Homeward Bound!

I am here now in the Qantas Lounge, soon to board a flight from Auckland to LAX, then onward to JFK, then at long last: (after six different ones) a night in my own bed. To sleep, perchance to dream, and perchance with a puss on the pillow snuggled to my head.

New Zealand has been a delightful capper to this trip, and much time and mirth have been enjoyed with friends - including Shelley's delightful baby, Shelley Jr., aka Millie.

The only part of New Zealand that scared me is the Famous Terrifying Santa Claus that stands atop the Whitcoull's Bookshop on Queen Street.

The particular picture doesn't quite do him justice, as his index finger is motorized as if beckoning wee kiwi babies to come whisper their Christmas secrets in his oversized mechanical ear.

God Bless America.