We're all speaking English...right?

Part of the reason London seemed like a good place to settle for a bit is language...I speak English - they speak English. However it's become abundantly clear that we are somehow not always speaking the same English.

I'm not just talking about the Brits lovely slang and colloquialisms. I enjoy a good "bloody brilliant", "poor bloke" and "cheers!" with the rest of 'em. I'm talking about suddenly someone opens their mouth and I'm struck slow still trying to figure out the first word...while they've finished the sentence and are sitting there waiting for a response. Basically you mix a heavy accent with one or two new terms...and I'm gone.

Note: The "smile and nod" technique does not work in these circumstances!

In fairness - they think I (and all Americans) speak ridiculously fast (Yes Mom, you've told me for years). One of the many aspects of life that I'm working to slow down while living in Europe.