Travels to Lady Elliot

TV Show Combo

As day follows day and I clean, change sheets, count pillow cases, vacuum and make origami towel arrangements I settle into a rhythm that feels good except for the aching bones, muscles, etc. I remember that once upon a time I was using a paid personal trainer to make me squat and move as I do now. I constantly hear “core on” in my head as my lower back complains knowing that a strong core saves your back.

The physical routine is pleasing as there is no time for thinking about anything other than the task at hand and sometimes the one just ahead. Today I worked alone for most of the day and it was a relief to not have to listen to someone talk all day long.

The nights are sometimes difficult as those who have experienced broken heartedness would know. Luckily I have some meditation tracks on my iPhone to assist with ridding my mind of thoughts that I cannot process right now. I tell myself that this is early days and all will be right in time. Shed a few tears for would have, could have, should have and move on.

Working on an island with such isolation (tv and phone limited) does come with some interesting people. Turns out there is somewhat of a culture of people who go from resort to resort to work. People here have worked at Kakadu, Heron Island, Dunk Island, Cradle Mountain, El Questro, etc. It does allow you to work without worry about car, accommodation, or staying on top of current affairs.

There are moments when I am working with the physical challenges, listening to conversation, observing, or absorbing information that I think this is like a combo reality TV show. Big Brother, Survivor, Biggest Loser, Farmer wants a wife, Undercover Boss, etc. I float around all of this as I am just an oldie here for a sea change.

The “kids” take it all quite seriously. One person was asked to leave recently, dramas in the dive shop, romances all around, people coming and going,  complaints that management is not listening / caring / understanding. All the usual work issues but 20 year olds working and living together, an interesting combination.

Had a chance to snorkel yesterday after work. Around noon there were over 100 mantas feeding. At 4:30 I saw no mantas but did see 2 green turtles and 1 loggerhead along with many fish. All interesting. In a few days I will snorkel during my day off and hope to finally observe the manta rays under the water. On the planes coming and going I have seen them from above the water. I also hope to see whales from the boat.