Lauren and I left Auckland this am in Jimmy James's van to travel the North Island. We went up on the hill (Mt Eden) a volcanic structure this morning to take a look at Auckland before we hit the road. What a wonderful view of the city, including Eden Park that is the place where the All Blacks play their games.We travelled to Thames, a British Gold-mining town and then on to Hahei Beach. The curse that seems to be with me continued - high rain and wind warni...

I was lost out there for a few days - 9 hrs at the Chicago airport and 19 hrs in Los Angelas. With 15 min to take-off, they let three stand-by passengers on the flight and I was the first one called. Great, but a sprint through sedurity instead of calling anyone!! I travelled business class, something that I could get used to easily - the MacMillan genes!!! I got myself to downtown Auckland, and within four blocks of Lauren's place before I finally got a cab ...

Here I sit on hold with Cheapo Air waiting on hold for them to solve my problem - my flight is delayed 5 hours and I am missing my connection to Auckland and the United couldn't do a thing for me - maybe I could get there next Wednesday!!!! I am going to LA and I don't know what I will do there, but I'll be closer. I'll let you know when I get there1 Send up a little prayer!

I am actually sitting at my computer in Deep River getting ready to head for the airport in the morning. My destination is Auckland as you see in the picture. I will be in transit for the next 24 hrs. Have a great summer everyone.