Back to tipping again. Crap.

Wow, unbelievably I sat down and got the photos all done! Proves the saying that it is far better to do it right away, instead of allowing the task to languish. Doesn't hurt that I am lollygagging around the house today a bit in a daze with jet lag. I am sooo glad we gave ourselves an extra day to recover before heading back to work. Even though it meant leaving the day NZ played France. That would have been awesome to be in the midst of. The other game NZ played (not counting the first one we attended) was a blowout and not very exciting to watch.

We did befall one small hitch - I lost my camera when we arrived in New Plymouth from Auckland. I am glad that if it had to happen, it was only the 2nd day so not many photos were lost. BUT, it did mean I lost the photos of the opening match of the RWC and the only game All Blacks played which we had tickets for. It was absolutely amazing to be a part of the opening ceremony and see NZ play live. Officials expected about 80,000 people to show up in Auckland for the festivities, in reality 200,000 poured in! The atmosphere was euphoric and exciting!! I even got in the act and convinced Jason to paint the left side of my face black and it looked pretty darn cool.

Enjoy the photos, starting with the 3rd day and our attendance at the USA vs Ireland match.

https://picasaweb.google.com/106641047386114998460/NewZealand2011?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJj4n874rbS53QE&feat=directlink

P.S.

TV coverage of the RCW sucks in the US, but here is a link to the opening ceremony. I highly recommend watching it, about 25min.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GkXpQhc51g&noredirect=1