Very Cool pictures, Harmy! Looks and sounds like you had a great trip!
You are right about the part that was missing. It's already back and working fine.
I am nearly done downloading Star Wars and I will see it for the first time since I was a little kid as it was really meant to be seen. Being born in 87, For the most part I grew up with the 97SE versions, so this will be a real treat. I hate when old films are mutilated. Looking forward to 1.2 as well!