Hey guys,
Sorry to write back so late, I was out of town for a week, and then have just been very busy (no ML time!

). Unfortunately i still haven't gotten the hood open...
Azinn, Thanks for the photos man they really help!
Autobahner, I tried what you suggested but it still didn't work. I'm basically back to trying to use a bent coat hanger to try and hook onto the latch and pull it back far enough so that the hood "hook" is released.
However, while i was clankin around in there, I noticed that "below" where I believe the hood lock mechanism is, a plastic piece was loose. I pried it off and it looks a cover, perhaps a bottom cover for the hood mechanism. Anyway the part number is A 163 887 01 25, don't know if you guys are familiar with it, but i just wanted to check.
Thanks again,