Our catch phrase is on its way.

Dear Fellow Earthlings,

(This blog was compiled in the Falklands on 6 August 2013 local time.)

I was able to sit with Lorraine after breakfast and have her act as a native speaker informant as I had her say various jingles. By the time we had finished, it was time for lunch. After lunch Rob also served as an informant. In the process of working with them, I learned many things about Falkland Islands English. The most important one is that the “locals” generally do not like to hear themselves referred to as Kelpers. Therefore, I have ceased using that term as of today. This afternoon Rob drove me over to the north side of Carcass Island. I saw huge numbers of birds, Including many of the species I had seen yesterday. But in addition, I also saw Magellanic oystercatchers, turkey vultures, teals, ruddy head geese, and Falklands flightless steamer ducks. I was also able to get up close to elephant seals. They have such huge eyes! One part of the island, called Rocky Ridge – as its name implies – rises well above its surrounding terrain. I enjoyed going up near the top of the ridge where striated caracaras performed aerial acrobatics for me, played tag with the speedy dog Sydney, and made occasional swoops down toward me. What a wonderful end to a wonderful day! After dinner I enjoyed talking about many things with Rob and Lorraine. I could see the Southern Cross from the window of my room tonight.

Steve Walker

Earthsaver and Jingles Creator

© 2013 Steve Walker, The Jingles-The Japan Foundation for English Pronunciation, Summit Enterprises.