Wow my last night abroad. Well technically it will be over the ocean and what not but ohh well. I’ll be sleeping in Atlanta time anyways so that will be good.

Didn’t sleep well again last night. Maybe it is my mind subconsciously acting to resynch to Atlanta time. But probably not. I was dead dog tired after snorkeling and what not so I got to bed around 10 with the lights on but woke up at 1:30. Somebody in the room (I suspect it was one of the two old people in the room) was breathing with this high pitched almost screaming sound. It was also hot in the room and there were periodic smoker outside. I slept in and out. As well one of the two old guys like randomly talked loudly in his sleep. It was weird.

My alarm went off at 3AM and I was awake and ready. All of my stuff had been set out so it was easy to get going. I went down and found the kitchen locked but fortunately found an employee to open it. I then ate breakfast and waited for the shuttle. It was easy enough and we arrived at the airport 50 minutes later.

I got in the Virgin Blue line, thankful for not going in the Qantas line as it was out the door with a mix of school groups and others. I got up to the counter and checked in. I requested a seat change to a window seat near the front of the plane after reading that Virgin Blue’s flights had premium economy seats at the front. The lady booked me in 3A on both flights for no extra charge.

I went through security without being second tested and wanded which Is really rare than searched the bookstore and sat down. I watched some scrubs and then got in line to board the plane. We walked through a temporary tunnel to the plane as they are constructing new gates. A lot of airports are doing major renovations it seems. The plane was a Boeing 737-800 with seats for 180. The boarding was done on the Tarmac at both the front and the back. I don’t think I have seen that much in the states.

Because Virgin Blue is a LCC, they IFE was not free. I just got out my laptop and slept for the flight. Arrived in Brisbane, found my seat, and then boarded a new plane for Sydney. This was a 737-700 which is smaller in capacity by about 40 seats. Takeoff was on time and everything was easy. I was very grateful for the increased leg room. It was really nice.

Arrived in Sydney, collected my bags, and headed to the train. It seemed familiar now but the $15 ticket still hurts. I got off at central checked into my room and dropped my bags. I then went and picked up my duffle. I prepped my daypack and went off to the city. I was gonna by some souvenirs from the Market I saw the last time I was hear but I forgot it was closed on Tuesday. Ohh well. I can’t really fit too much more in my bags anyways.

I went to the Hyde Park Barracks museum. It was good, similar to what I expected. An old lady talked to me for 20 minutes about the history of Sydney. It was a great story but very long. There was also a kids group here. It was fun to see though as the two girls leading the 20 or so kids were dressed in a pirate outfit.

Afterwards I went for a stroll down the gardens and back to the Opera House for the last time. The day was gloomy with the occasional drizzle. I then headed to see the Rocks as Mary had suggested. This is the oldest part of Sydney and was very neat. I walked through some stores and then back towards the main drag. I picked up a couple shotglasses and then headed up Pitt Street. It is only one over from George street but it looked interesting.

It was just before rush hour so there were lots of people out. I was looking for a food court or something like it and walked through a shopping plaza. Inside a guy was selling Asian meals 2 for $5. I found my dinner. That was a very small mall so I continued on and found the Sydney Central Mall. It was at least 5 stories around from the way I walked and probably a few more. There were 2 food courts and tons of shops and boutiques. I sat down and ate my dinner and watched the people go about.

I then headed back to the hostel through the full rush hour crowd and then started writing this.

I really like Sydney as a city. There are a lot of Asians but it is very mass transit and walking oriented. As well there is good history and a wonderful harbor. All in all one of the favorite cities I have been too.

I am really tired as of now. It’s amazing how the human body will function when you need it too like this morning when I needed it. But when I was on the plane all that energy disappeared. Kinda like now, I have no real goals and thus my brain is tired. I think I will got to bed early.

If your reading this on EST it might be weird as my flight leaves tomorrow morning which is still your Tuesday. I leave SYD at 9:50 Local time and arrive in Atlanta at 3:00 PM the same day. Should be smooth flying. I will take the train in tomorrow and get there plenty early to do some plane watching.

I am excited to be going home to the familiarity of my friends and family.

All the Best and Cya Soon!

-Mathias

Hello All!

So today I fulfilled a childhood dream. My words cannot even describe the beauty and awesomeness that was snorkeling on the great barrier reef.

I didn’t sleep well last night again. I don’t think it is the fact that it is a twelve person room I more attribute it to my change in diet. I went from low sugar, med carb, and high protein to high sugar, hugh carb, low protein. As well I know I am emotionally eager to get home, as much as I have absolutely loved and cherished this Queensland trip. Seriously this place is awesome. And that isn’t just the volleyball talking.

Anywhoot I got up ate breakfast and headed to the wharf. I checked in and was a little early as I usually am, I normally try to leave plenty of time. So I sunscreened up and then went and joined the queue waiting to bard.

I then realized the line I was waiting in was for a picture in front of a captain wheel with the name of the boat. I knew I wasn’t going to pay the exorbitant price for the picture so I just went around the line so I could get a premo seat on the boat. And I did.

I got on the upper deck, a forward facing seat on the starboard side. It didn’t have direct forward views but I got about 75% of the way their. As well with the breeze and such it would help avoid any seasickness. I read for the next 30 minutes or so and then the boat departed. But some Asians were left behind so we turned around and picked them up. We weren’t that far out but I was chill and just went with it.

The ride out was pretty with the mountaneous coastline covered in a variety of rainforest. We dropped off supplies at an Island resort (spacing on the name ATM) and then headed back out. The swells were fair, not as bad as white island, but for some reason the catamaran seemed to move more. Anyways there were people vomiting everywhere. It was gross.

The announcements made were in 4 languages what I think were English, Spanish, Mandarin (or Cantonese I can’t spot the difference) and Japanese. So that was cool. Unfortunately the top deck speaker wasn’t working so I couldn’t hear any of them. I was like sweet as it will all work out and continued enjoying the ride and reading when it wasn’t too choppy. Along the way they attempted to sell more upgrades and special packages.

We arrived at Murray Reef (It was something like that) at the permanent pontoon placed there. The pontoon was about 120 feet long and contained lots of tables, a diving prep area and snorkeling supplies. I was expecting some explanation but none came. Being myself I didn’t wait but like two minutes then started getting my equipment with some other self starters. The crew were busy gathering the other boats and doing other things and if we were snorkeling we just kind of got the stuff ourselves. It wasn’t bad, just not what I was expecting.

Got my lifejacket, snorkel, mask, and fins and headed to the platform to jump in. I think I was the third or so person in the water. There was a lifeguard on duty as well to help. I thought we could explore the entire reef area which was huge but about 50 feet outside the safety line I was told to turn around.

The coral reef was unlike anything I had ever seen before. Granted this was my first time legitimately snorkeling in the ocean so it took a good 5-10 minutes for me to adjust to breathing only through my mouth, being a swimmer I am used to exhaling constantly through my nose.

I quickly found a sea turtle which a guide had told us earlier was somewhat rare on this reef. (He had also mentioned it was a very low tide so it would be best to snorkel early). I lost track of time watching this amazing creature. It was a fair amount larger than my torso and about the length of from the top of my head to my waist. The way it glided and swam through the water was beautiful and effortless. An amazing creature. I continued snorkeling and looking at the variety of corals and fish. Seriously it is something I will never forget. All of the fishes with their brilliant rainbow of colors and the coral with their unique formations.

I finished snorkeling after a little over an hour when I felt I should get water. (With the way the tides went you were almost always swimming upstream. I got the provided lunch and loaded up my plate, buffet lunches are money to a backpacker. I ate and talked to an Aussie brother and sister with kid over lunch. Normal conversation, not the best.

I then waited about 10 minutes and went for a ride in the glass bottom boat. It was neat as we got to go to a slightly different reef, but snorkeling was still better. However the experience of going in one was worth it alone. My favorite part was seeing the oxygen bubbles when the motor was in reverse.

That tour last for 20 minutes and then I went on the semi-submersible boat. Actually now that I remember it I went on the glass bottom first then lunch then semi-submersible.

I like the semi-submersible boat better because the glass was easier to see out of. Again the bubble effect was really neat. There was also a good guide who pointed out interesting corals and named fish and whatnot.

After this (it was about 2:20) I went back and got my snorkeling gear to get back in. This time however I ditched the fins and lifejacket as they were not required and I am a natural breathstroker. That made it easier to dive as well. This time was even better. I got to go down and get a closer look when diving. I made it about 13 feet before the pressure got to be too much for my ears. As well in the heavily salted waters I was more buoyant.

I loved watching all of the fish and looking again at the coral. There were all types, brain coral, the tree types, giant clams, and many more types. Some of the larger stand alone corals (well they had other things growing on top of them) are up to 1000 years old or older. I also saw many of those things that pop open and shut. About 45 minutes in some random Chinese guy came up and said follow me I found some cool fish. This was about 2 minutes after thinking I was a little disappointed I hadn’t seen a nemo fish yet. Sure enough the universe works in mysterious ways and he had found where they lived. They weren’t the nemo type as they only had one type but they were still clownfish. I watch them and the other fish who had congregated in that area. It had a really strong tide and I had to keep light swimming to avoid being pushed on top of the coral.

I loved seeing the variety of tropical fish. Like I can’t even describe all the types but it was all the things you hear about. I especially liked the yellow ones. My favorites were this medium sized fish that had zebra type stripes on the front and really cool rainbow type scales on the back. There were also larger fish that some of the photographers were playing with, but they were around 16 feet or more deep so I couldn’t get to them.

I was also lucky enough to see another turtle swim by. This one was much smaller but still an amazing creature. I got to watch a school of fish feeding on the moss type algae and such that grows on the coral surface. They fed in a school and made really interesting noises as they searched the coral with their mouths and by fanning their fins.

I really enjoyed looking at some of the less colorful coral and trying to spot the fish hiding there. And in the other types of coral that had lots of folds. I was surprised how much life was hidden there. I saw a few sea anemones namely concentrated on the sides of the large old coral formations.

Seriously there as so much to see and describe I was just overwhelmed. I was seriously smiling the whole time. An amazing experience I already would like to go back. I feel a tremendous feeling of satisfaction for something I have thought about doing sense I first learned about the GBR back in elementary school. It is wonderful to have a dream come true and I am severely thankful for it. It is something I will surely never forget.

The ride back was a lot choppier than I had expected but there seemed to be less vomiting, at least on my level. So that was nice.

We stopped back by the island resort and picked up about 30 passengers. The ride back treated us to a beautiful sunset with the rays being filtered by the clouds and down to the ocean. Unfortunately my zoom on my camera is broken so I will have to do the best with what I have.

We got back around 5:45 and I decided to go check the volleyball courts. Unfortunately the weather decided to rain so I withdrew some money to cover the remainder of my trip and then headed to get something to eat. I purchased my last kebab at a shop along the waterfront and ate it with a Coke joyfully. I will miss kebabs, but then again burritos are good too.

I then got a ridiculously expensive one scoop waffle cone from BR and sat by the lagoon (that is the pool on the esplanade) and did some thinking. I headed back to the hostel, showered, and just finished packing my backpack a few minutes ago. I have a lot of stuff like usually.

In conclusion though the GBR surpassed even my expectations. I am wonderfully happy with my experience.

Getting up at 3AM to catch a bus to the airport. Flight to Brisbane at 6 AM and then to SYD at 9:45. Arrival at noon. Gonna train to the hostel, pick up my other bag, and do some more fun stuff in city. Flight out the next morning to ATL baby!!!

On a wonderful high and level of contentment,

-Mathias

So today was a very good day especially for a Sunday. I slept much better last night than the prievious 5 days. Still as typical it was a early morning starting at 7. I attempted to sleep til about 8:30 and by that time all but 1 of the 11 other people in the room were gone.

I got up and had my typical breakfast of toast with jam, cheese and water. To be honest it is pretty filling but my body still yearns for the eggs, bacon, and toast breakfast I maintained for a good month before leaving Welly.

Queensland is absolutely gorgeous and this morning was no exception. I only had a few goals for the day, mainly ice/compression for the foot, laying out, and booking my cruise for tomorrow. So I made it to the chemist and bought a bandage, icepack, and some instant icepacks for my foot. I wrapped the ice pack to my foot and set off. I got some weird looks but I chalk it up to being such an attractive guy, rather than the foot.

I walked along the esplanade or the espy as the locals call it towards  the marina to book my cruise for tomorrow. I was also spotting for places to lay out. It is about 2.5 k all the way along the espy and it is filled with exercise equipment, bike trails, anzac memorials, and a kids park. There are also about a dozen cooking stations which are very, very nice.

I made it to one of the fingers and headed out to look at the yachts. They were baller. One had a full size (about 20ft) boat that ran up under the other boat in addition to three jetskies and one skiff. Man the superrich, what a burden. There was also an sailing ship from England that was absolutely gorgeous. Three masts and long as anything. They were sailing to Indonesia tomorrow.

I then headed back, put on some sunscreen, and made my way to the ferry booking offices. I went to the one the nice Americans had recommended in Rotorua but they were full so I went to the next counter. I booked it for tomorrow and am hella excited. They even had a $50 student concession! How awesome is that? BTW the buzzcard needs an expiration date so it can be used as a concession card.

I then headed back to the espy near the large triangle shaped pool and found a spot to lay out in the grass. The locals don’t layout on the artificial beaches along the waterfront because of the bugs. It was nice and there were some good looking girls around so that made it even nicer. I read and generally relaxed myself and my foot for around 3.5 hours.

My foot was feeling much better then as I had determined it was only a severe bruise and the pain medication and compression from last night helped bunches. Sitting here right now it doesn’t hurt. There is a little pain after lots of walking.

But anyways I decided to go play volleyball. Jumped into and played for 4 solid hours. My foot didn’t hurt but I didn’t jump too much anyways. Had some really legit games with some good people so that always helped me get in a good mood. Near the end a light rain came and I decided I was tired. There was a beautiful rainbow that was the most complete I had ever seen (the bottom color was turquoise, which is like seven layers down).

I walked back, ate dinner, and just took a shower. Volleyball always makes my day better. Tonight I am going to work on a scholarship application for Tech, and then maybe just go to bed. This was my relaxing day.

Did I mention Cairns is a hugely internationally city. It seems more likely to hear another language than English. It is pretty cool. Volleyball was with some Estonians (I don’t know where that is), some Italian girls (the few that travel apparently travel here), French, and of course Germans. I had a really good team with another American and two Canadians.

The city really makes me hungry. There are dozens of delicious looking and smelling restaurants, cafes, bars/pubs, and dessert places. Tomorrow is my eat out night so I am going to have a hard time choosing!

The accommodation here is also very cheap due to the high supply, so that is really nice. It’s about 30% cheaper per night compared with the other places I have stayed!

Cairns also has a variety of indoor/outdoor markets and mall type places with food courts. I love me some food court food.

At low tide there are a variety of crabs that can be seen and a lot of locals fish. This seems to be typical of Queensland though.

Anyway looking forward to good weather for my snorkeling adventure tomorrow! And approximately 60 hours til I am home!

Sincerely all the best,

-Mathias

Greetings!

So I didn’t sleep well last night either. I don’t know what it is but I never got to sleep until like 3AM. Even then it was off and on. Maybe it is a change in diet or my body missing home. I don’t really know. I do know there was a guy last night at 4AM whose cigarette smoke coming in through the damn window gave me a major headache.

Got up did breakfast and headed to the train station. The mall I went through last night was closed so I trekked around the building, found the platform and got in line. I decided to buy the skyrail package for a total of $97. The train arrived, I was in the first car and I was excited and surprised to learn that it had open windows. That meant the pictures would be good unlike the Sunlander train.

The train took 2 hours to get to Kuranda. It was a beautiful scenic ride with lots of history. It was exactly what I wanted. When we got off the train I peed, and then headed out on the trails. I started by the river and then went into the Jungle. The farnorth queensland tropical rainforest is something I really wanted to see as the fauna here is some of the oldest relatable on the planet. It stretches back to Gondwanaland.

I finished the 2hr long trails in just over an hour. I was just a little disappointed but they were really good so that made up for it. I then headed into the town which wasn’t what I had expected from the Village in the Forest namesake. I had lunch in a small park off the main street and watched some families play and asian tourists take pictures. I then was looking at going into the butterfly house but realized it cost $17 and looked like a tourist trap.

Instead I started a near 2 hour troll through dozens of shops and markets. If America created consumerism, we are not its only adherents. There was all kinds of foods, goods, and tourist trash. As a management major I really enjoy seeing the different merchandising techniques. But it was a lot of stuff. I stopped a medium sized café after seeing what I thought was a delicious looking cheesecake. It turned out to be a tart but I got a piece anyways. It was blackcurrant  and blueberry and was good as I had never had a tart before.

I then went back to the river for some more random walking and then made my way to the sky rail. It was 2:30. I got in line for the gondolas and then was off. The gondolas were absolutely stunning! The best I have ever been on. The views were just remarkably amazing. Like a helicopter flight. There were three stops with different things on each, 2 boardwalks and an outlook. The entire journey took just over an hour and I finally arrived at the other side. It was well worth it.

I caught the bus that was included in my package back to cairns central and explored through the mall. It was similar to the American malls with a mix of preteens, teens, and moms. It had a Target though, the first one I have seen in months so that was nice.

I then went to the Hostel to do a change out of some things and headed out towards the waterfront. I walked through the city and then down the waterfront which they call the emplenade. I think that is it.

I was looking to either yell my feeling at the sea or to play volleyball. Luckily I found the later. Played some decent games (haven’t touched a sand ball in like 8 months) and then near the end a german guy I was playing with (it was all international people) dove and I fell over him. In doing so I apparently banged my foot against his head or back. It hurts a lot but I am seriously hoping it isn’t a break. I am going to sleep on it and decide. It will get better. Although that means that tomorrow is my free day.

I limped back to the hostel with my makeshift bandage of napkins and duct tape because apparently no in town chemists are open past 5. I can’t wait to get back to fricken 24/7 walgreens or CVS. Or not having to go to a specialists for basic medical supplies. I asked reception if they had ice or bandages. They did not.

So I put on my boots took some damn good advil and went to eat. Soup, toasted bread, cheese, and chocolate. Not bad. Some French girl sat down at the table because she though she knew me. It was kinda an awkward conversation. It wasn’t one of those moments where it felt as though we were supposed to be talking. Ohh well.

Just took a shower and know I am planning to sleep well. Gotta book my snorkeling trip to the barrier reef and such tomorrow or tonight. I would have liked to go tomorrow but ohh well. There is probably a lesson in this.

Anywho lets hope for the best that this foot thing is just a tough bruise.

All the best!

-Mathias

Ahoy!

I do love being close to the water and if I had my own boat I could legitimately yell that. Anywho today was a travel day. I got up early, mainly because I couldn’t get back to sleep, ate breakfast, packed and then headed out for the bus stop after checking out.

It took a long time for the bus to come and when it did it was a small one. The people leaving from our stop basically filled up a good 80% of the bus with people and luggage. I had to sit with my backpack on my lap and my bags on the floor under my feet. It was tight but ohh well. Made the ferry, headed across with no problems and arrived back in Townsville.

I set out in the wonderful weather (seriously it was beautiful) and since my GPS couldn’t locate the train station I walked it by memory from the Taxi Ride I had taken a few days earlier. I am pretty gifted when it comes to directions. I made the moderately stressful 4.5k walk with my luggage and arrived.

This weekend in Townsville is a car race. So there was a lot of activity. The race track ran within 100m of the railway station so everything was messed up. Upon arrival I was ticketed twice within 100ft and finally got to a place where I could put my bags down. Unfortunately I talked to an attendant who told me I couldn’t check them in for another 30 minutes nor could I leave them anyware as unattended baggage.

TBH I have dealt with this before. Thus I looked for a station manager, found one, and told him my quick story. He let me store my bags in the main office. I then headed off for the restaurant (the only close food), bar and hotel a few hundred feet from the station.

I got inside and was greeted by a barmaid. It was about 10:40 so the kitchen wasn’t open yet, but they cooked it special for me. I had some time of good beef burger and chips. It was really good. Apparently in AUS the burgers are served with beets.

I then headed back to the station and waited the next 20 minutes for the train. I boarded found my aisle seat (sigh, in the future I’ll spend the money and call for the seating). The train ride was through the essence of coastal queensland, sugarcane farms and forested hills and mountains. It was pretty but not absolutely scenic.

I read, wrote a little, napped, listened to music, and watched some scrubs. It was a normal train trip. Funny how quickly you get adjusted to it.

I arrived in Cairns, snapped a few pictures of the train, collected my baggage and headed towards where I thought the Hostel was through this mall building called Cairns central. Found the hostel, checked in, and went searching for a grocery store. I was plum out of food I could eat.

Walked through the city looking for a supermarket and it took me awhile (45 minutes) to find one. The Woolworths looked like shit but it was being remodeled so I kinda understand.

Cairns is a cool city and I will write more tomorrow when it is earlier. There is a lot of activity and a lot going on, so kinda the opposite of places I normally like to go. But it is good to get a mix, eh.

Anyways all is good, I’m safe and still a little sunburnt.

5 more days til home. Sheesh!

With Love,

-Mathias

Oi!

Today was a beautiful day. Got up this morning a few minutes to nine and had a nice quiet breakfast. It was just absolutely gorgeous out. I came back packed and headed out for the morning.

I had originally planned to do a little snorkeling for the day but a variety of factors came into my decision not to. For one the rental price was a little higher than I wanted to pay, $20. Second I was a still a little sore from yesterday. And most importantly my conscious told me to take a day and just relax. So I did.

I headed off to Radical Bay and crossed back over the saddle ridge I had crossed last night. It was much prettier in the day time. There were a lot of areas where controlled burns had gone on and the colors on the trees leaves were various stages of yellow, orange, and red. It was a pretty walk.

I plopped myself down in the sand with my towel and book and just relaxed for a few hours. I got hot and went into the water and saw a stingray and what I thought to be some sort of watersnake. I really didn’t like the snake. After going in the water I went to the end of the beach and did some exploring on the rocks. This was really fun, trying to get up and down and around the rocks. As I have said before I very much enjoy this.

I then went back to my spot and took a nice nap and occasionally awoke to do some people watching. Lots of old folks, couples, and families. After I got hot I went and walked in the water a little more and then climbed on the rocks on the other side of the bay. That was also fun.

I went back and layed out for another 10 or so minutes before deciding to move over to the next bay. I gathered my things and headed out. I already knew the trail so it wasn’t too hard to get there. I also had almost run out of water and was looking forward to freshwater at this next bay. Unfortunately I found that it was nonpotable rain water. That was disappointing.

I continued laying out and reading and explored some more rocks. I also got a good picture of a sting ray! Well good is relative, at least you can kinda see it. It was about 4:30 so I figured I should head back before sunset.

I got back into Horshoe Bay and paid an extravagant sum of money for two scoops of ice cream in a waffle cone. I sat on the beach watching the sun set and enjoying my ice cream. It was nice as there were lots of families out barbequing at the little park off the beach. The older folks seemed very happy as well. It was kinda neat because the old folks were on the swings and the kids were sitting at the table.

I then walked down the beach towards the end. The sunset and I sat talking and reflecting to myself for 45 minutes. Those are always good times as the beach is definitely my happy place. On my way back to the hostel around 6:45 I saw what I thought to be bioluminescent plankton. I can’t be sure but they were definitely glowing.

I got back and had some chili with cheese and toast. I really like these precooked meal as they are good and really easy. It is probably not the best, but I think I’m going to settle for the remaining 5 dinners.

I think Magnetic Island is the closest thing to an Island paradise I have ever been. The weather is gorgeous. The sunset had this magnificent red color that was extinguished quickly, kinda like the flame from a torch. On a clear night like tonight I can look up and see tons of stars. As well there is an abundance of wildlife and the fauna with the green trees and granite rock outcrops is gorgeous. I am really fortunate to have travelled here.

Another thing I have noticed throughout the trip but for some reason today especially is that other people are travelling alone as well. I know of course that lots of people travel solo but It is nice to be see a few others in a similar boat after all of the couples and groups. I thought I had more to say on this but I think I’m done.

I got a little burnt today. Aus sunscreen is not American sunscreen. Ohh well hot shower should do the trick.

Tomorrow I am off to Cairns (pronounced Caanns, don’t ask me why) for three nights. I’m catching the train up there tomorrow at noon till 8. I am staying in a 12 person share room in Cairns so that should be an experience. The largest I had stayed in till now is 8 so I figured I would give it a try. And it was cheap only $20 a night.

I thought I had more to say but that is it. The sun really takes the energy out of you but mentally and spiritually I am feeling pretty good.

Until Tommorrow,

-Mathias

Happy Wednesday!

Today was a long day! Long in a good day! Found out my roommates last night were brother and sister so that was good. Sometimes couples can be a bit awkward. Got to sleep alright but didn’t sleep very well overall. There were some interesting noises from the animals in the adjacent forest. They probably didn’t help any! It continued to rain overnight.

I got up about 8:05, got dressed and headed for breakfast. I thought it was going to be cloudy and yucky when I first looked out but the sky at that point looked beautiful. I had two pieces of cheese and 2 pieces of toast with jam for breakfast. It was quiet during breakfast as a lot of people don’t get up that early. I listened in to a conversation between another middle class American student and an older kiwi gentleman.

I was surprised out how similar we are as Americans. He gave out very similar stock answers and responded as I predicted he would. Just kinda made me think again about how I talk to other people. Also spell check in word won’t accept kinda as a legit word.

After breakfast I headed for the bus stop. I bought a daytripper for 6.60 with a destination of Picnic Bay. By this point the skies weren’t looking too good but far be it for a little rain to stop me. After all I have lived in Wellington for awhile!

The bus ride took a fairly long time, but then again I was going from one end of the Island to the other. There were lots of stops but I got to see where the locals lived and where the other hostels were. I got off the bus at Picnic Bay, the spot on the island closest to the mainland. I walked out on the wharf and watched the families fishing. The sky still looked threatening.

I started off for West Point which is a little over 8k from Picnic Bay one way. On my way out to the trail I stopped by the golf club restaurant and got a garbage bag to use as a makeshift poncho if it rained really hard. The inside said I might like the rain to cool me off from the walk.

Apparently this was more of a road than a trail. No matter, the first 3k were sealed with a coral base. The next 5k were dirt road. About 10 minutes in it started raining. I cut out my garbage bag poncho but sense it was only raining a little bit I just stored it. The rain actually was refreshing.

The walk was really nice. It was along the undeveloped west end of the island. There were lots of mangrove forests, salt tolerant grassland, and a variety of trees. There were a few homes along the way as well and most of the property out that way is privately held. I also passed the water treatment and storage facilities. Along the way I saw and listened to lots of birds, including a white cockatoo. It was a long walk however and by the time I got to the nice beach at the end I was ready to be there.

As soon as I got off the road, there was a couple on the beach. I was like seriously I walked all this way and there are people here. Luckily they were nice and just kept walking. I waited a bit behind examining the intertidal zone and admiring the view. I made my way down to the end and found a family fishing. I continued down to the rocks near the end and sat down to read and eat my lunch.

After lunch I started the long walk back. It was good though, it gave me a lot of time to think. I also saw something that resembled a porcupine or an armadillo. I was able to get really close and take pictures! It was neat! I also saw another small kangaroo which I now know are rock wallabies. After walking for a long time (it was 8k back) I filled up my water bottle and hopped on the just arrived bus to the Forts.

The bus ride was uneventful. I listened to some teenagers talking. One had a really obnoxious voice. As well the bus smelled heavily of sweet sweat, the Aussies apparently don’t mind BO. I got off after about a 25 minutes bus ride and headed onto the next trail. The forts is a serious of WWII buildings that were part of a defense network setup on the island. The walk was good, but some of the signs didn’t display information and were in need of replacing. I clambered up to some rocks off the trail for a good look out. I also discovered that one of my pens had leaked and gotten on my wallet and both of my apples. Thus my snack was out of luck.

I continued up towards the outlooks which was quite fun. The original stairs were mainly made of slightly altered stones and were fun to climb. The views were good as well. I reached the top and took a look from the old communications tower which is now in use for modern communication. The views were amazing! I got some pictures and a video. I then climbed down towards the gun emplacements, which were very much intact and looped back to the start.

Also along the way I saw  two Koala bears in the trees! It is way more fun to see animals in the wild! So I got my wild koalas checked off my list. The sleep for up to 20 hours a day because their diet is so poor.

After getting back to the trailhead I decided to take the long loop back to horseshoe bay along the other 4 bays. The beginning of the trail was paved and the beaches I passed over were very nice. I’m going to spend tomorrow beach/bay hopping. It was getting late and by the time I had gotten to the last 2k back to Horseshoe bay (where the Hostel is) it was very dark. I found it a little hard to see distances in between the rocks as I had to ascend and descend a ridge to get back.

When I normally need to make noise or just feel like it I see the Tech fight songs, Up with the White and Gold and Ramblin’ Wreck. I sun those as I walked back to make noise.

I got back fine but had to cross a tidal creek to get back. Being close to high tide it came all the way within 5 inches of my waste. So the bottom part of my shorts and underwear got wet. Ohh well. I walked back barefoot and got back fine.

It was a long day of close to 30k of walking. I was proud of my body for keeping up! In the middle of writing this blog I had dinner, canned Ravioli with Toast and Cheese. After today and for the effort required it was delicious!

Magnetic Island is kinda what I thought Stewart Island would be like in New Zealand. I have really enjoyed getting to see the wild animals and birds in their natural habitat. Maybe SI is like that in the summer?

As well I love the tropical heat. This place is very close to my definition of paradise. They get well over 300 sunny days in the year and plenty of sand and water for everyone. As well the granite, mountainous backdrop with trees is gorgeous. Kinda like a better version of Florida! Although that is really comparing apples and oranges. I am really glad I chose to stay here.

Tomorrow as I alluded to I intend to spend on the beaches. I think I may rent some snorkeling gear and check out some of the bays as well. Hopefully the weather will cooperate!

As for now I am deciding between going to the beach or shower and bed. Both sound good but I think my tired body is going to win out on this one!

With Love,

-Mathias

Greetings,

So last night I left the internet café. Everything went well there. I got back to the Hostel after stopping for an ice cream cone. I had spearmint with chocolate chips. It was good. After I got back I took a shower, talked to the other roommates, watched a little TV, and as soon as my head hit the pillow I was out. Even with the lights and tv on. I was seriously tired after not getting good REM sleep on the train.

I got up this morning at around 8 AM. I had packed most of my stuff last night so this morning was easy. I had breakfast consisting of two pieces of buttered toast, an apple, and a slice of cheese. It was good!

I then collected my bags and checked out. The walk to the ferry terminal wasn’t that far, only about ten minutes but I had lots of stuff. The ferry company didn’t accept my NZ Student ID as valid so I had to pay full adult price. I’m going to write them an e-mail. I got on the boat and got to talking with two older ladies from Wellington and another German exchange student. The conversation was good enough, jokes about Wellington weather and what not. The boat ride was quick enough and it was slightly overcast.

The other exchange girl was travelling alone as well and so we decided to hang out for a few hours until she had a horseback tour. Her name was Julie. I got my bags and we boarded the bus to go to horseshoe bay on the other side of the island (about 7k). It was cheap too only $2.60. I honestly expected to be taken to the cleaners but it was reasonable considering they are the only bus company on the island.

I checked in at the hostel, put my excessive J baggage in my room and then we headed off for the beach. The beach is a quick 5 minutes away from the hostel. Just simple amazing. I had apparently left my sunscreen back in Townsville and so I had to buy some. At a costly price of $11. That’s where they get ya! We headed off down the beach and sat down for sunbathing and had a good chat.

After laying out for awhile we were gonna head back to town to get something to eat, but I had to wash the sand off of me. I got in the water and it was cold. So I decided just to wash off rather than go fully in. We had a nice lunch at the outside seating area of a bar. I had a decent grilled chicken sandwich with chips. I have never had beets on a chicken sandwich before. More good conversation over lunch. I really am glad I included that section in my mission statement about learning about others.

After lunch it was about time for her to leave for the horseback riding thing so we said goodbye after she picked up her phone which had been charging in my room.

After that I headed down to the beach for some additional reading and sunbathing. Actually before getting to the beach I took a quick detour through the I then headed for the Horseshoe bay beach.

I have to say this was a good call by me. The island feels like a secluded tropical paradise. Coral washes up on the beaches and there are birds chirping and calling everywhere. Even the tropical queensland parrots. There is only a few house along the waterfront (probably no more than 14) and 4 or so restaurants and 2 small general stores. Just simply breathtakingly beautiful and remote.

I sat out and sunbathed for a good 3 hours. I got in the water once to cool off. I decided not to dry off and was naturally dried by the sun. What a feeling! Just so relaxing. I watched the people come and go in between napping and reading. I really could not ask for a better day. There also seem to be no mosquitoes or sand flies here.

After sunbathing I went for a walk down the rocky side of the beach (the east end I believe) and was hoping to catch some great pics of the sunset. Unfortunately some clouds came in and ruined my shots. Not to worry I had fun climbing over the rocks. I have found that always brings me some childhood excitement. It is like solving a puzzle; jumping and climbing from rock to rock. I think that is my first legitimate use of a colon in like forever.

I continued back along the beach searching the shells and coral. I found a sand dollar with a unique imprint but I accidently crushed it in my bag. On the way back while crossing through some shallow intertidal zones I saw a sting ray. Right there not 2 feet away from me! How amazing it was to see one in it’s natural habitat! Also on the way back I saw a fairly homely looking guy with a good looking and scantaly clad latina woman on the beach. The view wasn’t bad but I couldn’t figure out what they were doing. He was just kinda taking pictures of scenery and she was sorta standing there. Ohh well.

I continued down the beach and watched the people fishing. I saw some people playing in the last light and some people taking their dingy’s out to their boats. I continued walking way down to the other end of the beach and I made it 3/4ths of the way to the end (this was a long walk) and then took a seat and did some more soul searching.

The beach really is my happy place and a great place of spiritual renewal. I have not found a better place to help center and listen to myself than alone on the beach. Listening to the surf and wildlife. Just taking it all in. My listening went well and I am confident that because my next 7 days are near the beach I will be doing that most nights, weather permitting.

I got back to the Hostel around 7. I paid a deposit for dishes and began to cook. I’m not gonna lie dinner is one of the hardest times of the day to be alone. Mainly because that is when a lot of other groups are together cooking and eating. I am a confident and friendly person but even I bode a little to feeling a little lonely. I made a yummy mac and cheese with toast and enjoyed it.

I just got to writing this a few minutes ago after using the bathroom. It just started raining so I brought mine and my roommates towels and clothes in. Not terrible hard but uncomfortable to be outside in.

Btw I haven’t explained the hostel. There are something like 30 individual a-frame bungalows! It’s like being at a nice summer camp. There is also a green space in the middle reserved for camping. I am in a three bed sharing with a couple. The ends and walls are open air and have screens on them to keep out bugs, opossums, and ants. BTW there are opossums just kinda hanging out around the area. It’s quite neat.

I think I had mentioned this before but I occasionally have premonitions. The last one I had occurred on the train trip to Christchurch. This one I did not recognize until today just a few minute ago when I was closing the door to the bungalow. I remember when I originally saw it (at the beginning of June) and I wondered where it is. I don’t know where they come from or signify but that feeling of déjà vu is powerful. I wonder what my next one will be.

On another note, I got my final Vic grades back. Two a plusses, one a minus and a B. That marks the first B I have gotten sense seventh grade. But luckily the grade doesn’t go towards my Tech GPA so I still have my perfect 4.0. I’m not really disappointed in myself for that B as I think I was misgraded on an assignment that was never returned. That might sound nitpicky and if you know me than you know I am fierce about my grades, but honestly I feel I deserved higher. Ohh well I am putting it out of my mind because it doesn’t really count and thus I shouldn’t spend time worrying about it. An older version of me might have taken it worse, and the current me Is still a little upset about it but I’ll get over it. I’ll be back to my A game this fall.

These blogs get longer and longer. I think it is because I finally understand the high value that they give me. Anyway I have 7 more days here in Australia and I plan on enjoying the hell out of each and every moment.

Probably thought about you today on the beach,

-Mathias

Hello!

So after I wrote last night we stopped again at a town called Rockhampton. It was one of the stops I had originally considered when travelling Queensland but later reconsidered after reading the Wiki page. We had a good break but after I came back I was disappointed to find someone in the seat that was next to mine. As well I was ticketed to the aisle seat so he got the window seat.

As well after last night but before the aforementioned Australian guy sat next to me I had decent conversation with a 17 year old sitting across the aisle from me. He was going to visit his dad on school holidays. That is the reason there were so many kids on the bus.

The guy sitting next to me was a true Australian. Thick accent and worked on a cattle farm putting up fences as well as a variety of other jobs. We had interesting conversations between the three of us. Me not getting a lot of the Aussie humour and to be honest I was kinda getting annoyed. I seem to meet a lot of people in life who have no real direction, goals, plans in their life. I am looking forward to being back among some like minded people.

However I reminded myself that a good portion of all travelling and life in general was to learn about others so I talked and asked questions. The guy apparently had two kids in Denmark with his ex-partner who he hadn’t seen in 2 years. He was a trained chef by profession but also worked putting up steel cattle fences, working rodeos, and other odd jobs. He decided just last night to go to Magnetic Island for a few days.

I got to sleep alright and slept pretty well until something woke me up. I don’t remember what in the middle of the night and I was up for about 20 minutes. I got back to sleep but the train car as a whole basically got up at 6:40. I really can’t complain too much.

I had my breakfast of this liquid WeetBix stuff, an apples, and a piece of toast with Jam. I talked with the Aussie for awhile until out stop came at 8:30. It was a long couple of hours.

Upon stopping I talked to the aforementioned Mark again and I watched his bags while he went to use the bathroom. We then both collected out bags and he was going to take the cab into the city. Not really wanting to walk and seeing an opportunity we split the cab ride. (Mark is here visiting his 23 yr old son and his wife was flying in today from Adelaide (west of Melbourne)) I found the Hostel easy enough and checked in.

There really is nothing like a shit shower and shave. I had all three and felt better. I changed into my warm weather gear: shorts, sandals, and a t-shirt and then proceeded to go to the information site.

I got some information there. Interestingly they had a special ed teenager working there who was trying to provide help. I kinda felt bad but at the same time I wasn’t going to get wrapped up in a long term discussion with him. So I waited for the other employee to help me and she did.

I then proceeded to walk towards the Casino along the Marina and then sat on the breakwater and read my information I got. I then walked back and strolled through the ANZAC Park and memorial and then proceeded down the strand.

The day was gorgeous and the strand was full of people as it was a national holiday today (I never found out what for). There were lots of families and couples and friends. There were multiple beach areas, pools, a small waterpark for kids, restaurants, and I even found a sand volleyball net. It was too windy to play for real and no one was out there. I do aim to play at least once before the end of this trip.

I walked back along the sand and water. It was cold water and I didn’t have sunscreen on. I noticed later that I got a pretty good burn on my neck and face.

I was deciding between going back and lying on the beach or going to the Museum of tropical Queensland. I decided to go to the Museum as I had the next few days to relax on the beach. The museum was nice(they charged my iPhone for me) and had some really cool information about the wreck of the HMS Pandora. It was the ship that was sent to look for the HMS Bounty after the mutiny. The museum was a lot shorter than what I thought. I did the ENTIRE museum (I read pretty much everything) in just about two hours.  It was worth it though.

I also on the way back from the Strand stopped at the grocery store to pick up some food. Just thought you might like to know.

After the museum I took a nice walk around town and sat again on the breakers overlooking the Marina. Just kinda the typical.

There are a fair number of aborigines in this town and I don’t think I like them. They are fairly dirty people and they seem to harass others. They also travel in packs around the city. I am not sure if they are on the dole or what but they seem lazy. They smell bad as well. I was harassed by two of them alone today and watched one take somebody else’s cigarette. I have now learned to stay away from them.

As another side not the room I am checked into for the night is a worker’s room. That is the people who are working for the hostel in exchange for free accomadation. They normally have to clean or cook and rotate schedules. I could tell due to the high amount of stuff and the long term hygiene items in the bathroom (a huge thing of shampoo). Once again I just kinda miss the motivation and goals of home.

I am having a great time in Australia to be honest. I do enjoy travelling it just seems to get harder and harder to be alone with my thoughts all the time. I regained back the old habit of mine of talking to strangers without regards. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. So that is good and gets my spirits up a little bit. But seriously just hanging out and talking to people who know me is what I miss the most. And I know I have covered this topic before, probably multiple times to be fair, but it is just reinforced a lot during my down time. And my brain can only think up so many solutions or conversations for itself.

Anyways tomorrow’s plans hopefully involve going to magnetic island for the next few days. I don’t have any big things planned but there is a lot to do there from what I can tell. I have learned as well that I can deal with some downtime but I do need anchors of things to do in the cities I travel to. I can fill in the gaps with spontaneity but I need something concrete to get excited about. (Update: Just booked my rooms in Magnetic Island for the next three nights. Now to just find some things to do!)

BTW writing this from the Veranda at the hostel overlooking the main street and the river. Quite nice actually. The hostel itself is average. The kitchen is open air!

Anyways until next time,

-Mathias

Hey Readers, Family, Friends, Troller,

So I had a lot of time to think and write on the train. That is why there are so many blogs from it. All in all I think it is just over 6000 words. So a big chunk of my mind and thoughts. Anyways I know it will take you a little while to digest it all. So enjoy!

-Mathias

Hello,

I have really realized in the past few days that I right these blogs more for my benefit than for anyone else’s. I guess the final realization of that near the end of my journey in NZ had spurred the impetus to continue to right daily. It is tough but definitely worth it.

I look forward to looking back in a few months time and remembering the places, experiences and feelings I have written about. And even one day I greatly look forward to sharing those thoughts and experiences with my kids.

I know for sure that I want kids at some point in my life. Will definitely add that as a 15 year goal.

And the thing is I really am only 19 years old. That is what I discard all the time. I definentely find my self comparing, learning from, and meeting people who are older than me. I guess that is because I want to take their knowledge of the past few years and help me learn and grow at this stage in my life. And to be honest I think it is working.

It also has something to do with my parents being older. I have never really considered age as a limiting factor in life. More of how you live than how long you’ve lived. For that I am thankful.

I often wonder whether it is harder being a man or a woman in life. I have currently come to a conclusion (I change my viewpoints as I grow and learn) that neither is harder as they aren’t comparable. I really feel like my viewpoint was solidified when thinking about whether or not it was easier for women to have closer and more meaningful relationships than men. I first thought that girls had the advantage as they are by nature inclined to forming groups and thus friendship, the fact that guys also biologically need relationships with women (IMO more so then women-men), and that they are generally less socially molded to be independent.

At the end of that thought train I went back and thought how outrageous those ideas were. There is simply no way to compare the diffuclty of being either as they are completely separate roles. This thought really confirmed what I have been taught and read about that sometimes the third or alternate conclusion is the right one.

Anyways those are my current thoughts. I seriously can’t wait to get back and have conversations with people who get and mean a lot to me. Then I can stop talking and thinking with myself so much. J Although following the principle that the most personal things are also the most universal, I’m pretty damn sure most people talk to themselves. In fact the other guy in my room this morning talked to himself while he packed.

Because I am absolutely sure your enjoying my thoughts as much as I do,

-Mathias

Hello,

I have really realized in the past few days that I right these blogs more for my benefit than for anyone else’s. I guess the final realization of that near the end of my journey in NZ had spurred the impetus to continue to right daily. It is tough but definitely worth it.

I look forward to looking back in a few months time and remembering the places, experiences and feelings I have written about. And even one day I greatly look forward to sharing those thoughts and experiences with my kids.

I know for sure that I want kids at some point in my life. Will definitely add that as a 15 year goal.

And the thing is I really am only 19 years old. That is what I discard all the time. I definentely find my self comparing, learning from, and meeting people who are older than me. I guess that is because I want to take their knowledge of the past few years and help me learn and grow at this stage in my life. And to be honest I think it is working.

It also has something to do with my parents being older. I have never really considered age as a limiting factor in life. More of how you live than how long you’ve lived. For that I am thankful.

I often wonder whether it is harder being a man or a woman in life. I have currently come to a conclusion (I change my viewpoints as I grow and learn) that neither is harder as they aren’t comparable. I really feel like my viewpoint was solidified when thinking about whether or not it was easier for women to have closer and more meaningful relationships than men. I first thought that girls had the advantage as they are by nature inclined to forming groups and thus friendship, the fact that guys also biologically need relationships with women (IMO more so then women-men), and that they are generally less socially molded to be independent.

At the end of that thought train I went back and thought how outrageous those ideas were. There is simply no way to compare the diffuclty of being either as they are completely separate roles. This thought really confirmed what I have been taught and read about that sometimes the third or alternate conclusion is the right one.

Anyways those are my current thoughts. I seriously can’t wait to get back and have conversations with people who get and mean a lot to me. Then I can stop talking and thinking with myself so much. J Although following the principle that the most personal things are also the most universal, I’m pretty damn sure most people talk to themselves. In fact the other guy in my room this morning talked to himself while he packed.

Because I am absolutely sure your enjoying my thoughts as much as I do,

-Mathias

Hello,

I think it is funny when we notice people noticing us. I don’t know what happened but I have found myself being more aware of other people’s glances and looks from afar. Hell I don’t know if I can write a whole blog on this but I am sure I’ll come up with a few topics.

I am not sure if other people notice my looks at them, I look at a lot of the people normally in the face. I read somewhere that the human mind picks up being looked at most of the time. I guess that is why you can look at someone in a bus or vice-versa and they will often turn their head to return the look. I guess I really noticed it again last night on the train (yes I am still writing and yes I am on the train, I need something mentally stimulating to do). Their was a fair looking readhead who I think was 2 years older than me sitting across the aisle. Being my observant self (I like to listen to other’s conversations, but who doesn’t) she was travelling with her mother. It might have had something to do with the glass as well but I often caught her looking at me.

I don’t know if it was something about being on the train or if I smelled or something but I also caught lots of looks from other people. I have noticed it on the normal train too on the way to the blue mountains.

I don’t really know what to make of it from my POV. Maybe it is just some mental note I had been trashing all these years or maybe it is something about me. I would like to think it is the second one. Maybe an increased confidence in myself? Geez that is an ego boosting statement eh?

But anyways I am very thankful to Ross for solving the problem of what I thought was my appendix. He informed me that when I am exercising, namely tramping, the body shuts down the blood flow to the stomach in favor of the muscles. Thus if you eat something high in fat or protein, or especially a combination of the two, it just sticks in your stomach because it has no way to deliver the nutrients to your body.

That was the cause of the pain I have felt in my stomach. I will still get it checked out but I am relieved to find that it probably is dietary. That is what I had expected after all. He also helped by showing me the locations of a few organs so that was kind of neat.

I think one of the hardest things in life I am going to have to get over in order to be a better person is to stop comparing others to myself or reverse. I think I have always used it to justify my position or choices in life. But as I continue to read it can be a negative paradigm in which to view others. It might also lead to conscious alienation or judgment of that person. I am working harder to reduce the amount of unnecessary judgment I do but I also think it is important for myself in a competitive aspect to compare myself to others. Maybe one day I won’t need that but right now I am able to leverage that as a motivation to improve my own skills in some way.

I think one of the most fun things in life is finding someone that is better than you. Of course better than you is a subjective term and is completely based on arbitrary bounds but I think most people could relate to that situation. That is one thing that I feel I have really learned from my trip. In two fields especially, social and volleyball.

I’ll start with volleyball because I like it better and because sports analogies are relatable. It is always good to play against people who are more athletically or technically skilled than you as it allows you to learn from their form. Especially if it is a perfected technique that can be passed. I think the best and most thankful asset I picked up in NZ Volleyball was passing. Keith, an older guy who I played with on Thursdays, I quickly assessed as a dynamite passer. Don’t get me wrong he is an amazing overall player but his passing was always consistent. I was fortunate enough for him to help me out and give me some pointers. Mainly to get behind the ball, use a wider feet stance, be quicker on the ball, and to aim where I am passing. It definitely helped improve my successful passes and I am thankful for that.

The other bigger issue, although Volleyball is a huge issue J, is socially. I was very surprised at the range of social attitudes I encountered as well as the variety of personalities. I think the most important thing I learned was to include people in my life. I will have to be proactive. People want to meet others and have fun but they don’t always want to make the initial move. In the future I will have to be more proactive in planning things, inviting people to join even the mundane things in life, and being fun and open.

I guess the paradigm behind those attitudes is a big deal as well. One paradigm would be to see these other people I am trying to include in my life as resources to be used to further my gain in some way. I have definitely been guilty of this viewpoint with various people. The other paradigm is that it is better to have people involved in your life. I don’t think that is the complete paradigm but it is where I am at now in my understanding. Only through living differently will I be able to learn more. But I have now seen people who lived better socially than me and I liked their outcomes. And thus I want and I will incorporate those outcomes in my life.

All the best,

-Mathias

The funny thing is I’ve saved all of these blog posts under completely different names, so apparently I haven’t found a naming structure I like. I writing this from the Club Car because the children sitting in front of me reclined the seats which makes it impossible to type.

Last night on the train was interesting. It was so stinking hot that I changed down to my base t-shirt and rolled up the pants legs on my track pants. At about 8:30 PM a kid on our train car threw up on himself and down the aisleway a bit. Needless to say it stunk. The attendants did a good enough job cleaning it up but they used a very potent cleaner with some Lysol. If you know me well then you might also know that Lysol gives me headaches. So that wasn’t very helpful.

About 10 minutes later I smelled a bit of cigarette smoke. It was at that time as well that the aircon cut off. Some idiot who was IMO drunk was smoking in the bathroom. This sets off an alarm, much like on an aircraft and shuts down the cars air con system. It was about 30 minutes after that when the train staff realized it wasn’t the best idea to be keeping up in a hot vomit furnace so they worked on getting the aircon actually working. After flicking the lights on and off in attempting to restart it (They were turned off to allow us to sleep) they got it working.

They proceeded to put the aircon on at full blast and subsequently I was forced to change back into warm clothes. I laid across the seat until I was awoken later when another passenger was picked up. I slept alright. At about 3 AM the lights flickered on and everyone awoke. We were about 20 minutes from our destination in Casino and there was a lot of activity. I got all of my things together and waited to deboard.

I could describe this method as controlled pandemonium. There were originally 5 coaches, 3 bound for Brisbane and 2 others making the normally scheduled local connections. There was a rush for the Brisbane buses as that is where most of the people were going. I hung back knowing that none of these buses would leave until the checked baggage was transferred. I also hung back because the number of people that were smoking in the relatively still air was shocking to me. I am allergic and it gave me a massive headache.

A sixth coach showed up not 5 minutes later, I was originally skeptical how all of us people were going to fit onto 5 coaches. I boarded and went to sleep. I remember that we stopped once to help another bus with a mechanical problem which was just code for a driver smoke break. Seriously these people love their smokes. I slept well on the bus. I woke up as we were arriving into Brisbane. It seemed like a normal city with a few standard skyscrapers and a highway. I collected my checked baggage which was incidentally loaded on my bus and headed into the large transit center.

As usual when heading into a new building I was a little disoriented. It took me a good 5 or so minutes to find the sign directing me to trains on the bottom floor. I went down and was directed by an attendant to platform 10, I made my way down to platform 10 and was surprised to find everything closed. I went to use the bathroom and finally the luggage center opened.  I checked my bag and went to go get a seat.

After the ticket counter wasn’t opened for 10 minutes (it was scheduled to open at 7, it was 7:45) I was directed by an attendant to go and get some breakfast. I went and got some Macca’s (McDonald’s) and had a delicious breakfast wrap with orange juice for $6. I then used the restroom and was depressed by the signs.

I boarded the train and dropped off my bags after getting my seat number. I then stretched a fair bit and finally sat down. I was impressed with the seats as they had more room than the previous train’s seats.

We set off and soon the train filled up. From here it got less fun. Luckily I didn’t have anyone sitting next to me and still don’t. (Crosses fingers) However this is made up for the one mother with 5 children sitting directly in front of me in addition to another group of 6 children a few seats back and a few others spread throughout the train. I don’t dislike children but they make a lot of noise and the mother ahead of me isn’t a good one.

I think they are an aborigine descent in some way. The mother and father are divorced. The mother is fairly heavy and doesn’t seem like that great of a mother. The 5 kids are loud and obnoxious and constantly seeking attention. It has made for a mind numbing day. Seriously if you are going to have kids be responsible with them. It’s rude to let them impact so many other people journeys.

I’ve been talking to an older fellow (early 50’s) throughout parts of the trip. I took a break from the Hell Car (the one with the damn kids in it) and sat in the buffet car for about 2 hours. Had good conversations with him, the usual ya know.

I had a pie to eat on the train and it was okay. Not the best. I have also been surprised at the number of black people that have been on this train. It is the most I have seen sense I left Atlanta.

Another interesting part of the journey has been the game chick or dude. It’s kinda a fun game to play, but it can get a bit disturbing. I’ve played it with myself a good 3 times on this one trip alone. Not a good sign.

Anyways currently the sun is setting. It is warmer here in Queensland so I am looking forward to tomorrow. Hopefully I’ll get to spend some time sitting on the beach. I am currently being treated to a wonderful smell of cheap perfume, bo from the girl sitting 2 down from me(in addition to at least two others in this car), and some interesting smells coming from the club car kitchen.

Please don’t think I sound entirely negative. I think I wrote it in this context because to be honest it wasn’t what I was expecting. I had been spoiled a bit by the KiwiRail journeys with their quietness and best of all their viewing platform. This train mainly intends to serve locals so it has been nice to see how Aussies live and interact.

As many of you probably know I also like experiencing new things. Especially social situations and learning new dynamics/phrases/etc. So for that this has been rather enlightening.

I hope to sleep well tonight. The middle armrest does not retract so it will definitely be in some sort of sitting up position. The sun I fully set now and I only see a little darkness through the trees.

Until later,

-Mathias

So I am reading Stephen Covey’s Book First Things First. Basically the story behind his progression of books goes 7 Habits, First Things First, Examples of 7 Habits, and the Eighth Habit. I read them in the order of 7 Habits, 8^th Habit, Examples (Highly redundant as most had been incorporated in my revised version of 7 Habits) and now First Things First.

This book has dealt with how to handle and set priorities for actions in our life. It focuses on Habit 3 of the private victory which is put First Things First. In it as before covey prompts us to access our roles in life and envision what we would like people to see us as at our anniversary or funeral. It aims to help us begin with the end in mine and further define out mission.

This is probably one of the toughest things for me to do. I think it is mainly because I don’t want to face the difference between how I want people to see me and how I actually act. I am sure another aspect of this has to do with the fact that I am not sure that if I identify the person who I want to be that I will be able to achieve that goal. I am confident I could achieve the goal it is just that I don’t know if I am ready to put in that effort.

That is a terrible statement to make but I think it is very true. On my last night in Wellington I was given a great pep talk by Ross. I call it a pep talk not in a you can do it type but more in this is the change I have seen in you and what I see in your future. It is weird how much those conversations can affect me. When I need them the most, which seems to be every 3-4 months or so, they revitalize my spirit and remind me what life is all about. So I am very thankful for that because I spend a lot of time with myself and I can’t always determine how or if I am growing.

My dad has provided me with most of these speeches and impressions of wisdom throughout my life. And to be honest I am really looking forward to having dinner with him my first night home. I guess it is the way he is so honest that really makes it hit home. And his advice normally takes multiple factors into account that I haven’t even considered. To top it off he is usually right.

But I digress as my mind often does. But such is life, correct. I am know going to do my best to identify at least 2 roles in my life and then set what I would like people to see in me.

Friend: I want to be seen as a fun, caring, dependable, trustworthy, genuine friend. I want to involve other people in my life and continue to learn and meet different people.

Student: I want to be seen as a challenging, critical thinking student who appreciates the detail and its relation to the whole. I want to be seen as making a positive impact in multiple areas of student life both inside and outside of the classroom.

Employee: I want to position myself to be successful in a rewarding career in a field of my choosing.

Son: I want to be honest, loving, and thankful. A reflection of the hard work my parents have put in to raising me.

Brother: I want to be dependable, loving, and concerned.

I write these not to break down my life into little parts but to provide perspectives and paradigms in which to evaluate and live a balanced life. That actually turned out to be a little easier than I thought. The power of the human imagination is incredible. I will relate to these thoughts later once I am further in my book.

-Mathias