Angie’s Artefacts again…

Spring is almost done as I head out into the red centre of Australia for a wander amongst Kata Tjuṯa’s thirty-six massive burnt orange rock domes. Setting out just after sunrise, I aim to avoid an afternoon thunderstorm and downpour. However, feet shod in sturdy hiking boots, I’m well prepared for inclement weather and slippery rocks. I keep my eyes peeled for any interesting specimens the recent rains might have exposed.

A short distance up the stony trail I catch a glimpse of a flash of mauve. On closer inspection, I find an hibiscus-like Sturt’s Desert Rose nestled amongst the red rocks.

Likewise, Shirley Belk’s poem “Weighing it by Hundreds” is indeed a delightful find.

I can think of a hundred things that make life bitter,

but grateful that thousands make it so sweet.

There were hundreds of reasons that life made me weak,

But ten thousands of reasons I stood strong instead.

Shirley’s pendulum swing between Hundreds and Thousands, puts me in mind of the multicoloured sprinkles atop childhood birthday cakes. Feeling a little peckish, I munch on some trail mix as I continue on my happy way until something curious snags my attention.

Addison Alder’s poignant tale spotlighting the woes of his Welfare System gives me plenty of food for thought.

Dear sweet Jim tugged at my heartstrings… a gentleman to the end.

His blue eyes beamed through the white mane of his hair. He could have passed for Santa Claus had he not been so gaunt, and his rosy cheeks been caused by eczema.

He smiled gently and gave her a handwritten note.

I press onward and upward to the lookout across the desert and other spectacular rock domes… well rewarded for my effort. Compared to Jim and other much less fortunate souls, I realise that I have a wealth of blessings to give thanks for.

Later, hurrying back to my car — hunched against the blustery wind and eying a stormy sky — a weathered scrap of paper flaps nearby in the spinifex grass.

What a find! I scoop it up to read more carefully once I reach the security of my vehicle — snug and dry — safe from the storm almost upon me.

L.C. Schäfer’s Carried Away is a delightful note to finish my day on.

I chuckle to myself as I call it a day and head back to my tent. Hope it doesn’t leak!

***

It’s been a while since my last hike…

Angie’s other archaeological treks:

Angie’s Artefacts: III

Angie’s April Artefacts

Angie’s Artifacts