Melbourne - HOME!!!

I made it!! I apologise for my tardiness in this final post. If anyone was worried my boat sank (it didn't) or I had run off the road (I didn't) I'm sorry for making you fret. I somehow think that may just be me and my overinflated sense of importance though.
My final two days in Melbourne were spent on the couch feeling awful (Monday) and final organisation and goodbyes (Tuesday). Strangely enough, the most scary moment of my trip came about on Tuesday evening, lined up on the pier, waiting to board. I had about an hours wait between security and getting out of my car and I was terrified!! I have been on the boat before- this trip made crossing number five, but this was the first time I had done it a) solo, b) on wheels and c) as the driver. Those things combined, made it a really scary experience. I hadn't even thought it might be an issue until I got there and my heart was racing and I could me myself wanting to be anywhere but on that pier... I had been looking forward to it- it wasn't meant to be scary!

I eventually settled down and was guided into a prime parking spot beside the lift. The staff were very helpful and got me out a ramp to get into the lift.
While I was waiting to board, I had noticed a couple of horse trucks also waiting. Being the sticky beak I am, I had a look to see if I knew anyone. As it happened, I did, so I sent Jo, an ex-jockey from Tassie, a text and we met up on board. One of the horses she was carting had a few nerves too and had had to be reloaded on the pier.Good to see I wasn't the only one feeling a bit anxious...
After my shakey start, the boat trip actually went pretty smoothly. The only one hic-cup I had was when I went to leave the boat. When I had got on, the staff had all been very helpful directing me and helping me up the steps. When I went to leave however, there was no one to be seen! Good thing I can get down steps by myself, or I think I would have been heading back to the reception desk.
It has become a bit of a family tradition with us to stop off at Uncle Graeme's (Mum's youngest brother) when we get off the boat in Devonport, so I had a family breakfast with them before the final leg of my journey. It is amazing how travel can make you appreciate the beauty of your own back yard. I found myself taking in the countryside in a whole new light.

Since arriving home, there have been several things have noticed about Tasmania. For instance, I had never really appreciated Tasmania's sped limits. Our three major highways are all 110km/h. Mostly just two lanes, with the occasional overtaking lane, and no lane divider up the centre. Yet we have very few head on collisions. Maybe its because we have less traffic. Speaking of traffic, in Launceston, peak hour last 15 minutes and two blocks!!! These are wonderful little treasures we tend to underestimate when we experience them everyday. At this point, I would like you to look up Hometown, by Carrie Underwood. It always reminds me just how lucky I am to belong to such an amazing small town community.

Not long after I arrived home, I lost a good friend. I had been going to visit him and his wife on the way back from the boat and had put it off because I was tired. I missed my chance. If you take nothing else from this post, take this. Don't put off spending time with your loved ones because you never know when they may be taken away from you, when it will be too late. I discovered Zac Brown Band while I was away and their song Who Knows was one I listened to a lot over those first few weeks.

The last two months since I arrived home have seen some exciting things happen. After my scholarship application experience in Birdsville, I was much more organised with I got to the next lot. I was very excited to get interviews for all three of the scholarships I applied for, which I will be attending later this week, so wish me luck!

I have also been riding in a western saddle after Kristy (in Tawoomba) got me thinking. I went for a ride up the bush with Ellie, Keygan and Hayden a few weeks ago. Everything was going great until we were riding through the lake and  Ellie tried to splash me with her horse, right when I went to trot out of the water. Shamrock, my horse has a very sensitive go button, so when he thought we were racing, he went to take off!! Fortunately Ellie worked out what was going on pretty quick and jumped off her horse (still in the lake) to grab me so I wouldn't fall off. By this stage I had stopped Shamrock, but I still needed her to hold him while I pulled myself back up on top from down his shoulder. All in all it was an exhilarating ride and we all made it home in one piece. Since then I have borrowed a barrel racing saddle, with a much deeper seat, from a friend and I have found that even better. I was even able to canter Shamrock around the paddock at home, something I haven't been able to do since my accident. The first time he cantered I was pulling him back to a walk straight away, then I realised that I hadn't moved or slipped in the saddle like I usually do! So I am now in the process of buying a new saddle, which is very exciting! I haven't got a horse to go under it yet though. So if anyone knows of a quiet, sound, cheap horse that might suit me, please let me know!!

I would like to thank everyone who voted for and shared the documentary Owen Elliot made about me. We didn't win, but it was one of a select few showed on the silver screen at Fox Studios at the presentations, and was very well received. It is also part of Focus On Ability Film Festival airing on Aurora (Foxtel 183) at 7pm tonight (2/12/12). Personally, looking at the videos that did win various categories I think the judges may have been looking for subjects with intellectual disabilities. I don't know if I'm allowed to say that, if its politically correct, but that was how it appeared to me.

I have one final song to leave you with, Scotty McCreery's Dirty Dishes. Great song about seeing the good in the bad. 

My one other piece of news if my mare foaled and we have now a gorgeous little filly, Missy. She is doing very well, though still deciding if she wants to be a racehorse or a bronc! She s very friendly though!

Well, I guess that's it for me for now. Thank you all for your support and encouragement over this journey. It was so good to know I had friends behind me all the way. This adventure may be over, but its only one chapter in a pretty kick arse book.

Just imagine the places these boots won't walk..

Distance travelled: 90km
Time travelled: 1 hour

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 12, 480km!!!!     (plus another 2000 or so to Birdsville)

Melbourne (Sunday)

Well to be honest, this morning wasn't very productive. I slept in, and laid around on the couch. This afternoon, I went and met Ellie in the city. I thought she was catching the train into Flinders Street, but her train only went to Station street. Then they kicked her off the train onto a bus anyway. So she ended up catching a train to meet me anyway.
We had an hour so before we had to go to the airport, so I took her round to the Lindt Cafe. We got a mix off the menu to share, but of course we couldn't finish it, could we. If you haven't been, (or even if you have) I highly recomend it- Collins Street.
After I dropped Ellie off, I headed to Leanne's (otherwise know as Dori). Dori is one of my teammates from the Dandenong Rangers, and she was also part of the Gliders team who won silver in London.

Charlie dog

We have spent the evening catching up. She's made me feel suitably silly about burning my feet again. And I've had lots of cuddles from Charlie, her dog. Now watching Mrs Browns Boys for a giggle before bed...

Melboure (Saturday)

I was amazed last night, just how good it felt to be in Melbourne. I was so sick of Melbourne when I left, so happy to get away from the city, but driving into the city yesterday, it almost felt like home. It was so good to drive familiar roads, to not have to be constantly checking the map to see where I have to go. And I suddenly had a new appreciation for how pretty the city is at night..
Today Des and I went to Caulfield to the races. I though we had decided to go to Pakenham, so I was a bit confused when he started driving off into the suburbs. At least I had put on a nice top, or i would have been a bit under dressed. I had a great day, catching up with people I hadn't seen for a few months.
I did a talk last year to the first year apprentice jockeys about being an elite athlete, and looking after your body. One of the kids I spoke to then, Jake, was riding yesterday. It was good to know that he remembered me and my talk, and that I had made some kind of impact. Jake's a great kid. The first time I met him, I thought he was carrying his dad's gear- he only looks like he is twelve... I had to google him before I believed Des he was a rider!
Walter McShane is a trainer from Tassie who has had a couple of runners in Melbourne over the last few months. He had a runner in yesterday again, so it was good to see him again.
After the last race, Des introduced me to another couple of people on the way out, one of which was Peter The Trainer. After we left the races, I found out Peter The Trainer, was Peter Moody!! Blasted Des!! I had only been thinking half an our before that of all the people Des has introduced me too, Peter Moody wasn't one of them. Then when I did, I completely missed the opportunity to pick his brain!! Devastated!
Des introduced me to another trainer earlier in the day with the line, 'between him and Bart Cummings, they have won thirteen Melbourne Cups. (For those of you who missed that, Bart Cummings has won thirteen Melbourne Cups by himself). I did pick up on that one..
After the races we went to see friend of Des's, then we went and met up with Walter and some of his family at Zagame's, which was really good.
Again, I was impressed with how pretty the city is.....
Well, that's it for me today...

Bendigo- Melbourne

I had a great night catching up with Ellie and Adam, and even managed an almost early night. It was a bit miserable this morning, trying to rain. We packed up, since they were changing carvan parks, and headed down the road to their new 'home'. After a while I had to leave, so I said goodbye and hit the road again.
The road between Bendigo and Melbourne must have hundreds of thousands of dollars of fencing along the road. The idea is to stop the wildlife getting on the road, and in the way of traffic, saving lives and money, but it seems a bit extreme to me. I guess they do have much bigger roos to worry about here though. And apparently much more intelligent wildlife. They have signs everywhere saying 'help for wildlife call....' our roos down home can't read, much less use a phone!
I drove past Hanging Rock on the way down, as in Picnic At Hanging Rock. It does look rather impressive driving past! I didn't get any photos though, since I was almost past by the time I realised what it was.
Once I got back to Melbourne, I headed straight to Talbot, the rehab center, to go see Louise (Lauren's sister). She is in the rocess of trying to order her own wheelchair, so I went to see her so se could try my chair, and to have a chat about the options. She looked really good in my chair-tall and stable. And I felt very disabled in the truck of a chair she's currently using!
After catching up with Louise, I headed to one of my favourite cafes in Middle Park (St Kilda) to meet up with Ella. We got there just as Hot Honey was closing, so we grabbed a piece of their amazing raspberry and ricotta cake, and went down to the Victorian Wine center, which is also a great place to eat (and drink I guess).
Then it was time to head to Des's, where I'm staying for the next couple of days. We've been watching the swans slaughter the pies...
Time for bed before I pass out on the sofa...

Driving into Melbourne

Cavendish- Bendigo

Well I slept well-I didn't even hear the girls get up this morning! That may have had something to do with my early night becoming midnight. Pat got home about nine and the four of us sat up talking. As a result, it was after eight before I woke up today and Lauren and Pat had already left for work.
Once I left Lauren's, I headed north east towards Bendigo. I stopped off at Ararat to go look at the jail, but I had missed the our, and didn't have an hour to wait for the next one, so I grabbed some lunch and hit the road again.

Ararat Goal

 The country is very pretty out here, not very different to Sheffield. I passed acres and acres of canola crops- yellow as far as the eye could see. There were lots of lakes and waterways everywhere, with wet lands full of birds. I also drove through the Pyrenees Ranges.

Canola and the mountains

 The speed limit here is driving me mad! I'm having to be really careful not to speed. A week ago, I was able to drive 130km/h, so 100km/h feels really slow... The trucks suddenly seem really small down here too. I was driving past trucks with 3 or 4 trailers- none of these are bigger than two. I keep expecting them to keep going and they just stop!
I think the cats on the fence Sunday may have been foxes. The fence I saw today definitely had foxes on it. I haven't been able to confirm or reject my ideas as to why they were there yet though.

Foxes

I also found another novelty mailbox too...

Mailbox

I got to Bendigo a bit after lunch time. I have been back a couple of times since we came through in 2006, so I remember it pretty well. My favourite thing here then, was the dragon museum, which was really interesting. It freaked Ellie out a bit though...
We spent the afternoon talking and catching up, then Adam cooked us tea.
I'm going to give this 'early night' thing another go now...

Distance travelled: 300km
Time driving: 3.5hours
Total distance travelled: 12,000km

Hamilton-Cavendish

I tell you what I struggled getting out of bed today! We packed up and made it just in time for the start. I had made plans yesterday to stay with a friend tonight just north of Hamilton, so I could go to the burlesque show that was on tonight. Except when I went to book my ticket this morning, I realized the show is actually wednesday the 17th. Of October! Whoops! Guess I'm getting an early (ish) night.
This mornings program was pretty god. I missed Annes presentation this morning, after it started twenty minutes early- I have no idea why!
One of the ladies noticed I was freezing yesterday, so she found me a blanket. She brought it out again for me this morning.
Annes second presentation finished at 2.15 and Mum and her rushed off to catch their plane. I went back for the last few sessions, but I was so tired that I hardly tok any of it in. I had to have a sleep before I drove out to Lauren and Pats!
I met Lauren a few months ago after her sister Louise broke her back. Des put me in contact with her and I have been trying to help her whenever I can, through my own experiences.
After my nap, I headed north to Cavendish, where they live. Lauren has two gorgeous little girls, but they had had a bit of a long day, so they went to bed quite early. I answered the phone for Lauren while she was getting the girls ready for bed, and there was a tellymarketer on the other end. I told him I was the babysitter and they weren't home!
A little while later, the phone ranf again. Some guy was on the phone, asking for Pat. I told him he wasn't here and he asked if I was Pat's new wife. Something like that I said. Anyway, he asked to speak to Lauren. I asked who it was before I handed the phone over. Pat. I couldn't stop laughing! It was pretty funny....
Louise's husband Matt was working up this way today, so he is staying here tonight too. I haven't seen him for months, so it was a good chance to catch up, and to see how Louise is going before I go visit her this week. Lauren made roast lamb for tea- I hadn't realized how hungry I was! We all had a good chat about my trip. I think its good for Lauren and Matt. I'm an example of where Louise will be in a couple of years.
So much for the early night, but having a great time catching up witheveryone.

Hamilton (Tuesday)

Oh my goodness! What a long day! We woke up for breakfast made by Carol, then headed off to the conference for an 8.30 start. The program has been very full on, with most of the speakers being very entertaining. There were a couple of speakers I found very difficult to listen too. Two had very strong accents and a couple because they weren't very well presented.
I have actually found it much more relevant than I expected. There were several presentations on OH&S that I found quite helpful and relevant, for when I am starting my own business in a few years. It has reinforced the importance of work place safety for me. You would think I wouldn't need reminding, having been through what I have, but I know even at home I do things that aren't necessarily 'safe'. I tend to think I'm 'invincible' and sometimes put more faith in my horses than is probably safe.
The final session for the day was Dr Roberto di Lorenzo, who is the President & Health and Well being Futurist Europa Health Forecasting Group, Milan, Italy. He was a very engaging speaker, but I found it hard to work out what his talk was about. The only theme I could pick up on, was that laughter is good for you. He kept cracking jokes throughout his presentation. Then he presented his last slide- I am the corporate impostor. It turns out Dr Roberto di Lorenzo does not exist! He had me going until the end, Mum too. though I knew the story he told us about his wrestling career wasn't true. a) you cannot physically bite yourself on the left testicle, b) I have heard that joke before. It was a very entertaining talk though, even the fact that he had completely pulled the wool over our eyes was funny. And the fact that Mum had been taking notes the whole way through... 
After the afternoon sessions, we headed back to the house to get 'frocked up' for the evening dinner. The house is a beautiful old and big two story house. Carols mum used to live with them, and she couldn't climb the stairs, so they have one of those stair lifts. I have never used one before, and they are a little intimidating... Especially getting off the lift at the top of the stairs! I think it scares Mum more than me though, she set herself up between me and the stairs. So had I fallen, we would have both broken our necks! We survived though.

The dinner was a great evening, but I was tired before we even left, so I probably didn't enjoy it as much as I should have. Dr Roberto, whose real name is Homer (who does that to their child?) gave us a bit of a spiel on his history and his work before dinner. He also told us about some of the other conferences he has spoken at. Its a bit disturbing how many job offers his characters had got after he had revealed who he really was.
The dinner was at the Hamilton Club, who put on an amazing meal- fantastic lamb! The dining room was up a couple of stairs, so the cute waiter carried me up the stairs. They did have a 'ramp' but he offered, so I wasn't going to say no! I love my job hehe. Mum, Anne and I all ended up at completely different tables, but I had some great people on my table. They had a trivia night after the main course, based on the Farmer Health website. I was sitting by the fire after tea when Libby Price, off the ABC's country hour came and sat down and had a chat with me, which was pretty cool, and rather flattering. After that though, we headed home and eventually got to bed.
I am exhausted! 

Dartmore-Hamilton

Today has felt both long and short. This morning feels like days ago, but I don't really feel I have done anything! I took advantage of today's short drive and slept in this morning. Millog had already left for work so I had the place to myself. It turns out there is an awesome view from his house too, that I couldn't see last night.

When I left, I drove back into Dartmore to get a picture to show you the carvings that line the main street. It's a bit hard to see them all though.
It was only a short drive to Hamilton, less than an hour, but still very pretty. It reminded me of the Frankford Highway.
I arrived in Hamilton just before 12 and called Mum. She and Anne had only just left Melbourne, so I went and found some lunch.
Then I retreated to the car and played on the computer until the conference started. And then I was late. Whoops. I did miss the opening speech's though, but from the last few minutes I did hear, I didn't mind. The two speakers who spoke this afternoon were both quite entertaining, and the MC was pretty funny. She was telling us how the only time she lived on the land was when she brought 120 acres with her husband. Then after a few months he left her for another woman, so she moved back to the city!
Mum and Anne arrived half way into the second speaker. It turned out I'd been expecting a completely different Anne! That explains why she sounded so different on the phone...
After afternoon tea, they had a panel discussing a hypothetical scenario- an outbreak of an unknown disease in the sheep capital of Australia, Sheepville. It was a bit funny in some parts, with breaking news headlines running across the bottom of the projector screen. Some of the captions included 'Barbeques Galore expect a drop in profits next quarter' and 'Sam seeks mental health support due to lack of lamb' (or something along those lines).
There is a big photo competition included in the conference, so we went and saw them all in the gallery next door for cocktail hour. I have never seen so much art as I have the last few weeks! There were some really nice pictures there though.
After the cocktail hour, we all headed back to the B&B where we are staying. Peter and Carol are both lovely, and very helpful. They even have one of those stair lifts, so I didn't have to climb the stairs! Mum's eyes nearly popped out of her head when she saw my haul from Hahndorf.
It's so much colder down here- I'm almost ready to go back to Alice! But for now, I'm just going to go to bed instead. Night!

Barabba- Dartmore

I had a bit of a sleep in this morning, since I don't have quite so far to go. That may have been a mistake. By the time I got up and organised and did the farm tour, it was midday. Whoops. again, when faced with the choice of back roads or highway, I took the back roads. I was so glad I did, it was the most gorgeous drive! Every second place I went past looked like it had been picke out of a wedding magazine. I think it was the Adelaide Hills I was driving through, but I'm not sure. I did go past One Tree Hill winery. I never saw the show, but I remember it being a huge hit a few years ago. Again, the cops seem to be everywhere this morning. They should be a very safe state with all this law enforcement out everywhere...

Someones been having fun...

I headed of looking for Hahndorf, a little town started by the Germans (could you tell) that we visited in 2006. I still have a business card at home somewhere for one of the chocolate shops there. Just before Hahndorf, I went through Woodside. I remember Woodside for their chocolate factory, which was no where near as good as the Hahndorf chocolate, so I kept driving when I found Melba's chocolate factory. Not to say they weren't good, I just liked the other place better.
As I drove through Hahndorf, I was looking out for this chocolate shop, but I couldn't see it (also the street is very narrow and I really had to watch where I was driving) so I parked up the top of the street and went for a push. As I rolled down the hill (fast, do I even need to say that) I saw lots of little shops I remembered. Uncle Mark brought a clock from one of the shops- they have the most amazing hand crafted cukoo clocks! They are quite beautiful. I also saw a leather shop we went to last time, but I was on a mission for chili chocolate truffles! I went into about 5 different chocolate shops (they are very big on chocolate, boiled lollies, fudge and ice cream in Hahndorf, all homemade and AMAZING), coming out with something at all of them I think. Mum, Anne and I are going to have a big couple of days ahead of us. Anyway, I found the shop! But their chili chocolates didn't look right, so I asked them how long they had been there. They were a new business, but there was a chocolate shop there before them, and they were now just down the street. Bingo! So I headed down the street (with a few of their chili chocolates, just in case they were amazing too) and sure enough, across the street, was Just Chocolate! Mission complete! I got some chili chocolate truffles, and they also had chocolate pasta, to be boiled, and served with ice cream and chocolate topping, so I had to get some o that too. Then I had to push up the hill. I'm not sure if I was just tired, or if the what-must-have-been-almost-5kg-of-chocolate was slowing me down. Possibly a bit of both.

Chili fudge- add to hot chocolate, plus many more...

The whole way back up the hill, there was something that didn't feel right about the town, something was missing. Then I worked out what it was. Squirrels. When I was in Canada, we visited a little town quite similar to Hahndorf, called Niagara on the Lake. Same type of building, same village feel, but with squirrels everywhere. I think Hahndorf needs squirrels!
On my way back to the car I stopped in to the leather shop. It was much as I remembered it. Cramped, with belts and hats everywhere. There are also lots of quirky sayings everywhere, and a wall covered with notes from different currencies. And the floor was so uneven, I almost got bucked out of my chair, but I held on. The main thing I remember about that shop though, is they give out samples of port to the customers. And I was only 17 when I was there-I was such a naughty child!

Fireplace in the leather shop

The money wall

As I was about to leave Hahndorf, I realised I should probably grab some lunch, so I went for the sensible option. Ice cream! Mango sorbet, and raspberry. So yummy! I got about two minutes down the road and it started to rain, so I managed that well. First time I'd seen rain in two months, unless you count the 5 (maybe 6) drops we saw at Birdsville.

The freeway is right next to Hahndorf, and it was about 3pm by this stage, so I took the highway instead of the quieter roads. I didn't see anything very interesting for a while along there. Someone called one of the towns Padthaway. Made me laugh. I think it was just out of Padthaway that I saw something rather strange. One of the farm gateways had a heap of dead animals strung up along the fence. I think they were feral cats, they didn't really look like foxes. If I was going to guess (which I am) I'd say it was a demonstration of the feral cat problem, but I really don't know. I wanted to get a photo, but I had a truck right behind me.
I went past so many vineyards today. Penfolds wine was one of the ones I recognised, but they went on for a hundred kilometres or so, as far as the eye could see. If it wasn't vineyards, it was cattle properties. I thought it was interesting to see little triangles fenced off in the middle of the paddocks, with trees in them, to provide shelter. In Queensland, the farmers just seem to find trees a nuisance so they tend to get rid of most of them. It's good to see the farmers down here understand the importance of trees, and that they ar protecting them.
A bit further down the road they were doing something a bit different with the trees. They were lit up! Not all of them, but every now and then as you were driving along the highway, there is a big tree with fairy lights around the bottom, and a spotlight pointing up the tree. It was really quite beautiful!
Every time I drive through a down with a water tower, I'm reminded of Scotty McCreery's song, Water Tower Town. Great song, look it up. It always makes me smile.

I had planed on stopping in Mt Gambier, but it was dark, and about 7.30 by the time I got there, so I drive through. They have an amazing huge blue lake almost right in the town, and these gorgeous crater gardens. The gardens are in big holes in the ground, and lots of people chose to get married in them, they are So beautiful. They were my favourite part of Mt Gambier on my last visit, so I was disappointed to miss them, though I'm not sure how I was going to go see them, since I'm pretty sure they involve lots of stairs.
As I left Mt Gambier, the landscape changed dramatically. All of a sudden I was surrounded by huge pine plantations, it was quite eerie...
I had crossed the border into Victoria before I even realised it was coming up. And of course the speed limit dropped back to 100km/h. Stupid Victoria. The road is no different!
Dartmore was only about another 25km though, so I arrived soon enough. I had been thinking about where we stayed our first night in Victoria while I was driving, in a BBQ shed, because we had finally hit rain. I was also wondering where the carved poles we saw were. Well, now I know. Dartmore! I drove into the town and there they were! I found the house I was looking for easily enough. Brock had suggested a couple of people I could stay with in Dartmore, one of them being Millog, who I've known for years through the rodeos. I didn't even realise he had left Tassie. So instead of the caravan park I'd been planning on, I had a bed, and a hot meal waiting for me. It turned out the place we had a camped at is only about 5km from his house! Small world, again!

Another long day, time to hit the hay...

Distance travelled: 500km
Time driving: 6 hours

Coober Pedy- Barabba

A long driving day today. I was up fairly early, had a quick shower and packed up. While I was packing up, a strange thing happened. A group of about 8 pigeons walked around from behind my car and kind of surrounded me and my swag. I'm guessing they were after food, but it was still strange, that they walked in. I recruited the lovely man across the path from me to help roll up my swag. Lester (I think I got that right) was heading to Ularu for a couple of weeks with his family. Do you remember me telling you about the necklaces Jane makes, out of the bush seeds that look like acorn hats? Well I happened to park under a tree last night, and woke up with several of those little hats in my bed! I also found out how she gets the hole in them- snap off the stalk! That's also when that amazing spicy smell is released.

I left the park and go about 500m along the highway before I remembered my fuel gauge was on empty, so I went back. My receipt from the Stuart caravan park also got me 3c/L off my fuel which was nice. Then I hit the road.
And then I found the caravan park I'd been looking for last night! At the sign for Williams Creek, about 2km past the turn off to Coober Pedy. I went for a drive, and it's called Riba's, and they have underground caves you can camp in and it's really cool! I didn't see Dad's coffee peculator though, sorry Dad.
There wasn't much after Coober Pedy for a while, just the odd road house. Then I came across a change in the road. It suddenly got really wide, and there were odd lines across the road. I was wondering if it might be an emergency airstrip. Sure enough I got to the other end, and there was a  sign, RAAF emergency airstrip!

Emus

There are melons everywhere along the road here again. You could be forgiven for thinking a tennis ball truck had rolled. They are still quite small and yellow, that's exactly what they look like. There were also lots of emu hanging around beside the road...
I had an interesting experience this afternoon. And I'd say I'm sorry if this is an over share, but I'm not. My bladder was in dire nee of a bathroom, and I was still 40km from the next town, and it wasn't looking like there was going to be any toilets before then. I don't think I've told you about autonomic dysreflexia yet. It's my body's reaction to pain or discomfort that I can't 'feel' in the conventional sense of the word. When this happens, my blood pressure rises, I get really nasty headaches, I get a fever, my legs shake even worse than usual. So here I am, 40km from a bathroom, freezing cold, my face burning up, and a splitting headache like someone has hit me with an axe... So I pulled over on the side of the highway, my side of the car facing away from the road, praying the ground is as solid as it looks. I've sat on the side skirt (or whatever it's called) of the door, trying not to fall out the door, trying to get my pants down, thinking this used to be so much easier!!! I somehow managed to get undressed and pee, without falling off, but then I had to do it backwards, without sticking my foot in a puddle! Well! That was even more interesting than getting out in the first place, but I did it! It would have looked so funny if anyone had seen me! And It's handy to know that, if absolutely necessary, I can pee without a toilet. See, these catheters are handy for something- external plumbing! Over share, I know.
And 35km down the road, I was really happy I had chosen to stop when I had. Because 5km short of the toilets, there was a traffic jam! Out in the middle of the desert! Ok, not really the desert anymore, but certainly a long way from anywhere you would expect a traffic jam! I turned off the car and read my book for a while. After about 20 minutes the traffic started creeping forward, taking about ten minutes to get past what was holding us up, which I think was a truck that had lost its load. They had the whole crew there, police, fire brigade, ambulance. Some of the firies were bagging up uniforms. And in the middle of it there was a guy pulled over in a truck, looking somewhat sheepish. And me feeling so relieved I had stopped when I did, because that was awkward enough by myself, without having to stop on the road with all those people around!

The accident was over the 'hill'

The next interesting thing I came across, apart from more gorgeous scenery I know you're all getting sick of hearing about, was Port Augusta. Where it went from red dirt and salt bushes, to looking like the north west coast of Tasmania! I stopped in the town for a quick bite to eat, then hit the road again. I had been thinking I was close to Adelaide, but it turns out there is almost another three hours drive.

A really big salt lake

I'm staying with Brock and Sam tonight in Barabba. I had two choices, highway or back roads. Why go the freeway with signposts when you can weave your way across the countryside with google maps constantly dropping out? It was an absolutely gorgeous drive though! Again, like the country up the back of Devonport, with little ruins scattered everywhere. There was so much stuff to stop and take photos of, but I would still be on way way here if I had.
I went through Koounga, the home of the Bunyip. Didn't see any though, which was a bit disappointing...
I was making excellent time until I got to Blyth. Then I thought I had accidentally spend past a cop, except it was an 80km zone like I though. And of course she had to follow me through to Balaklava, making me very nervous and as a result, driving 20km under the limit. Then she went off to arest someone else, and I had maybe a full minute alone before I came across the next one!
I eventually made it to the house, and Brock and I went into Gawler to meet Sam for tea. Brock has been playing with bulls again, and broke his leg last week, so  between me in my chair, and Brock on crutch's, we must have looked quite a spectacle! Especially when Brock almost fell over lifting my chair off the ute... After tea we all headed home. There is a bit a a step up the front doorway, so Brock and I again got to demonstrate just how disabled we both are at the moment!

GUESS WHAT!!! My left foot has healed over! Finally, over two months later, the little one has got better. I'm keeping it covered, and putting pawpaw on it still, to protect it, but it has skin over it! My right foot is still very fleshy, but down to about a ten cent piece now!

Night all!

Distance travelled: 800km
Time driving: 8.5 hours

Alice Springs- Coober Pedy

Despite having a great time staying with Sandra and Leon, it's time to move on. I have three days to get to Hamilton in Victoria. I was up nice and early, but somewhere along the way, (probably when Gaye gave me a massage before I left) I managed to get behind schedule. I stopped and got vegies for tea, and some fruit, then went to see Sandra on my way out of town. I ended up buying one of Lances other drawings. I think I actually like this one better than the one I was originally going to buy anyway. I'm definitely going to miss Sandra.
The scenery driving out of Alice is beautiful. There is a big gully you have to drive through to go south, with the river (dry river bed mostly) beside the road. It's quite beautiful. I know I've said it many times before, but the changing landscape really does amaze me. This trip has felt big, but not unmanageable. Yet as I was driving along, I realised so many of you reading this will never get to see what I am seeing. I was talking to Mum last night. She told me how Ellie had told our eldest cousin Tameika about my trip. Tameika said she was glad no one told her before, because she would have spent the whole time worrying, and that she could never do it. This is the same woman who took herself off to Canada by herself. It's funny how we all find different things so challenging. Mum said to me a while ago that there are a lot of people who never travel like us. I mean we did it years ago, so I didn't ever consider it to be that strange, but of all my friends, I can only think of two who have come close. Kate spent a year on a bus with her family, and I know Kara spent a few months up this way (my brain is still in NT) about the time I met her, but I don't know that any of my other friends have done it.

I got a bit excited when I found a heap of camels beside the road and stopped to take a picture. Then I realised my wild camels were actually part of a camel farm, at Stuarts Well. Oh well, I have the picture already, I may as well include it!

'wild' camels

I did however see something really coo, and just before Erldunda, the turn off to Ularu. If you haven't seen 8 Seconds, that is your homework today, but there is a song on it called Lanes Theme. It's an instrumental, and a beautiful piece of music. Just as it came on my ipod, I saw an eagle beside the road. Then I realised there was more than one. Six in fact! I have never seen so many eagles in one place, and it was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. I stopped the car and just sat there watching, trying to take photos, with the perfect song in the back ground. I drove away as it ended, truly thankful for the experience. I was blown away. I'm still struggling to find the words. Magical. Breath taking. Awe inspiring.

I stopped in a Erldunda for lunch. It was actually pretty good value which surprised me. Their chips are awesome. I continued on to the border. When we came through, we all climbed on top of the 'welcome to SA/NT' sign, but today I just took a photo.

SA/NT border

You know how I said I stopped for supplies before Alice? Well I had to cross a quarantine border today, didn't I! I was not impressed! If it wasn't for the fact that I am constantly complaining about people not looking after our farmers, I would have just kept driving, but I did the right thing and stopped. The roadhouse got ten bucks from in in replacement vegies. They could make a killing there! I did find it a bit frustrating the amount of food being wasted though. surely they could have some sort of trade off scheme or something. I was just laying all over the ground near the quarantine bin.
Driving through Cadney, I saw a great sign. Stop and eat or we'll both starve. Made me giggle, but I didn't stop, I was already a couple of hours later than I wanted to be. Someone out here has been having fun. All the road sighs warning drivers of camels, cows etc have had riders added on them.
I am somewhat concerned about the amount of dead cars beside the road. And almost all burnt out. I don't know if its that they have a particularly high crash rate, or just that no one can be bothered to collect the remains, but it is quite scary. Kept me focused. Maybe that's why they are still there, to keep the drivers terrified/alert.
I made it to Coober Pedy about ten minutes before sunset. For about 30km coming into the town, there are hundreds of dirt piles beside the road where all the opal mines are. it's quite spectacular to see.

Opal fields

I had a drive around the town trying to find the campsite we stayed at last time. The whole thing is under ground, you camp in little caves! Dad left his coffee peculator there last time, but I couldn't find the camp ground, so it looks lie its lost forever. I ended up at Stuart caravan park, which was pretty good. They have pretty good wheelchair facilities and good hot showers. I suspect I made a few enemies cooking tea though. They have a kitchen you can use, so I went to cook my tea. I did have the range hood on, but apparently that wasn't enough, because the smoke alarm was soon blaring. And it was not going to shut up. After about 20 minutes, someone got sick off it and stacked a chair on the table and climbed up to turn it off. Whoops!
After tea I gave Sandra a quick call to let her know I arrived ok, then Mum for the same. Except Mum and I are never quick on the hone.
So much for my early night...
Distance travelled: 700km
Time driving: 7hours
Total distance: 10,300km

Alice Springs (Thursday 2)

Almost time to hit the road again!
Today hasn't been particularly exciting, mostly washing and packing, getting ready to my final week on the road.
The others all went out for lunch, giving Sandra and I a few minutes together to just talk, something we haven't had much of a chance to do with our desert trip and Sandra having to work all weekend. I've really enjoyed spending time with her. I don't think we've ever spent so much time together, even if has been busy and with others. It really is uncanny how alike she and Mum are! I have to wonder if my children, and my sisters children will find the same thing in years to come. Ellie and I are close in age, and have always been close growing up. Becca and I have really similar personalities. It will be intersting to see. Maybe I'll end up like Keygan or Hayden? I somehow doubt it though...
As the desert festival continues, Leon and Andrew had another performance tonight, this time in the mall. I discovered potato twisties- coolest thing ever! Except she over salted mine, but still amazing...

Potato twistie!

The markets were pretty cool, but we didn't have heaps of time because...
We were going to the comedy show! Leon was the MC for the night, so we got to hear a few short skits from him throughout the evening, which were quite good. There were two other local comedians featured before the main act... FRANK WOODLEY!!
I was really surprised to see him on the program all the way out here. I was so glad he did though, because I haven't laughed that hard in ages! I had seen him as part of Lano and Woodley years ago, but I think he's actually better by himself. I got to meet him after the show, and I got my picture taken with him. Twice. Gaye didn't get one in focus the first time round, so she dragged him back for round two...

Having a cuddle with Frank!

 Really need to get to bed now!

Dragonfly in the bigtop

Alice Springs (Wednesday 2)

I am really starting to feel it getting this far into my trip. I'm finding I'm more tired, and taking longer to recover. So not much got done this morning.
About 11 Gaye and I went around to Bindi to meet the artists, and have a look at the studio. Gaye spent years teaching art, so I feel a little out of my depth when she starts talking art with Sandra, who has an arts degree.
I really enjoyed seeing Billy Benn again. When I met him Sunday, he didn't really speak much. Today we couldn't shut him up! We couldn't really understand much of what he was saying either, but I got as much as old people going to heaven, old men don't have women anymore, turn into vegetables. There was something about young people to, but I think it was just that we turn into old people, can't stand up some days. Not really a very cheerful subject, but the way he spoke was very animated, and I didn't find it sad at all. Gaye on the other hand was almost in tears. Maybe she heard something different to me. While all this was going on, he was painting. It was amazing to see it each step, as he added various colours and layers. It all looked quite simple but I know it would never have come out like that from my hand and mind. I'm a useless painter.

Billy Benn and Gaye

 Another one of the artists, Adrian, was working on a piece while we were there. There were a few of his pieces in the studio I really liked, but I think he get 'outshone' by Billy Benn a bit, who is quite well known. The painting he was working on when we arrived was quite beautiful.
We also met Jane, who has quite an interesting personality. She is a bit cheeky. She showed us some necklaces she had made. You know the caps on top of acorns? Well one of the native plants has caps like those on the seeds, but orange. She has made them these beautiful necklaces, that have this amazing spice smell, that I couldn't quite place.
Gaye and I went and had a look through the exhibition, since she arrived after the opening. There were a few of Jane's paintings Gaye really liked, but they had all been purchased at the exhibition, so we went away empty handed.
For lunch, we all met up at The Tea Shrine. It's a vegetarian cafe on Gap road, with some really nice stuff. Unfortunately mine wasn't one of them, but I had a chocolate milkshake so I was right.
I had planned on going to Desert Park this afternoon, but I was almost falling asleep at the table, so Gaye and I headed back to the house, via the second hand bookshop. We ended up with five books between us, just in case I didn't already have enough! They had such a good range of James Patterson though!

Adrian

I got in a couple of hours sleep in the afternoon, then the boys headed off to get ready to play at the Desert Festival. We had a visit from a couple of the kids across the road just as we were getting ready to leave. I put on my grown up voice and took them home. I was rather surprised when they stayed there! Must be because they don't know me, because they came back three times yesterday when Sandra sent them home.
The performance was held at Olive Pink, in a big top in the gardens. Leon is part of a band called Lucy and the Diamonds, and Andrew played a few songs with them as well. I really enjoyed their performance, though it was a little different to what I expected. More country twang for lack of a better description. The other bands were quite good too, but I bailed quite early since I was struggling to keep my eyes open. And I certainly wont be going back for the camel lasagna I had for tea... It tasted like it was out of a freezer pack you buy from the supermarket, very disappointing.
Another one of the teachers from Acacia Hill came over to say hi, and to tell me raw egg whites are very good for my burns. Sounds interesting though.
I need way more sleep than I will have time for before I leave, so better go to bed!

Alice Springs (Tuesday 2)

Another lovely day in Alice! My morning was filled with general pottering about the house and then driving Gaye and Andrew to the pool.
At lunch time, I went and met up with a friend. Sue helped me with some career counselling when I first had my accident, but since she is based in Alice, I hadn't seen her for about 3 years. We went to the Olive Pink Botanical Gardens and ate at the Bean Tree Cafe. I'm not sure what I was expecting from botanical gardens in the middle of the desert, but it wasn't what I got. It was a gorgeous collection of desert plants and flowers, many of which we saw in our Simpson Desert trek. I had a very yummy kangaroo and rocket salad and we ended up sitting there talking for a couple of hours.

Lexi

After lunch, I went to the Alice Springs Reptile Centre. I had been there in 2006 with my family, but it was still interesting to go back and have a look at all the different reptiles. I do find them all rather fascinating. They have a gecko cave, with a heap of different types of geckos (surprise!). Then there are two rooms with different snakes, lizards, turtles and frogs. They also had a monitor just wandering around on the floor in one room, sunning himself by the door. I had forgotten about him when I came back to look through the second room- he scared the living daylights out of me! They did a presentation not long after I got there, talking about the different types of lizards and how to handle them. She also did a bit of a talk about snakes. We have 18 of the 20 most poisonous snakes in the world, but only 1-2 of the 125,000 snake deaths each year occur in Australia. That's pretty good odds. They also have tiny fangs, which is why you should always wear jeans and boots in long grass- their fangs aren't actually big enough to get through either. Unlike a Gaboon Viper, who's fangs can get up to 5cm long! And if you do happen to get bitten, don't wash it- the hospitals have venom detection kits nowadays, so you won't need to bring in the snake.

Monitor

After our lesson on snakes, we got to do the fun bit and hold some. They had a blue tongue lizard, a bearded dragon (we saw dozens of those on the way to Birdsville) and a green olive python called Lexi. There were a couple of people who really upset holding Lexi. One guy looked like he was going to pass out, poor bloke. It didn't worry me at all, I was excited. I'm always surprised by how heavy they are. She was quite beautiful, and felt nice too. Like an expensive handbag, if you listen to the girl giving our talk.

Bearded dragon

After having to give Lexi back, I had a look outside at the outdoor lizards; shinglebacks, blue tongues, thorny devils, perenties. Terry the salt water croc also lives there, though he looked a lot less impressive after the big breeding crocs in Darwin. 

Thorny devils

After the reptile centre I headed home again. The boys had practise again and Gaye made us all felafel's for tea. I gave mum a quick call to ask her a couple of questions about a conference we are attending next week. She ended up talking to Sandra for a good hour or so!

Blue tongue lizard

 This early night thing is not going so well.... Night all!

perentie

Probably Australia's ugliest lizard- nocturnal desert skink

Alice Springs (Monday 2)

What an interesting day! This morning I moved into the small bedroom because Leon has some friends coming. So I washed all the sheets and get the room ready for them. Gaye and Andrew arrived about lunch time and we had a quick chat before they went for a bike ride around Alice. Just after they left, Owen arrived to film his documentary.
I was actually pretty nervous about the whole thing, which I found a bit strange. I have done quite a few interviews for radio and newspapers, and one or two tv pieces. But to sit in front of a camera, with a microphone and lighting, for two hours, was a bit alien. Fun, but also quite nerve wracking. I started off having no idea what I was doing and rambling on, but after half an hour I was starting to think about my answers a bit more. It also helped that I got out my notes for my talk, so we used that as a bit of a guide line. I found I was really enjoying myself by the time we finished. I was obviously feeling more comfortable, because I started bossing Owen around. He'd start telling me what he wanted, I'd get in my head what I wanted to say, and just tell him to shut up. In my defence, he did tell me to tell him to shut up if he needed to shut up. We were doing a sound test at the start and he asked me what I did yesterday. I told him I met some weird guy who wanted to film me. Apparently he thought that was funny. I can be a bit of a smart alec at times.... I was struggling a bit at the start to keep a straight face too. Turns out I laugh a lot when I'm nervous. And around silly people. Just joking Owen.
We had just finished up when Gaye and Andrew got back. Within a few minutes the guys were talking editing and Andrew had Owen looking at stuff on his computer, which was a bit funny. I took another hour or so to finish up, looking through photos to include, and taking photos of 'the boots'.
Leon and Andrew headed off to a practise session with the band Leon is a part of. They both play Dobro, a steel guitar, used in Bluegrass and country music. I really like the sound. Leon was playing for me last night, showing me how it works.
Gaye, Sandra and I stayed home. They got drunk on wine while I played them Dylan Yeandles performances from Australia's Got Talent. If you haven't seen him, you tube it.
We ended up having stir fry for tea, after we found out the Thai shop is closed Monday's. These guys are all late night people, so I can see this won't be an early night...

Alice Springs (Sunday)

The Aussie Rollers, Aussie Men's wheelchair basketball team, undefeated since Beijing, played Canada for gold this morning. Unfortunately they suffered the same fate as the women, with their shots not sinking, going down 58-64. Again, silvers amazing, but it's still heart breaking.
I had a rather slow start to the day again, before heading into Bindi, Sandra's work, for their art exhibition. In all honesty, I have never spent so much time looking at art as I have these past three days, but it has been really good. It was really good to go into Bindi and meet the artists Sandra works with and talks about, and to see their work. Billy Benn has been listed as one of Australia's 50 most collectible artists, so it was a privilege to meet him, and to have him show me his work. It was humbling to see how excited he gets about having his work hung, even though he is such a big deal. The piece behind his head is of the Harts Range, where he comes from.

Billy Benn and I, with his work behind him.

One of the other artists I really liked was Lance, who does a lot of horses and camels. There was a sketch of his for sale I really liked, but it was sold before the exhibition even opened, so I didn't end up with anything. Kukula McDonald was another artist whose work I really enjoyed. I think she likes cockatoos...

A painting by Kukula McDonald. Spot the cocky getting blown away...

I have noticed alot over the past few days that alot of the indigenous artists don't paint the sky blue. It's purple, green, red or orange. Billy Benn is one of the few I've seen who do paint it blue.
It is amazing how many people I have run into these past few days. I saw Wendy, the Acacia Hills principal Friday. Yesterday I saw another four people I have met since arriving in Alice, at Bindi's exhibition. One of those people was Michelle, who introduced me to Owen, a budding film producer from Sydney. He is in Alice for the launch of a short film he produced. He is also doing a series of documentaries, for a short film competition. This is an initiative of Nova Employment, attempting to bring the focus back to ability, rather than disability. One of these documentaries will be on Bindi, but he has also asked to do one with me! Wow! Alice Springs really needs some news. I have never had some much media attention, in such a short period in time. Owen is only in town a few days, so we have arranged to meet up tomorrow to have a chat and start filming. What a crazy thing to happen to little old me!
I also gave Owen my blog address to get some background on me. I don't think he realised just how much I've written- he thought he was going to get through it in one night. I found the best bits for him instead. What have been your favourite bits so far?
I cooked tea again last night. It look until the lasagna was on Sandra's plate for her to realise it was seafood, not beef. The prawns gave it away. In her defense, she'd had little sleep, no food and a couple of glasses of wine...
After tea I gave Mum a call. Not long now until I see her, and Ellie and Adam only a few days later. I have had the time of my life, but I really am looking forward to getting home and seeing everyone. Apparently my cat has been spoilt in my absence. I can't say I'm surprised, she really is adorable. So much for Mum's no beds, no sofa, so kitchen rules. She is now sleeping on mum's computer, because it's nice and warm!
Until tomorrow!

Some of Kukula McDonald's work

Billy Benn

Alice Springs (Saturday)

Gliders!! What a huge game!! I was up early this morning to watch the girls play for gold. They started strongly, but Germany quickly gained momentum. They fought well until the end, but in the end the Germans shots were sinking and ours weren't. Final score 44-58. I was ok when the game ended-disapointed for the girls, but not too emotional. Until I saw Cobi and Amber. Then I was undone. And I was messaging Mum at the same time, who was in much the same way.
On the other hand, it has kind of lit the spark again. Before our WNWBL final in June (national league) I really hadn't missed playing since I burnt myself, but watching the girls playing the finals, I found I did still want to be there. The same thing watching the Gliders play for gold. Maybe I do want it enough to have a crack at Rio. So I'll get through next year, and see what I want to do then. And make sure I still go to games, so I don't forget again, because its easy to forget when you're away from it all.
After my early start, I finally got through my list of jobs I've been struggling with all week. My swag has been cleaned, made and put away, and the room I'm staying in has a visible floor again. There was so much of a mess last night I had to back into the bed because I couldn't turn around in the room! All better now though!
As part of the Desert Mob exhibition, there was an art market today. Bindi, where Sandra works, had a stall, so Sandra was gone early to set up. I got out there about lunch time, so my first point of interest was food. I had a choice between the Bean Tree Cafe, selling bean stuff, or the community garden stall, selling camel burgers. Not sure if the camels were grown at the comunity gardens though.... I went with the camel, which tasted a bit like a beef pattie. Sandra and I then went for a wander through the market stalls. I picked up a few goodies for a couple of people back home. Still haven't found anything for Dad, who is next to impossible to buy for! He may end up with chocolate...
I spotted the guy who told me I looked like that singer last night. Last night he was in gold, today, skin tight black, heels and a handbag with the union jack.. Interesting character...I have seen a few of them lately.
After the markets, I headed home. I was feeling a bit tired, so I didn't get out of the car straight away. Sandra got home about ten minutes after me, and I just stayed there. A few minutes later she came out to water the garden, and I waited until she got round the front of my car and HONK!! You should have seen her face! What an evil child I am...
My legs are very unhappy with me at the moment. Even stretching doesn't seem to be helping, they just need lots and kids of sleep. My feet are slowly getting better still though. Slowly but surely.
Sandra and I went for a walk round the block before tea, during which I realized the bolt through my castor (front wheel) was lose. Fortunately it held on until we got back and I could fix it. Leon cooked us all tea, and we watched Winter's Bone. A very raw movie, but also very good.
Way past my bed time!!

Alice Springs (Friday)

What an amazing, brilliant, spectacular, suspersful game Gliders!! For those of you who have been living in a cave, the Gliders are the Australian womens wheelchair basketball team, who last night beat the USA team in a nail biting finish 40-39. They were even until half time, then the gliders gained a ten point lead in the third quarter. Unfortunately the USA girls got a bit of a run in the last quarter and we only just held on. It was so stressful! I actually felt sick by the end of the game! And NT is half an hour behind EST, so I had to wait, which was infuriating!
After I sat up to watch the game, I was pretty useless today. My achievements can be summed up in washing, leg stretches, chair maintenance. Oh, and falling asleep on the couch. It's funny. You would think that after this long it wouldn't surprise me how much different my chair feels after a bit of tlc. It's like having a new chair again. And it's stopped creaking!
When Sandra and Leon got home, we went into the Araluen Cultural Centre for the opening of Desert Mob. This is where all the aboriginal art centers from NT/SA/WA come together for a huge annual art exhibition. It was really interesting to see all the different types of artwork. Some of the paintings were nothing like I expected. Nothing like 'traditional' aboriginal artwork. There were a few things I really liked, but with prices between $600-$18000 I couldn't afford anything. There were some really cool sculptures, some wood, some recycled materials.

 

Exhaust pipe puppies

 The other thing I noticed was some of the most, let's say interesting, outfits! There was one guy, dressed very fancy, who told me I looked like a young Linda Ronstandt. I had to google her. Not sure if he was on the money...
Well, early start to watch the gliders in the morning... 6.15am EST on ABC2- Make sure you see it, it will be an amazing day. Clear eyes, full hearts Gliders!! We go this! 

Alice Springs (Thursday)

Another early start today. This time, for the Mayoral Awards, hosted by Acacia Hill School. AHS caters to students with moderate to severe disabilities, so it was appropriate they were the hosts, not just because of the chi9ldren, but also because of their parents and carers. Alice Springs mayor Damien Ryan opened the morning, explaining what the awards were about, before I did my talk. I didn't feel it was my best presesntion, as I was trying to keep it short, and just missed out huge chucks, like the fact that I'm from Tasmania, and that I still ride, and was back on less that two months after my accident. Both of which are fairly major things in my life story. But the kids were very attentive and the adults seemed to enjoy it too. I had a few quick questions, mostly about things that I would normally have covered, then we all had a big egg and bacon fry up for breakfast. I spoke to alot of the teachers and parents. Of course one of them was Toms (who I visited in Darwin, and have played basketball with) aunty! Once again, this world is way too small! I also did another quick interview with Ruby, a journalist with the ABC.

With mayor Damien, principal Wendy and two students

Once things wrapped up at the school, I headed back to Sandra's, to organise some stuff and have some lunch, before heading off to my massage this afternoon. No sooner had I got in the door, than my phone rang. This time it was the ABC, wanting to do an interview about the Mayoral Awards and my adventures.So that was booked in for later in the afternoon.
I tried to have a bit of a sleep before lunch, but that didn't really work, so I got up and had lunch with Sandra instead. After lunch I had a massage with Maria, from Balance with Body Therapy. She started off a bit soft, but once she ended up doing a good job. Feeling much better now.
I had an awkward amount of time before my interview, too much to stay in town, but not long enough to really do anything. So I went home and sat around there. I did have a minor panic attack when I looked at my phone, and forgot it was half an hour fast (still on Tassie time) and throught I was meant to be there five minutes ago. Whoops.
In the end, I was ten minutes early and they were ten minutes late. My interview was part of 'Drive' with Rohan Barwickm, who was pretty cool. I also saw Ruby again while I was in the studio. It was quite different to yesterdays interview, but still fun.
After my latest five minutes of fame, I went and got a lamb roast for tea. Sandra and Leon were both working late, so I cooked tea.
I had a rather interesting experience this afternoon. I was sitting in the kitchen chopping garlic for the roast when I heard these little voices outside. Next thing I know, the four young aborinal children from across the road are in the kitchen! I had no idea what to do. I know that Sandra has them over sometimes, but I really had no idea if they were allowed in, if I should tell them to leave or what! They were wandering all over the place, touching things and I was just sitting there watching muttering under my breath everytime they got too close to something. After a bit the eldest girl, Seraphina got them all on the couch watching cartoons, and I started to relax a bit. Sandra turned up not long after that and took charge. I will admit I was quite happy to let her. Although by the time Sandra got back I was starting to find my feet and taking charge myself, rather than leaving it to an eight year old...
I got a phone call this afternoon about my scholarship application. Emma, our course director, said she would have shortlisted me, but since she knows me, and what I wanted to do, that it would be a waste of my time. She has given me some pointers on what scholarships I should be applying for, and what else I should be including in my applications.
Tea turned out well, though my eyes were bigger than my belly. I've been catching up on my paralympic viewing, now I'm about to watch the Gliders take on the USA for a spot in the gold medal game.
Go Gliders!!