I always leave my journal entries for last, when I log on, and thus always find myself with very little time to write in here. Basically, I have too much to say and only 15 minutes in which to say it!

I am currently in Noosa, which is quite possibly one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in. Standing on the pristine beaches, withh the forested national park to the right, and nothing but blue water in front of me just makes me want to cry. It's nearly too beautiful to be real. I took pictures, of course, but they will not do it justice.

It's hot here, in mid-coastal Queensland, probably about 90 degrees (still haven't figured out the celsius/farenheit conversions). Every night there is an electrical storm, brought about by the day's heat. we're in the middle of a pretty spectacular one right now, which is why I mention it. every 5 minutes or so the sky is lit up by brilliant lightning, and a chorus of amazement comes up from everyone sitting out on the verandah. this hostel is pretty open, meaning there are not any doors in the common areas, they all interconnect. it's a nice place, very friendly, even if I am feeling a bit guilty about being american at the moment! I've gotten in to a few political discussions since I've been here, and was told the other night by a bloke from Oxford that america is the joke of the world. he didn't say it hostiley, just very matter-of fact. unfortunately, I could see his point, what with America's ridiculous attack in Afghanistan, and george bush's complete disregard for foreign policy. but still, it hurts a bit to hear it. I mean it's one thing for me to critique the US government, but quite another to hear it from folks who don't live there. I know it's not perfect, but it's the only home I know. Unfortunately, I don't seem to have enough "patriotism" to defend the "american way" what with all the attacks going on. I can only remind people that I cannot be representative of all americans, and they seem to understand that, for the most part.

I seem to be out of time yet again, and I haven't even relayed some of the more fun things that have been going on. the hostel that I'll stay at in Cairns supposedly has free internet...let's hope so! tomorrow I'm off on a day tour to Fraser Island, which I'm really excited about, and then Friday I leave for Rockhampton.