It's been a long time since my last entry, and even now I find it difficult to wrtite.
shortly after we arrived, another volunteer named John Dods, a 74 y.o. divorcee in a ute and caravan turned up.
A likeable fellow, he was very clever with his hands and soon settled into mechanical repairs. We became friends and began going to Garage sales together. Problem was he was a talkative kiwi and if he picked up any trace of an accent or any other excuse, he would stop for a chat, so we never got very far.
On a Saturday in late March he began to mention that he was not feeling well after a hot day on the tractor and slasher and put it down to heat stroke, but he didn't improve. On the Saturday evening, I said I should take him to hospital to which he readily agreed. but a doctor checked him out and pronounced him to be in good health. The following Tuesday he was having dinner when a valve in his heart blew out and he fell down dead.
His relatives came from Brisbane and N.Z. and stayed for a week to make arrangements and have the funeral
Liz Martin the CEO here did everything she could to make their stay comfortable, arranging a memorial service and a Saturday night dinner,as well as giving them accomodation and the run of the place.
well, fortunately Mollie isn't in pup! HOORAY
Although Maureen has been keeping fairly good health her weight is still a reason for some concern, so we decided to give weightwatchers a shot. Early signs are that it is working as we have both lost weight.
We took a few days and travelled out to the West Macdonnell Ranges where there is some stunning scenery. Stayed at "The Glen Helen Resort" which is the remnants of a big old cattle station. The accomodation was basic but clean and comfortable. The food was very good and plenty of it.
The second night we pitched our tent in their caravan park (a new experience for Maureen) We had a great time.
