is Jan started to ring the dinner bell. They were alerting people that it was time to eat.:
Jan says I had to ring the bell so everyone knew dinner was done.
The friend responds oh that's how you inform them when foods ready ?.
Jan responds yea i usually just ring the bell a few times.
The friend responds oh so people then know it's dinner time.
Jan responds yes.
The friend responds that's a great idea you have there..