The Unconventional Tourists

Before hitting the highways I made a promise to myself.  I would let things happen and take opportunities that came my way rather than have a must see list and a timetable.  It’s worked really well so far but with the pressure of fewer days before us than behind us, it’s becoming a little difficult to keep my promise.  Added to that is the helpful advice “You must visit here,” “You must drive there!” 

Today, with some hesitation, after watching the Henley on Todd Regatta Parade I decided to drive home with Will rather than stopping to see the ‘must do’ galleries and ‘should see’ events of the Henley Regatta.  I’d already enjoyed watching a caring drumming teacher organise his band of 16 or so students (some barefoot, some shoed) into some sort of order.  When a student’s nose ran, he wiped it.  When another tugged at his sleeve and pointed out something funny he gave her his undivided attention.  I snuck a few photos and Will grinned and said “Happy now, you’ve got your shot of some locals,” which was exactly true. 

I noticed the lovely aboriginal designed seats I’d missed the day before and I’d laughed at the hijinks of the Navy Crew with the Vikings contenders.  I’d watched little children be thrown more bags of lollies than they need in a year and I’d recalled the joys of watching the Benalla Rose Festival Parade from years before. 

It was tempting to ask Will to take me for a short 4 hour drive, as that’s about as short as they come in Alice but I didn’t.  We decided on an early afternoon in preparation for a full day out tomorrow.   So home we headed, and yes, it really feels like home - if only my son were nearby for the occasional long conversation and short hug!  We took one extra turn to enquire about the cost of disposing of an old truck, just in case the K5 out the back is going cheap and we need to dispose of it after stripping it of necessary spare parts. Isn’t that what all tourists need to know about??  To our delight we found the town tip which runs an extraordinary second hand shop.  You want it, it’s there!! So we wandered our way through enjoying the way another town does its thing.  We came away with one wine glass, a novel and a photo of a fantastic sculpture.  And memories of a shared time in a place that will never find its name on the list of Must Do’s in Alice Springs.

The afternoon is drawing to a close as we read books, take turns Nana napping, and I enjoy a wine from a glass given by a dear friend.  I won’t see everything there is to see around Alice and I'm okay with that.