So I felt the need to post just one last time. We are leaving today to head back to the states but we have tell 3pm to get in our last NZ experiences. I am going to miss the people and culture and lifestyle down here. This has been an experience that I will never forget and I cant wait to come home and tell everyone about it. I am also going to miss the summer. I hear it is quite cold back at home. But whatever the cost I am on my way home today and cant wait to hear everyones voices once again (without costing me an arm and leg). See ya all soon
Jen

So I have come to a conclusion well maybe it is more of a question. Why is it when you walk into a childrens book store or any book store for that matter in New Zealand you find books from every where in the world. And when you walk into a book store in the US there is only US books with a little tiny sections about other countries and books by their authors. Why is New Zealand ahead of the game and providing their children and young readers with the oppertunity to learn and grow with a variety of books and the US is only focused on the US.

So we made it to Auckland-yeah!! We went on a little city tour today and hit up the childrens section of the public lib. We then had some free time to check out what Auckland has to offer. This city reminds me of home more then any of the others. It is large like Seattle the only thing is that people are brave and are walking around without any shoes on-this would never happen at home. At home there are signs in every shop that say shoes and shirt required but not here in NZ-people walk around shoe less all the time.

Hello everyone!!

So I finally found the book store and I tried to post a pic. of me and the owner (because she was so helpful) but I dont think the pic posted sorry about that. I will try and see if it works with some help. Tomorrow we will be taking a 80 min. bus ride and swimming with the dolphins :). I am so excited for this one. I will take lots of pic and will try and post them if I can figure out how. Miss you all and sending lots of love.
Jen

Today we met with 2 NZ authors at the public Lib. It was such a great experience, I learned a lot about the history of childrens lit (where it started at and where it is now). It has gone through so many changes. Gavin Bishop brought in some of his books and his drawings. We were able to see the process of making the illustrations for his books. It was a picture perfect monment when he held up his large drawing and then held up the book.

New Zealand here I come! I am so excited to be going and less than a month away, Yeah. When asked what I am looking foward to? I would have to say everything. Yes, even the plane fight. Just to be going and getting to experence something that will only come once in a life time is very exciting.