being a tourist

Since we are only going to be here another couple weeks we are trying to soak in all the activities to do around Alice Springs. There are so many things to do, but I have always wanted to learn to make baskets....I know, not the most complicated skill, but it is something I have wanted to do. I found out that Desert Park was having a little class put on by the Tjanpi weavers (that first word is pronounced JUMPY, just so you know) so I called a couple friends to see if they wanted to come along and learn a new skill. We had a great time. You may not know this, but basket weaving is NOT an indigenous skill. In fact they have only been making baskets for the past 10 years. Typically they would use a Coolabah (I am sure that is not spelled right - forgive me) - which is a burnt out piece of bark - for carrying around bush tucker and babies. But about 10 years ago there were some groups who wanted to teach the ladies of some of the tribes a skill so they could earn a bit of money. Basket making it was! Typically a small basket will sell for about $100 US. The dot art came around in a similar fashion. A lady from the US saw some of the dream time stories that were drawn into the sand so she encouraged the ladies to paint them on canvas so they would be more permanent.



Emma and I had a great time and everyone else seemed to be having fun too - so I figure it was a success. My basket is not so impressive, so it is going to be a while before I post a picture. LOL.


Ethan is having Indigenous awareness week at his school and he has been learning all kinds of things. Most importantly how to make Kangaroo tail in the ground with fire. He really wants me to make it for him because it is the most delicious thing. You wrap it in aluminum foil and cook it in the ground until the fur melts. Yumm.....or not. I would sure try some if someone else made one, but I can't see myself digging up my backyard so I could cook a great big roo tail.



What else??? Oh I know we went to a didgeridoo show the other day. It was a really good time too. We learned all about the didgeridoo and all the different ones available. Pretty good tunes too. Sam passed out about halfway through the performance and had to be carried back to the truck.


I also only have a couple bags left!!!!!! I think I am going to have them all finished by the time the movers come! I have been working on the quilt Georgia McDonald sent for the Bush Fire Quilt Project. It will be finished tomorrow so I will put up pictures then.

Have a good night everyone!

XO,
Tia