When you work as a linguist, it is important to do fieldwork. This means going to places to hear people speak. In Puno, I do actual “field” work. I herd sheep and alpacas. I plant and harvest crops. I work with the people I am studying. This way, I can listen to their words.

I also interview people. I ask them to say things into my recorder. Later, I study these recordings to understand how the people are speaking.

People tell me about their lives. This helps me to get to know them.

The people here look for ways to celebrate life. I am invited to a play. This is another chance for me to listen to their languages.

As always, I listen closely. I had hoped to hear a new language, but I do not. That’s okay. I learned about how the people in Puno live. I also learned about their wonderful words.