UPDATE: 91 days and counting!

The day is drawing near! Only 91 days to go until I board that plane to Oz. It seems like just yesterday that I learned I was going, so this is getting crazy. A few updates and random facts:

• After talking to my host family, I have learned that it is indeed likely that I will see a kangaroo bounding across the horizon...I can't wait.
• They also assure me that Australia is not the deathtrap that the Discovery Channel makes it out to be...I hope they aren't just trying to make me feel better. :)
• They are planning to take me to a lovely place called Hervey Bay, a mecca for whale watching. It looks spectacular. Perhaps I will run into the crew from Whale Wars. 
• I will be spending time working with Maroochy Waterwatch, a local watershed organization. This is a great opportunity to help me to meet some people and build my skills in preparation for grad school. Here is their website if anyone is interested.  http://www.maroochycatchmentcentre.org.au/ 
• I have learned that a "jumper" is a light jacket. 
• 3 of us have our birthdays during a week and a half span in September. It will be a glorious time of celebration.
• I suck at converting from Fahrenheit to Celsius.
• I've been meaning to get to this for awhile. Sorry for those who have been waiting! This is the website if you are an American citizen who wishes to apply for a Working Holiday visa for Australia. You have to meet specific age and education requirements. http://www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/462/usa/
• I just applied for graduation. (I realize this isn't Australia related, but it's exciting)
• Life is good.

More on the Sunshine Coast

Here is an excerpt that is from Lonely Planet's Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef book.

"The endless summers and surfer-chic culture of the Sunshine Coast bewitch all who step onto its sandy shores. There's a wholesomeness to the Sunny Coast that's as natural and unaffected as its idyllic surf beaches and balmy sea breezes. Early mornings see a steady flow of surfers, joggers, cyclists and walkers making the most of the beach scene and cappuccino culture."