In memory of Elke Therese Black
In late September I visited Beechworth Cemetery (a big thank you to the Gellies for indulging my passion, especially the one that came with me into the cemetery) and I came across this grave.
It caught our eye with a beautiful cross that Nathan told me he wanted for his own grave, and so many personal touches. Christmas ornaments, a poem, a small obituary of it’s resident. A matriarch, animal lover who died last year at only 62, leaving behind her soulmate, children and grandchildren. She is only one year older than my own mama.
So many graves don’t tell you anything about the person there. Beechworth has many historical graves. Some with additional signs that explain their significance and are featured in the self tour booklet. This grave has told me more about Elke than any booklet could. She is so profoundly loved and known to her people.
One of the things on her grave was a packet of Black and Gold Black Cats. Perhaps I could have also found a packet among “the knick and knack that covered shelves” in her home. There was also a packet of Twinings Earl Grey, A tea near and dear to my my own heart although all of my tea bags are at work so I will just have to imagine “the large teacups and jiggling spoons” as I try some black cats that I found at a milk bar dedicated to confectionary near my work.
Black cats are a licorice flavoured jube in the shape of a cat. They are very similar to licorice jellybeans except they are not hard and crunchy on the outside with a soft interior instead they are chewy the whole way through. They are quite tasty and would definitely go well with a sweet mug of milky earl grey (although I prefer mine black).
Thanks for the Black Cats recommendation, Elke. May you and your family be at peace.