Autumn in the Wheatbelt

I decided to leave a bit earlier for Merredin, hoping to get there before dark but, roadworks and a big convoy of road trains for part of the journey slowed me down considerably.  I am so done with roadworks!

It struck me yesterday how nervous I used to be overtaking one of those big trucks even when there was an overtaking lane.  I would never overtake on a country road at any other time.  I’ve learnt to trust these drivers.  They know they hold up traffic and help out other motorists.  Seated high in their rigs they have a good view what’s in the distance.  I’ve learnt their helpful signals, two clicks of an indicator means pass or clicks on the opposite side, means get back in lane.  If there’s no traffic a thank you wave gets a quick high beam.  Communication between strangers who will never meet.For the stretch between Cunderdin and Kellerberrin there was just one truck ahead of me. The sun was seated at the horizon.  It was going to be dark soon.  I just had to stop and take a picture.  I love those skies in the Wheatbelt!
I spent a few moments resting.  It was peaceful with sheep in the paddock.  With occasional traffic, it was the silence of solitude that I love so much.

My visit went well.  I’ve been asked to do another talk in six months, so I guess that went well too.

I decided to come home after work instead of spending another night there.  It’s a 3.5 hour journey and I knew it would be dark for some of the way but I would be closer to the city and street lights.  As luck would have it I got delayed at work, and I had already checked out.  I had no option but drive home.  By the time I got to Kellerberrin, there was haze from burn off and dust from winds.  Visibility was poor but the sunset was spectacular.  A massive blood red sun that seemed to get bigger as it slipped from view.  I just could not find a safe enough spot to take a picture so I just experienced the moment instead.

Although the weather has been warmer for autumn, the landscape is welcoming a cooler change around the Wheatbelt.
There are chocolate shards peeling off gum trees in Narrogin.

This trunk was so tactile.  You could feel the life of this big tree in every ripple and indentation.  It made me think, one can never say they are alone when they are with trees.  They are a silent presence in my moments of solitude.  They are a perfect partner for me!
The fallen gum nuts created moments of still life photography of what once was, and still is, beautiful.  They made me watch my footsteps and walk mindfully.  A teaching moment here, too.
Outside my chalet window, the textures and colours of a young tree, distracted me.  Who could blame me?

I’m home where I’m also happy.  The major renovations are done.  I need to get the painting sorted.  The colours will come from nature’s palette.  I’m starting to embrace this house as my home.  I can envisage what I want with clarity.

Until next time

As always

a dawn bird