Tonight is my last night at the Scott home in Waitakere/Bethels. We just had stirfry for dinner (delicious as always), and it rounded out another great day!

After lunch, I went with Cush, Oscar and Ruby to run some errands, and we stopped at a winery called Soljans, which ironically enough, is sold at some food markets in Madison and Milwaukee! The lady who poured my wine, Clare, visited Madison a year ago and totally loved it . What a small world!

Before dinner, I received a hot stone massage from Rae, who lives next door to the Scotts. She is a full-time nanny, but used to be a masseause. It was so awesome! It was such a surreal and interesting moment - like, I'm in the middle of New Zealand, in the country, getting a hot stone massage. Cool !! Rae is super nice and a very interesting person. Everyone I have met here has been so nice.

Tomorrow I will head into Auckland city where Cush will drop me off to catch an airport shuttle, which will then take me to my hotel. I'm sooooo not looking forward to the cold temps, wind and ice. The weather here has been spectactular. It will be a big change!

I'm sad about leaving this place - am excited to get home in some ways, but sad to be leaving this awesome family. I really can't say enough wonderful things about all of them. They made me feel at home the minute I walked in, and I really hope they take me up on my offer to visit me in Wisconsin. Ruby is also going to become penpals with my nieces and another friend's daughter. How cool is that?!?! Forming friendships far away is a great thing. Anyway, I will really miss New Zealand and this family. They will have a special place in my heart, but are only just an email or Facebook friendship away. :)

Kakiteano (Good bye) for now,
Jamie