First two days on the Islands

Arrived 7am on Saturday (Island time) and was taken to my house which is exactly as it looks in the picture. Had the morning to unpack then was taken on the grand tour of the capital Stanley. Its quaint and pretty and you can see some good pictures of it via google. Saw my offices and main buildings and shops (will post some pics soon that you won't see on google images). Went to Shorty's Diner for tea - my kind of place - cosy atmosphere - a sort of high class greasy spoon - had a superb steak sandwich and chocolate orange cheesecake! Had an early night ready for Sunday.

Was collected from my house by three kind people who decided to take me out for the day. We drove about half an hour on road and over an hour off road to get to Whalebone Cove (so called because it has old bones from when some whales beached their years ago). It is also the home for elephant seals and two species of penguins. (see pics below)

The story that penguins fall over backwards when planes fly low over them is definately false. We were treated to a personal flyby by a Typhoon who spotted us, banked steeply and then did a low pass over us so we could wave! A very impressive aircraft.

T minus 12

Now finished at the guardian of public funds and have 7 days to sort myself out before flying South for the winter! I had a great goodbye in London and the English Riviera - so thanks all. In preparation for my new job I have met the UK AG, a man with 'nuclear' and 'missiles' in his job title, and seen close up evidence of just how big the 'big society' can be in an Indian restaurant! (poppadoms with Pickles).

I have started sorting out my suitcases - oh joy! I do have a house ready to go to and I have a car - pictures below.

I have seen my draft induction program including receptions, lunches, tours, dinners and meets and greets.So the first week or so is looking sorted! More on my first days in the next instalement.