[finally.]
Our failed attempt, however, only boosted our determination to get to this mysterious village. The next morning we began our 2nd attempt- this time we would go by chartered plane. As the pilots tediously weighed every ounce of luggage & food item to board the plane, we feared that once again our plans would be thwarted. But soon after, with the cargo compartment strategically stuffed to its brim, our plane left the ground lending the most breathtaking views of the Australian topography. A short 20 minutes later, we found ourselves bounding along a dirt road in the back of an old pick up with our welcoming hosts at the wheel.
[the two planes which took us to oenpelli.]
As we pulled up the gravel drive to our 2 bedroom apartment, I think our team learned its first hard lesson about expectations. It’s funny how perceptions can differ in regards to a two bedroom apartment. We were quick to assume the Americanized manifestation of that description. However, the tick infested, corrugated metal shanty, possessing 2 separate rooms justifying its misleading description appeared the perfect candidate for an award winning horror movie set.
So here I am, sitting on the front “porch” of our home- the story now caught up to the present. I am honestly fighting to remain joyful. After all the confusion leading up to even getting here, I’ll admit I had high hopes. But now I’ve been hit with the realization that this month will most likely be challenging. We aren’t at El Rancho anymore. All comfort is gone. This is when things get real. I’m nervous, but I’m ready. Here goes nothing.
Some more pictures of our journey….
[the airport.]
[billy & i in the plane about to take off.]
[aerial view of the northern territory.]
[more awesome views.]
[middle of nowhere, literally.]
Also, below is a video made by Lana about our journey to Oenpelli. Take a look.
