For those reading this blog for the first time, please read the first entry called ‘An ill wind‘ which sets the context for an adventure I had as a 24 year old in 1988. I am taking the time to digitise my journal from 1988 in the Falkland Islands and am remaining faithful to my original text – this post ‘Marking time’ is a particularly drab entry, recording what was a rather boring few days. My apologies.
Sunday 22 May 1988, Port Stanley, Emma’s Guest House
The KSJ dinner/buffet was a complete success for me.
Squid and tuna sushi, cold beef, rice, squid, chicken and free drinks – it was brilliant.
Today was a lovely day although we had a couple of rain showers. Jim and Pete L and I went went to Penguin Walk and the lighthouse. I took loads of slides of penguins etc. I was happy, as I listened to ‘Smells of Summer’ on my Walkman. Sometimes this place can be such a joy – getting away from pressures. But it doesn’t last. The loneliness and tedium get get to one eventually. I want to go home so badly, to see Deb and my family. I will never be the same after this experience. I’m sure they will see a certain change in me. I feel so remote.
Monday 23 May 1988, Port Stanley, Emma’s Guest House
I spent most of the day pretending (once again) to work at FIPASS. Not much has really happened. I felt really good having had an early and sensible night last night, but disgusted that I smoked again today. Got a letter from Pat and Roy – quite why I got it today I don’t know.
Pete and Steve left for volunteer point, in this weather I didn’t envy them. Roll on Summer time.
Went to have a meal at John’s (John and Alison went out) with Jim and Sean. Later Anna came round and we watched ‘La Bamba’ on video. Shitty film but with good music.
Tuesday 24 May 1988, Port Stanley, Emma’s Guest House
Worked again on my drawings.
The Koei Maru 30 came in. I saw the crew and all they could say was “girls, girls – jiggy-jiggy” it is very sad and depressing. I went into the galley to say hello to Nananuma. It was awful, like rekindling the flames of awful memories. Quite terrible.
In the evening Drin, Jim, Phil, Liz and I went to Monty’s and for some reason I ended up paying for the lot. We then went to the Goose and I got pretty merry. Ended up writing a drunken letter to Deb.
Wednesday 25 May 1988, Port Stanley, Emma’s Guest House
Today I have a lot of work to do. I must also buy supplies, since I expect to leave for Montevideo tomorrow.
Lost at cards. Phil won and is the champion.
Phoned Deb – it was great. She was in Edinburgh with her granny. She is revising for her exams on Wednesday.
Melanie was at the Cable & Wireless office – she is so sweet and I think it is fitting that when I telephone Deb, she is there.
I don’t want to go to sea, despite the fact that Jim is able to come. Went to the fish and chip shop with Phil and then the Globe – became a little merry. Power cut at midnight.
Natural adventures 