Just to let everyone know that I've arrived back in Auckland, safe and sound. Slept for a better part of the flight, which is a good thing. I thought that I might have trouble at customs but they moved me right thru. Beautiful sunrise as I walked from bus stop to Parnell. Thanks to everyone for making my stay enjoyable. More photos to follow........ read more

Saturday after picking up the ref/freezer for the housewarming/reception I headed out to Seattle to visit Chris and Eric (and Jim and Melinda too). PS. Thanks mom for the girly WSU Cougar key chain and license plate they went well in Husky land. Caught up with Chris and Eric. Headed down to the Ram for beer, burgers and a Mariners game. Sunday was a bike ride down to Lake Washington for Sea Doo water and air show. I left early and caught up with Jim and Melinda. Melinda prepared a wonderful dinner that was not lamb! NZ is great but too much lamb. I checked out Jim’s collator cars and Melinda’s dahlias. We said our goodbyes I was off to Bellingham to visit Charlotte. Monday I checked out Charlotte’s maturing garden, enjoyed the sun and then ... read more

Fireworks started a day early here, but tomorrow will be the big event. Stocked up on traditional american July 4th foods. Firework s are in the house ready to go... Wowzers.... ... read more

Did I tell you I’m the Social Club Pres for my office of 245 people? Well it was a nomination I wasn’t looking for and didn’t particularly desire, but having a kick ass time (though it is consuming a fair amount of extra free time). My current pet project is the Mid Winter Office Party. Budget: $145 per person…. That’s enough money for one awesome night. Theme is Casino Royale. We’ve rented the ballroom at one of Auckland’s top hotels. Waiters will circulate through the room serving alcohol and canapés while we drink, dance and gamble the night away (we’re brining in casino tables and dealers - no money is on the line). Too bad none of you are here - I’d work you past the gatekeepers!!! What do you think of the poster that ... read more

Had to get out of town and get back to nature. Actually, I think I’d been looking for an excuse to get some driving in for the last few weeks. Walking and public transportation is great, but every once in a while you need to feel you’re in control of the speed. Headed for the Coromandel Peninsula - two hour drive east of Auckland - Friday after work. Not much to add beyond what’s written in the photos. The Coromandel is more a summer beach destination than a winter spot. Small communities that have little to offer (i.e. dinning, bar, entertainment, recreation, etc….), but beaches. First night in Thames, a gold mining town. Next day did the small street fair (garbage… I mean garage sale) on the main street. Hit this great butterfly farm on ... read more