MIDWEEK MUSINGS Catch-Up has me thankful for the opportunity to make new friends in these senior years on my Croatian adventure. There was one couple in particular who won a special place in my heart.
Jane at 76, and her husband Joe, 80, are active seniors back in Australia on a nice-sized farmstead. Jane, a retired G.P., now works with folks with a mental health emphasis, and Joe takes care of the farm and is currently busy building them a new, smaller home on their property in order for their offspring to move into their old adobe with their kids. It sounds like a great way to stay on one's land and let one's kids take over the day-to-day workings of the farm.
Joe wore his COEXIST t-shirts in every color throughout the trip, so I knew right away we were politically aligned. He wanted to talk politics (unfortunately, a taboo topic nowadays) and was curious when I spoke of Natureman's activism. Jane made no bones about how she felt about the U.S. and its state of affairs or what was happening in the Middle East.
Jane also has a very unique way of remembering her trips as she collects little items and combines them to create a lovely arrangement, which she photographs and leaves them for others to encounter.
While in the National Park of MJet, near the church, Jane found various native products along the walk. When she spotted a brick of carved limestone lying next to a tiny chapel, she had her canvas for her finds and went to work arranging them.
When Jane finishes, she snaps a pic and includes her small masterpiece photos in a memory book of their adventures.
What a lovely idea, right?
Besides the arts, Jane also loves classical and folk music and definitely knows how to cut a rug too. Joe obliged her to a bold sashay down the middle of our dance party one night when it was time to exit.
They definitely know what the other likes. When Joe needs alone time, Jane gives him space as she picks up a book/makes a point to visit with the other travelers.
It was a delight spending time with these Aussies whether traversing a new town, enjoying the frigid Adriatic waters/ a meal/ excursion.
Travelling is a good way to meet people as one is never too old to make new friends!
No comments:
Post a Comment