Right so....

I hot footed it to Olympic park which was pretty cool I swam 1km in the pool and then had a quick tour including the dressing rooms. Not quite sure which was england was in when we won the world cup but it was still cool to see the pitch and also later the Olympic cauldron. There is a place outside for every medal winner to I took ages finding a few memorable Brits!

Next day I headed to Bondi Beach! Which was a lot better than I expected. everyone build it up to be this horrible overdone beach but in reality it was quite as nice bay. I walked the coastal walk and took in the sculptures as well as being able to catch up with both Heather, Tez and Syed who I had previously met on my travels. That night I couldn't make up my mind what I wanted to do re the truck. Should I go and meet it or not? I thought not but changed my mind!

I met sos and her mum who had flown from NZ to surprise her at the station and we caught the bus out to the Sydney cricket ground to meet the truck. Everyone was in high spirits and was looking forward to crossing the bridge. As soon as I boarded the truck all my apprehensions were forgotten and I felt like I hadn't been away! Rach did introduce me to the entire truck though just in case they had forgot me! I soon settled into a seat at the back of the truck and was joining in with the festivities! Next thing we knew we were crossing the bridge and things where coming to a quick end! The truck looked fantastic with both Australian,St. George flags and streamers all over it! It was a real party bus at 10am on a Sunday morning hehe! We did all the posing of photos etc and everyone was on a high (see www.eoe.org,uk). We later met up in a bar on Coogee bay for drinks and had a fantastic night celebrating. What a great trip and what friends I have made! I truly love some people on this truck and am so glad to have met them!

I had a day or so away from everyone before catching up with folk at Manly beach ( where I also caught up with Kim who I met in Adelaide) and then for goodbye drinks. I couldn't believe that my time in Oz was over! I was so upset to say goodbye to some people. Not quite sure what I'll do when I'm not in the same country or hemisphere as them! Devastating! But I made it to the airport All good things must come to an end I guess.

Off to New Zealand and my 25th country of the year! I can't believe how naturally beautiful and friendly this country is. I have seen tropical forests, deserts, volcanic lakes, geothermal, snow capped mountains all in one day! I have been to three households where I have not know anyone and yet been made to feel so welcome that I want to extend my stay! (Don't worry mum I'll be home on the 20th!) I've also seen the oldest tree in the world (2000 years old!) , the oldest buildings in NZ, a Kiwi, super loos, and site where the NZ treaty was signed!

I had a great time staying with Sos' parents where I was treated to a roast dinner complete with proper Yorkshires! And am now in Wellington staying with Sos' brother before I venture south!

I'm starting to look forward to returning home and I'm a real mixed bag. I love home and my friends there but I've had fantastic trip and even better year! 2007 has been awesome! I honestly don't think it was better and don't want it to end! Bernard I need your watch!

Lots of love and I'll be seeing you soon!

Roll on the 20th and a cheese and pickle sarnie!

All my love Nicole xxx