KEY POINTS:
The question to ask oneself at this point of the World Cup, does anyone in New Zealand care about what happens now?
Have they forgotten that all us Kiwis are still over here being swamped by Englishmen and South Africans who pat us on the back with an incredulous look at how bad things have gone.
The Saffas are pretty good to us Kiwis however the continuing funny, but not funny, sarcasm from some of the English is leading to a few testy words at the Stade De France recently.
Since my sojourn to Marsielle I've experienced four different countries in the space of a week, combined with sampling the Below 42 Bar in Bastille set up just for the weeks of the semis and final.
The bar is a Kiwi bar, of course, and is getting some good crowds to listen to the top NZ DJs while buying full bottles of flavoured vodka, with splits and ice accompanying.
What made the bar even better on Sunday night was the appearance of Wayne Barnes - THE referee most vilified by Kiwis in the history of the game surely!!
He didn't know it was a Kiwi bar but introduced himself to everyone as James. Very wise.
It didn't fool many but us Kiwis have grown up it seems, there was no angst, just a few 'chats'.
He's quite a funny chap - not that you'd believe me.
Then there was Bobby Skinstad who I also managed to run into during my time over here researching the restaurants.
Now the constant licking of the lips, the poster boy looks might lead you to assume certain things about what he might be like.
However the guy is outgoing, relaxed, funny and nice. Very normal.
Likes to drink a bit of vino too.
Probably why he's a dirt tracker or reserve - it's just not the way to be in this new age world.
As for this week, well I'm hoping to run into Prince Harry like my tour group did.
Check out his lapel, there should be a little silver fern on there!
Basically this world cup for us Kiwis over here has turned into a 'Who can you spot competition' combined with seeing as many of the amazing sights as you can squeeze in between games.
So don't forget us over here, we're still wearing our black jackets!
