......it's different!

This week has been different.
Sadly, there were two deaths in the town over the weekend. One was a young mother and the other was an Elder. So begins my first experience of "sorry business". The people here are very traditional and family is very strong. This means that everyone who knows either of these people is deeply effected by their passing and is now on "sorry business", or mourning time. Their is no set time frame around the length of time this will last. Funerals here are not held for sometime, as often family members need to travel great distances to attend.
At work, this has meant that most of our Indigenous workers are not in and most of our non-Indigenous are not in or keeping a very low profile, as a sign of respect. Because I did not know either of them, it has been OK for me to be here (also the Admin Assistant) to keep the place ticking over. However, we did not wear uniform and took the signage off of all vehicles, to indicate we were not working.
At home, I am madly watering the weeds, morning and night. Quite spectacular how things go from brown to green with a few drops of water! I am proud of my green weeds.
I have also upgraded my study course to the next level, which means about 3 online lectures each week now, plus the additional reading. With not a lot to do at night, and no red wine to keep me company, I thought I should make the most of time. With no Internet connection (or phone, for that matter) at home, I am listening to my lectures from work, which means I am not getting back to the "sea container" (home) until after 6 PM. I then have to type up my notes - keeping me out of trouble, I guess.
I didn't do the Gieke Gorge tour. The guide is on 'sorry business'. Hopefully I get to do it before he finishes for the season.
Don't believe the temperatures you see on the news/internet for Fitzroy! I don't know where they are getting them from, but it sure is not near where I live. I think they must have the thermometer under water, in the shade!! It has been well over 40C each day for the last 7, at least. (our offices are WONDERFULLY airconditioned, thank goodness)

Until next time .... X