Mundaring to Southern Cross, WA

Howdy Camel Cowboys & Cowgirls,

Typing is a foreign process....

Perhaps it's because this is the first time I have been able to dedicate the use of both hands to one activity, without having to hold a rope, tie a knot, tighten a strap and swat at flies whilst swearing through a pocket knife that's gritted in my teeth.

320kms into this journey I have had my doubts and shed as any many secret tears as I have obvious kilos. In the months and weeks leading up to this epic (insert word) we were so busy preparing essentials that I didn't have any time to consider the hardship of this undertaking.

Crossing Australia with camels is an emotional challenge and were it not for the many characters that we've met along the way that greet us with surprise and enthusiasm, then I don't know whether I would be feeling the same level of spiritual fitness that I am right now.

I'm terrifically humbled by the generousity of people in rural Australia and ever thankful to the many many many people that have offered us advice, a cold drink, a bale of hay, a smile and words of encouragement along the way. It's especially easy to become complacement during the routine of dusty travel. Our brilliant camels are our first thought in the morning and the last thought at night, and on occasion bolt through my dreams waking me in a pool of sweat. But trusty and loyal they remain and the sounds of them chewing their cud acts as a calming presence as I lay in my sway under the stars each night.

Tomorrow we leave Southern Cross en route to Kalgoorlie. The trainer wheels are soon to be left behind as they will buckle with the greater distances we now have to travel between supply points.

But foreamed with no expectation and a growing appreciation for the taste of flies and dust we will travel smiling.

Peace Be the Journey
Nate

PS: More pics at Group: "Into The Rising Sun" at http://www.facebook.com/