BRISBANE

Hi! I only have a few minutes and then I have to get out and explore a little more of Brisbane before I get on the train to Townsville. Just thought I should give everyone a little update since I my last blog was so emo haha I'm feeling much better today. Brisbane is awesome!!! I've been here since 5 am but I haven't seen much of the city because from 5-8, I was just sitting at the train station, reading and waiting for them to open their luggage check office so I could get rid of my large bag. When I finally left the train station, I walked through Roma Street Parkland, this huge beautiful park right behind the train station. I felt like I was in the rainforest!! Here are some pics (not mine):

Then I went to the public baths and took a shower and swam for about an hour. =) When I came out, it was starting to rain and I needed to dry my towel so I went to a nearby hotel and they let me use their dryer -- I also charged my phone and camera. woo hooo! When I came out, it was POURING!!! I think I bring the rain with me to every city I visit! I asked a guy who was standing outside if he thought it would stop soon (in which case I would just sit down under the hotel's awning and wait it out) and he said yeah, probably in 20 minutes -- and he was exactly right. I sat down and talked to the guy while I waited for the rain to stop and when I did, I got up and the back side of my backpack was all wet. I had put it on the ground, not realizing that the roof was leaking and the water was going down the wall and collecting under my backpack. grrrrrrrr. For about an hour, I carried it around by one strap, which is a lot harder than wearing it on my back. :/ but it finally dried so I can wear it the normal way now. I've gotten to see a little bit of the city, but I didn't get a chance to go to the Eagle Street Pier so I'll have to check that out when I get back here in a couple weeks. I'll be visiting my cousin Deb for a couple nights and couchsurfing for a few nights after that. and I just booked a night at the hostel where I'm using the internet. I'm also gonna book a brewery tour (through the hostel it's only $22 including 4 beers) at XXXX Brewery. Yay! Can't wait! Well, I'm off to explore the city and grab some lunch before my train. Talk to you all soon.

***LAKERS UPDATE: Lakers 78 Pistons 56

LET'S GO LAKERS!!!!