Anton, Melbourne, Australia

zauberaeffle


Posted Aug 12, 2012, 9:07 pm
Hi all,

I am a little turtle (length 9 cm, height 4 cm), and this is my first day as Toyvoyager. I'm really excited about what awaits me in all the great world.

I am very fond of animals and my greatest wish would be to be photographed with a living roof.

Otherwise I am very adventurous, but I also do not object to anything once.

I would appreciate if someone would report to Zauberaeffle that takes me with him for some time with them and shows me his home.


Many love greetings
Anton
zauberaeffle


Posted Aug 16, 2012, 12:46 pm
Hello everybody,

today I was lazy with Sausi Karl in the garden.

I can not tell you how excited I am. Tomorrow I'll make my first trip. It goes to Minnesota. I'm pretty excited.

While Sausi Karl and I were drinking tea, he told me that he will travel to Finland tomorrow. This is all so exciting. I have no real words ...  :D

Many greetings Anton
zauberaeffle


Posted Aug 16, 2012, 12:56 pm
Hello,

This morning I made some pictures in the apartment of my mom before          Sausi Karl had helped me to prepare my envelope.

Together we have selected a nice postcard for my new host in Minnesota. I know that she collects postcards.  :D

I just have to slip into my envelope and then starts my journey.
I'm so excited, I can not describe it. I look forward to my new host in Minnesota.

Minnesota I am coming.....  :p


Many greetings Anton
lazyfairy


Posted Sep 12, 2012, 8:39 pm
Hello!

Greetings from USA!

I was so excited when I arrived here, that I couldn't wait to get out of my envelope.  As soon as I was out, I noticed another envelope with another TV who had the same idea.  This is my new friend Mr.Lumpi.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0OL2OwlnSnk/UFDet9mUbxI/AAAAAAAACCY/FXAxa3R0oow/s640/P1070496.JPG

After looking around, I found lots of new friends here.  We're going to have soo much fun together.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-eV-idGPTdDk/UFDexC9B_RI/AAAAAAAACCg/B0vD1-uvL2Q/s640/P1070497.JPG

Best Wishes!
Anton
lazyfairy


Posted Sep 13, 2012, 12:13 am
Hello!

Today I visited a little park in Baldwin, Wisconsin.  It is called Windmill Park.  Guess why it's called that!

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-o-pXwjLHPXs/UFDe7HfhZyI/AAAAAAAACCw/ChAQaXpzJiE/s640/P1070499.JPG

It was such a beautiful day.  The sky is so blue!  After checking out the windmill, I took a look at the little stream that runs through the middle of the park.  I wondered if any real turtles live here, but I didn't see any.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-d9UpqK8qTuQ/UFDfQVFmHWI/AAAAAAAACDI/ILwSm2-U2F4/s640/P1070503.JPG

Before our trip back home, I wanted to try out the swingset.  Not too high for me!

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--gCWKRe2mZg/UFDfWHb4B3I/AAAAAAAACDQ/plmtT37KjYw/s640/P1070504.JPG

It was so nice to get out in the sun.  Fall is coming soon.

Bye!
Anton
lazyfairy


Posted Sep 21, 2012, 4:26 am
Today we took a car ride to Duluth.  We didn't get to spend much time there, but we did stop by the beach.

The big lake behind me is Lake Superior.  It's so big that we couldn't see the other side!

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b8aNq8Hjcjc/UFdSAAV3ddI/AAAAAAAACG0/93vJZ3sAfbQ/s640/P1070527.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-h1_B-PqCc0c/UFdSMiNbJBI/AAAAAAAACG4/FJLRYsAuQLk/s640/P1070529.JPG

Next week, we are going to try to complete a life mission before I travel to my next host!

Best Wishes,
Anton
lazyfairy


Posted Sep 25, 2012, 5:36 pm
I looked outside today and noticed that the leaves were all different colors.  It's Autumn!  I'm so excited to get outside and check it out!

These leaves are starting to turn yellow.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ExgxNNaOTF4/UGHWYEOdUpI/AAAAAAAACKs/CV7q8r2PQWM/s640/P1070554.JPG

I really like this red tree.  Autumn is so pretty!

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pvzQdvXYeFY/UGHVWLjiXII/AAAAAAAACK0/lE8nlH9GuoY/s640/P1070541.JPG

A lot of leaves have already fallen to the ground.  I made a big pile and jumped in!

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AEwq2ijXMOQ/UGHWka4bEnI/AAAAAAAACLA/OeihSkzVOaY/s640/P1070556.JPG

Tomorrow I leave here for my next host!  I can't wait!

Anton
lazyfairy


Posted Sep 26, 2012, 5:16 pm
I leave here today.  It's time to continue my travels with a new host.  I can't wait to see adventures I will have!

Before I leave, I wanted to see some more nature around here.  We took a walk by Lake Harriet.  It was a very beautiful morning.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VJk701Xk3Xc/UGMlVqmCCcI/AAAAAAAACQg/iitn3G6uaaE/s640/P1070578.JPG

While looking around, I found a very interesting tree with a little door.  This is the house of Mr. Little Guy, an elf that live here in the Summer.  You can leave letters for him, and he will answer.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MvwWjKQUvZY/UGMlBRNFD0I/AAAAAAAACQs/YNGTTpMsV7s/s640/P1070571.JPG

I knocked on the door, but then I noticed a sign.  It says that he has moved from this cabin to his castle for the Winter.  I guess Minnesota Winters are just too cold for him.  On the side of the tree, I could see the letters he left for his friends.

I wondered if living in a tree counted as a green roof.  It's really cool, but I think I want to see a real green roof.

After all this, I am off to the post office. 

Goodbye my friends
see you soon!
Anton
MamiTig


Posted Sep 30, 2012, 2:48 am
Anton arrived safely in Iola, KS, USA!
MamiTig


Posted Sep 30, 2012, 2:50 am
I inspected the progress on host mom's latest project!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 1, 2012, 2:55 am
One of host mom's daughters is taking a photography class for her after school program and had an assignment to look for patterns. On Saturday, after Sabbath school and while waiting for potluck, we helped her look for patterns!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 3, 2012, 5:10 am
Host mom took us down to see the Neosho River today. She was amazed that even after all the rain we have had, it is still incredibly low!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 4, 2012, 4:51 am
Host mom finished her project today- a dress for her oldest daughter!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 7, 2012, 3:35 am
Host mom got her new full spectrum camera in this week, so we decided to take it somewhere interesting to try it out. We visited the Galemore Cemetery, and host mom took pictures with both full spectrum and her regular camera.
MamiTig


Posted Oct 8, 2012, 2:39 am
Anton inspected the cranes that host mom's oldest daughter is making. She says she wants to make 1,000 cranes so she can make a wish.
MamiTig


Posted Oct 9, 2012, 5:05 am
Host mom is finishing up another costume... she calls this one "Little Red Fighting Good"!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 10, 2012, 4:47 am
Today was host mom's birthday!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 13, 2012, 7:13 am
We were supposed to go to the high school football game today, but lightning, thunder, and torrential rain meant it got postponed. We took shelter in a nearby recreation building and watched the middle school and high school bands at marching practice!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 14, 2012, 5:22 am
A delicious Sabbath supper at the SDA church! :)
MamiTig


Posted Oct 16, 2012, 2:53 am
The stormy skies had an amazing yellow shade that we never could quite catch in a picture, but host mom did get these lovely pictures with her regular and full spectrum cameras.
MamiTig


Posted Oct 17, 2012, 5:33 am
Host mom is hard at work on another costume...
MamiTig


Posted Oct 18, 2012, 5:06 am
More progress! Host mom told us that inspiration for the design came from Edward Gorey.
MamiTig


Posted Oct 19, 2012, 4:52 am
Oh my! There was a ghost cat in the downstairs bathroom tonight...
MamiTig


Posted Oct 22, 2012, 3:17 am
We visited the Farm City Days celebration in downtown Iola today! We saw all sorts of things, like carnival rides a blacksmith, tractors, and vendor booths! It sure was a lot of fun!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 23, 2012, 4:08 am
We got to watch The Passing Zone performance at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center! We even had front row seats.
MamiTig


Posted Oct 27, 2012, 4:49 am
We met a new friend named Axie! Host mom was so happy that Axie joined her family because Axie is a squishable axolotl and #426 in the series!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 29, 2012, 12:58 am
Anton enjoyed another Sabbath supper at the SDA church! :) He had to run away from a spill; good thing he's a fast little turtle!
MamiTig


Posted Oct 29, 2012, 4:41 am
We took a visit to Twin Trestles, to see what autumn is doing to the landscape. The trees seem to be going straight to curled up and brown, or to leaves falling, without a lot of the usual pretty colors this year.
MamiTig


Posted Nov 2, 2012, 3:32 am
We visited the Attachment Center in Wichita, KS today. This is what it looked like outside and inside!
MamiTig


Posted Nov 4, 2012, 5:15 am
On the way home from Wichita, host mom stopped to take a short walk and find the spring around which the Kansas town of Eureka was founded.
MamiTig


Posted Nov 5, 2012, 5:15 am
There were strange things afoot on Halloween!
MamiTig


Posted Nov 6, 2012, 2:55 am
Anton is traveling!
zauberaeffle


Posted Nov 19, 2012, 5:44 pm
Hello,

I am well back home.

In the next few days I will travel to China  :D

I am so excited.

Today two TV came at our home. Xiaoxia and Robby.
To Xiaoxias mum I will travel  :p

Greetings Anton
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Dec 15, 2012, 11:55 am
Hello, mom!  :p
Today, I arrived in China, Grandpa drive me back. Grandma and hostmom at home, everyone welcome to my arrival. I also feel very happy and excited!
My small gift, let host family very surprised. They want to say:Thank you very much, we love you!  :p
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/70/l/El3oVXbDi_.WGl.fv1yNDA.jpg

I feel a little hungry, grandma prepared a typical Chinese food. There are: egg, white sesame, rice and a kind sauce.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/71/l/Q.aDHI9ZdO0UUOS9GDVldw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/72/l/VF5aOCCNXO6peGGlHb8E4A.jpg

Hostmom show me these fridge magnet, from different countries.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/73/l/Cf0UIM37EGX2mAJfoEi8JQ.jpg

I got a big grapefruit.  ;)
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/97/l/nugIkIxNQYIrAB0Bo_QK7Q.jpg

The host family will be back to Xi'an 's house, before Christmas. Where they will celebrate Christmas. I'm looking forward to it.
Love you, mom!
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Dec 22, 2012, 12:24 pm
Hello, mom!
We will go to another city: Xi'an. Host 's family were very busy, because need to prepare a lot of things. On Christmas, we will arrival Xi'an. We will first stay in the hotel. I look forward to it.  ;)
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/11/l/UPgoifkNPHSaIgRXUtG0lQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/12/l/KKFNYXgTZhys9rz1ZImqZg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/13/l/9cMlK6lED4981xE1xumhng.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/14/l/hVl1SeE1q0QL7u7NlbOiTg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/15/l/9hrKjuNAi9UqC_yAal9REw.jpg

Love you!  :p
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Dec 29, 2012, 2:26 pm
Hello, mom!!!  :p
Today we arrived Xi'an, living in hotel about a week.
Unfortunately, not a good weather. We just look outside from the window.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/53/l/InR284UmbdSjuiAsQow3xw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/54/l/ygSsYOP55uQq7OX26k2_qg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/55/l/lzJtj18NxyKBO0nEAmJ3yA.jpg

Love you, mom!  ;)
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Dec 31, 2012, 1:27 pm
Hello, mom!  ;)
Today we went to Metro supermarket by metro,  to buy some food. I have a kind of intimacy, because germany!
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/73/l/h2yRbvyzIXMXLMf1W4tVFQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/74/l/VNZhbjKReKLM5J1ExNs6Vw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/75/l/djjrdj9lOV4Nb3rGqYRJUA.jpg

We pass by the Shaanxi Provincial Museum of natural history, there is a huge dinosaur models. Hostmom afraid of dinosaurs, I'm not afraid!
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/76/l/7Nd4hmH41Y9YR.H3kdKbUw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/77/l/Dkr9X4_153HPOfu.F.UB9Q.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/78/l/u6Px87aJiDfRpT9kcySs1g.jpg

This is the TV Tower.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/79/l/n_5mCUq9AW7yi_BeRzLOVA.jpg

This is a gas station, you can see today's prices, on the brand.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/80/l/cO.9K2qeLf3Aws7JUHm4IQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/81/l/xuXcvnQFLFR.FKi2DM23aA.jpg

We like the Metro supermarket.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/82/l/Cknn7euouZroqUAgbWu2Jg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/83/l/SeGPYajtZUkChwxPGhPB2A.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/84/l/eK1e8h8gwf65mbJeYmHIxQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/85/l/RFtJf1BnQfmrqU5SiyhXtA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/86/l/ytX6UAcRpOQeZbBe8Mpclg.jpg

Love you, mom!  :p
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Jan 11, 2013, 7:11 am
Hello, mom!
Today, we took the bus to go out. We went to a nearby mall.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/26/l/B.Vs4fzEI23xMo6LtTgeyQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/36/l/YMwyeqvzIbClx9NkcHs8NQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/28/l/1o2eIo7h1ZeIpquPV0kbow.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/29/l/8ESs1e.vFkmyDKOm0kUHUQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/30/l/hPnH_LBsRhZGyrIl9UePHA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/33/l/vvceqLvMG6n3W1RvCVjSYA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/37/l/UnTOy5XOtNFnyj_e.LKN8A.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/41/l/45ncuSoi02jRH9UeEUNGYQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/39/l/gjfU4qYYP0ul2tqbw1b.kw.jpg

We also encountered a " Taiwan Food Festival ", many Taiwan businessmen and Taiwan chef in here is making all kinds of Taiwan famous food. So. We enjoy many different kinds of food. It tastes good, especially Taiwan nougat. haha.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/35/l/NUElFA0vqp0h81R4i0AzaA.jpg

Love you, mom!  ;)
Linda Fdph


Posted Mar 5, 2013, 3:00 pm
Hello Mom

Finally, iam arrived in Bali
Can not wait to start my next journey here
Wish me luck :)

Love
Anton
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Mar 6, 2013, 5:54 am
Hello, mom!
Today we are play the piano.  ;)
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/67/l/im3aWsFQgpij0wgPNthkhg.jpg

Then we take the metro, go to the nearby. You can see the Xi'an metro, every station's walls have different painting or sculpture.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/68/l/9NI6WLbCj1L_wWBI4nIB1w.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/69/l/ijH7aO.zep9ipv5Br.kyzw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/70/l/.n0n8OkBajkC3m.3MXt0ng.jpg

The street sculpture.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/71/l/xLp1Y4WC5.AH03IG0sX61Q.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/72/l/JVjN9BkQAiGOJRyAb81JHA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/73/l/WskPPoUj8bzgJUm1DKfdmg.jpg

Finally, we went to the flower market, we also bought some plants.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/74/l/wfHDfXeIi11WMFTsaZj1Lg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/75/l/Osh7gDBu6b8aZ3r0N7spdQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/76/l/CJ6m0i2PdOthl9zywKLejA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/77/l/jEuVF3.X4QjBBQaWjiA47A.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/78/l/dJumP0K5SZ.Pbq3D9tsjMA.jpg

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http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/81/l/nJkwfq3R.I9FDGTSsOYdHQ.jpg

We go back home, by metro.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/83/l/yPXhbfSjE_OJzGrsPkX84g.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/84/l/8FiMhLTynd9CURqj8Ux9jw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/82/l/C5h9AAlunYxaUXoTBRkZzA.jpg

Love you, mom!  :p
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Mar 9, 2013, 1:54 pm
Hello, mom!
First, we came to centre of Xi'an, can see the famous "Bell Tower". It is one of the signs of Xi'an, but recently China has big fog, we don't have a good weather take photos. You can see, "Bell Tower " now in the maintenance period, all wrapped. At least until February 6th to open again. Unfortunately, we do not see the beautiful Bell Tower!
About it, please see: Bell Tower

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/51/l/BLjYan6oNeQNmy3E2fDqoQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/52/l/wauf5fHxwANKNMEJqzr6ww.jpg

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Nearby here is the " Jinhua " square, it has a lot of traditional architecture. Also can buy a coffee or ice cream.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/56/l/a4rulXRrpRs8iVEZcpBvoQ.jpg

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http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/55/l/zzGUSryR.nC5BS3O4iZkKw.jpg

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This is a very famous restaurant in Xi'an, name is: 同盛祥(Tong sheng xiang). It was founded in 1920.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/58/l/bhzDjEFhe7zu7YERe4Mg_Q.jpg

This also is a very famous restaurant in Xi'an, name is: 德发长(De fa chang). It was founded in 1936.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/59/l/Av1lzZfVH4UCTmmf.Eremg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/60/l/oDirZYblow_8SOhlTx8ujw.jpg

Have people practice Chinese calligraphy.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/61/l/m42DYszqcgtU63jpb5eJeg.jpg

Then we come to Drum Tower of Xi'an. And the bell tower, it is also one of the symbol of Xi'an. It was built in 1380, was a very famous history. Of course, it is also in the maintenance period, when the February 6th open again. About it, please see: Drum Tower

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/63/l/58VBF9EP3d5Ar0ubNFgBFg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/64/l/4JoFM_gSAWpHr87.P.DKbA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/65/l/5zybTnJOOlqgtrBWCxRHxw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/66/l/zKi4IOXiAtTPC7gpr3y4JQ.jpg

This is the drum tower monument:
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/62/l/F7f1jwVGbxEazxB3zwgTqw.jpg

Now we went to "Huimin Street". This is a very famous place in Xi'an, it is Muslim living place. So there are a lot of Chinese traditional flok art works shop and characteristics food. We often come here, take the Metro from our house just needs two station. There are famous Mosque, many tourists from different countries will came to this street to visit.

This is a small alley of this street. This looks like a gate's building, we call it: Pailou (or Paifang). Please see this: Pailou

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/67/l/orJ.lE1anMoD0VNcfD.ITQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/68/l/2mtjhhmhblw7tqBEiJfg.A.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/69/l/ioBMH4m__D8fJDUdU1TtgQ.jpg

These statues, described the some Chinese people 100 years ago's life.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/70/l/qOybu8RVXxD43KXGC4PXYw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/71/l/5r8WA4wJfoVlvlYGH6NlEQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/72/l/6a.QKpZRVgYosrc0C52zbw.jpg

This is the heritage of the Xi'an, it is an old house. In 1871, there is a person in the ancient national exams, get second. So emperor rewarded him with a large house. This house structure is very complex, very beautiful. This time we did not go in, but later we will again.
This old house have a monument, it's address is in this Street No.144.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/73/l/VESjdqZvr.A.zBA8yh6AKg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/74/l/RwDcC6enVPatjNnAWYSPFg.jpg

This is the most famous "Great Mosque of xi'an". Please see this: 清真大寺
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/75/l/1vbf_Mum8UM6dPYpo11HxA.jpg

This are traditional Chinese folk art works, very interesting! Now as a kind decoration.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/77/l/9wx1YyqBXXGmFBGhRclugQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/76/l/FA58LKAO0BKy_KIalrAI_A.jpg

This is the famous family shop has a 100 years history, it began selling traditional taste of beef and mutton from 1928. There also have other traditional snacks, hostmom most like their "persimmon cake".
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/78/l/MeATjPQsRHGozPc5TeqcqA.jpg

This is a most famous "Baozi" restaurant in Xi'an, very delicious. CCTV and other many media also reported it, many stars will also come here to taste.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/79/l/8a.6vd4drYsBfoP.IXBhBQ.jpg

I have a happy day!
Love you, mom!!
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Mar 10, 2013, 5:53 am
Hello, mom!
Today no special things.  :p
You can see the ordinary street, bus, school and so on, this is real.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/53/l/iJ4E37nu1WsDpMxylxF9Hg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/54/l/5011NWAfLVxwWt0XNLJlpA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/55/l/u7v6eyhaQ2AmagaG.donTw.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/56/l/rJR69._iW7Msp._hnSDgeg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/57/l/Fa0YNNu32EFezWHFYHwXfg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/58/l/dEyt6fhOTtB4OvIe.cbJ7w.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/61/l/bS1368U3iXRxeAjxQAqwjA.jpg

Love you!!!
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Mar 10, 2013, 6:46 am
Hello, mom!
Today we pass by "Guangming square" the meaning is: bright square. There will be a lot of people exercise or dancing, in here every night.
Here are some public bicycle, but few people use it.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/73/l/C6XUeVjqPTXmsGTA_KhnwQ.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/74/l/jFXQugCkAcv3IQpDhV6E2w.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/76/l/SjskV0fxvQVx2GC_FBrW3g.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/77/l/nZ1eVoHQFGGkxcL1cKHpyg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/82/l/aspFD51qvWTsVJ_yDTs_hw.jpg

This time we take the BRT to other places.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/78/l/NXjw92_08V_X1SvKxO6orA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/79/l/b912uY4kRw55b8klxaepyg.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/80/l/jElFjp0hy73JdDicg.DsPw.jpg

Love you!!!!
Monachu
903696013@qq.com

Posted Mar 10, 2013, 9:25 am
Hello!  :p
This is the city museum, it is the ancient Chinese architectural style typical. In front of the statue, is auspicious animal.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/3/l/9qCOyA8bOfSwiNdj5eZknA.jpg

http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/4/l/4fKtG58ZgsxFReJ9azTQSg.jpg

At last we came to a restaurant nearby, it mainly to Chinese noodles.
http://blog.yimg.com/3/2ITRe197s5.E7NfV90R2BGkDLZuC1aowxByIzsEe9DiaFTieRH33yw--/5/l/WA3Adh3oDdV49A5AHozmMQ.jpg

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Love you!!
Linda Fdph


Posted Mar 18, 2013, 12:54 pm
Hello Mom

Its a rainy day , and almost the strom, but we spend a little time to visit Bajra Sandhi Monument
The picture maybe not so good,because its a cloudy and some scenes taken during the drizzling rain.
About the Bajra Sandhi itself ,  the architecture  is very unique, taking the shape of Bajra or Genta, a bell that used by Hindu Priests during religious ceremonies. It is also a symbol of the bond between males and females that creates prosperity according to the epic that tells the story of the Gods struggle to get the Water of Eternity.

A
Linda Fdph


Posted Mar 28, 2013, 1:27 am
Dear Mum

Iam in Sanur Beach Bali , one of the famous beach in Bali
Pic no 1 is name board of the Village in area of Sanur Beach
Pic no 2 - 6 is atmosphere in the beach
Pic n0 7 - 9 is showing about Jukung. A jukung or canoe is a small wooden Indonesian boat. It is a traditional fishing boat, but newer uses include "Jukung Dives", using the boat as a vehicle for small groups of SCUBA divers. Essentially of Balinese origin, the double outrigger jukung is but one of many types of Pacific/Asian outrigger canoes that use the crab claw sail traditional throughout Polynesia. Whilst this sail presents some difficulties in tacking into the wind, actually requiring to jibe around, a jukung is superb in its reaching ability and jibe-safe running. They are usually highly decorated and bear a marlin-like prow.
Pic no 10-12 : another site of the beach
Pic no 13-15 : is daily offering in the Jukung and Beach, named Canang Sari. Canang sari is one of the daily offerings made by Balinese Hindus to thank the Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in praise and prayer. Canang sari will be seen in the Balinese temples (pura), on small shrines in houses, and on the ground or as a part of a larger offering. The phrase canang sari is derived from the Balinese words sari (essence) and canang (a small palm-leaf basket as the tray). Canang itself consists of two syllables Kawi language of ca (beautiful) and nang (purpose). Canang sari has some parts, there are peporosan, ceper, raka-raka, and sampian urasari. Peporosan or the core material is made from betel leaf, lime, gambier, prestige, tobacco and betel nuts. Material of peporosan is symbolize the Trimurti, three major God in Hinduism. Shiva symbolized by lime, Vishnu symbolized by betel nut, and Brahma symbolized by gambier. Canang sari are covered by ceper (a tray made from palm leaf) as a symbol of Ardha Candra. Raka-raka is topped with sampian urasari, which are in turn overlaid by flowers placed in a specific direction. Each direction symbolizes a Hindu God (deva):
Canang sari is offered every day to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa as a form of thanking for the peace had given to the world; it is the simplest daily household offering. The philosophy behind the offering is self-sacrifice in that they take time and effort to prepare

Love
Anton
Linda Fdph


Posted Apr 11, 2013, 11:50 am
Dear Mum

Here is my picture when I visited Legian area. The street in the Legian is full with the shop , its really shopping area for the tourist. But iam not took a picture in front of the shop, my host mom choose to took my picture in front of the Hindu Temple and Monument ( Ground Zero ) in Legian area. At least we enjoyed an Indonesian lunch, called Gado-Gado ( Indonesian salad with spicy peanut sauce ) , Siomay ( Fish cake with peanut and coconut milk sauce ) and tasted Arabica coffee .

Love
A
Linda Fdph


Posted May 4, 2013, 10:33 am
Today my host introduced  me about The Music of Bali.
The music of Bali is extremely complex and vibrant. The original purpose of music here again is to serve religious beliefs, accompanying dances or wayang theaters. The traditional Balinese orchestra, known as gamelan, is composed of various forms of percussions, with notes overlapping and criss crossing among the various kinds. There is a number of string and woodwind instruments, but most of the players, which can range from a few to several dozen, sit behind various kinds of metallophones, gongs, and xylophones. Each gamelan has its own tuning, preventing instruments from being interchanged from one gamelan to another.

Hugs
Anton
Linda Fdph


Posted May 17, 2013, 7:58 am
Hello

Iam at The Werdhi Budaya Art Centre, its located at Nusa Indah Street is the heart Denpasar City of Bali Island. The Werdhi Budaya Art Centre was started in 1973 and finished in 1976. The Werdhi Budaya Art Centreits one of the largest and most complete in series of cultural centres built throughout the archipelago by the Indonesian Government over the last decade.

Designed by Bali's foremost architect, Ida Bagus Tugur, the vast complex is apart from its very real cultural function, a showplace for Balinese Arts and Palace Architecture at its most opulent.

Love
A
Linda Fdph


Posted May 25, 2013, 3:15 pm
Hello...........

My another picture in Werdhi Budaya ^^

Hugs
Anton
Linda Fdph


Posted Jun 4, 2013, 10:12 am
Hello Mom

iam with a cheap and popular food and fruits from Bali.
From up to down is : Sate Lilit Bali ( made from fish and herbs ), singkong goreng ( fried cassava), tapai ( fermented cassava ), DUKU fruit, Jaja Gambir ( Balinese sweet , made from glutinous rice and palm sugar, wrapped in Bamboo leaves), Jaja Satuh ( Balinese sweet made from satuh flour and palm sugar wrapped by corn leaves ), SALAK fruit and Mangosteen fruit.

Love
Anton
Linda Fdph


Posted Jun 14, 2013, 9:37 am
Hello Mum

Balinese cuisine uses many herbs and spices. In almost every dish we use them. So it’s very important to know what we need to make our cooking succeed.
Here is spices and herbs that HostMom and I have today in the kitchen : Cloves ( Cengkeh),  Kaffir Lime Leaves(Daun Jeruk Purut), Ginger(Jahe) ,  Cumin(Jintan),  Cinnamon(Kayu manis),  Candlenuts (Kemiri), Aromatic Ginger (kencur), Coriander(Ketumbar), Turmeric(Kunyit),  Galangal (Langkuas), White and black  Pepper(Merica putih dan hitam), Nutmeg(Pala),  Lemon grass ( Serai ),  Chilies ( cabai ) , Cardamon (Kapulaga ) , Onions ( Bawang Merah ) , Sesame seed ( Wijen ) , and also we have Glutinous Rice ( Beras Ketan )

Love
Anton
Linda Fdph


Posted Jul 7, 2013, 4:26 am
Hello Mom

Here is my last update from Bali.
Iam with Balinese Offerings.
Offerings are called banten in Balinese. It is possible that the word comes from the Sanskrit word bali, which means tribute, obligation or gift. Or it may be derived from the word enten, which means to wake up or be conscious. It is a consciousness of the gods.
One of Offerings called "Gebokan"  consist of fruits, money, food and flowers ·

Hugs from Bali
Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Jul 21, 2013, 10:21 am
Hi Mum!

This morning I arrived in Australia! I was in my travel bag for a long time, and I was glad to get out.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATarrive_zps1455d5b9.jpg

I met the other toys here, they are all very nice. Betty Bear is another TV, and the others live with Host Sister all the time. Here we are looking at the gifts my last host sent with me: a postcard, a keyring and some tea. It smells so good, we're looking forward to tasting it tonight.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATgifts_zps315262a9.jpg

Well, that's all for now Mum. I'm tired from travelling, so I'm going to have a rest. But I just wanted you to know that I arrived safely. Tomorrow Host Sister is going to take me into the city and we can see some of Melbourne's landmarks. I can't wait!    :D

xx Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Jul 24, 2013, 11:42 am
Hi Mum!

Today I went to work with Host Sister in the city. She works in a big skyscraper in the city. Here I am watching her work:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATwork_zpsbfa7e301.jpg

Then at lunch time we went for a walk by the Yarra River. This is the biggest river that runs through the centre of Melbourne. Here is the Eureka Tower. It's the tallest building in Melbourne. It's named after the Eureka Rebellion. In the 1850s there was a Gold Rush in Melbourne and people came from all over the world to mine for gold. The miners rebelled because the government taxes were too high.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATtower_zpseb44a011.jpg

The building has many symbols on it. The gold is for the gold that the miners searched for. The red near the top is for the blood they spilled during the rebellion. The white stripes represent the marks on the sticks surveyors used to measure and divide up the land.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATtower2_zps1d1afbcd.jpg

Walking further down by the river, we saw the Melbourne Aquarium. It was built only 13 years ago, and it has penguins and reptiles as well as aquarium fish.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATaq_zps5483f439.jpg

Oh no, a shark!! Don't worry Mum, it's only a picture on the outside of the aquarium.  :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATaq2_zpsd486aff1.jpg

I also saw this HUGE propeller from an old ship that was sitting by the side of the river.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATprop_zpsf41e5ef4.jpg

Later on Betty Bear and I had dinner at a local pizza restaurant. This Mexican pizza looks yummy!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBATdinner_zpsf0cbb322.jpg

apartmentcat


Posted Aug 1, 2013, 12:22 pm
Hi Mum!

Today we  baked muffins with ingredients that Host Sister had at home. First we found some frozen bananas in the freezer. Brrr, it's cold in here! We chose two nice big bananas for the muffins.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff1b_zps58b26e36.jpg

We waited for the bananas to defrost, but it took too long! So we put them in the microwave. Then Host Brother mashed them up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff2_zpsab522e78.jpg

We put the flour, sugar and cocoa powder in the bowl.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff3b_zps1ba2aa43.jpg

Next we put in the egg, melted butter and mashed up banana. Oooh, it's all gloopy!  Betty Bear and I helped to mix it all together.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff4_zpsf15f8fe2.jpg

We mixed it all together and then put the muffin mix in the tray. We spilled a little bit, oops!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff5_zpsef897690.jpg

Then  the muffins went in the oven for 25 minutes. When they came out, they had risen and they were all nice and brown. They smelled so good!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff6_zpse445561c.jpg

We tried one of the muffins with a cup of tea. Yummy!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/muff7_zps4dfd7c90.jpg

Love,
Anton.


apartmentcat


Posted Aug 4, 2013, 11:46 am
Hi Mum!

Host Sister wanted to take me on a walk to the gardens today, but it was cold and raining all day. What a shame!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATwindow_zpsc7bfcbd3.jpg

So instead we did some tidying around the house, and then we sat down with a nice pot of tea and some biscuits.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ATbikks_zps6a934631.jpg

These are strange biscuits! They look like lace! They come from China and they are normally eaten at Chinese New Year, but they're too yummy to wait until then! They're very crunchy and taste like honey.

Hope you are well.
Love, Anton. xx
apartmentcat


Posted Aug 21, 2013, 11:22 am
Hi Mum!

Today we went to Federation Square in the City. It's the largest and newest public space in the city of Melbourne, finished in 2002. When it first opened, a lot of people thought it was ugly, but there wasn't much new-style architecture in Melbourne then, so people weren't used to it. Most people seem to like it now. A few people still don't like it, but there's not much they can do now! :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs1A_zps4896a6b9.jpg

The main building is the National Gallery of Victoria's modern and Australian art collection. There is also the headquarters for SBS TV Station, and on the roof is an experimental beehive, the Rooftop Honey project. On the other side is the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. (It's a film museum and cinema.)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs7A_zps165f3aa7.jpg


The main square has a huge TV screen which often shows big sporting matches, cultural events or short films from the film museum's collection. The paving on the ground is a huge artwork. The colours and curved surface look like the dunes in the desert.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs5A_zps9db931b3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs6A_zps3ff8240b.jpg

The largest building is covered in sandstone. It's sandy colour also ties in to the desert theme. Every piece of sandstone and glass is a triangle shape, and they all fit in together in a crazy pattern. Host Sister says there's a story that not a single angle in the whole pattern is a square angle. But she's not sure if this is really true! The smaller building on the front corner is covered in zinc metal, which reflects the sky whatever the weather is.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs2_zps814381b5.jpg

At the back is the Atrium. This is the entrance to the Art Gallery. The glass roof is 5 storeys high! The glass wall has two layers, and sometimes there are art displays in the middle. Like an art sandwich! ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs3A_zps819a5626.jpg

The artwork on display at the moment is called '1000 Tears'. Members of the public emailed the artist to tell her their biggest regret, and she wrote them on tears made of paper.
And around the other side was a pretty garden bed full of daffodils.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs4_zps7a44c0ba.jpg

Across the river is the concert hall, the classical art gallery and the botanical gardens. But we'll go there some other time! It's time to go now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fs8A_zps1957450b.jpg

Bye for now!
Love, Anton xx
apartmentcat


Posted Aug 29, 2013, 12:37 pm
Hi Mum!

Today we welcomed Huli Hutu. He comes from the U.S.A., but has travelled from Germany to visit us.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/HHarr1_zpsb7645100.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/HHarr2_zps3b00b8c3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/HHarr3_zps417eef56.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/HHarr4_zpsbcb88228.jpg

Huli Hutu fulfilled one of his life goals in visiting Australia! We had a cupcake to celebrate. It was so yummy!  :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/HHarr5_zpsfc87afd3.jpg

Bye for now!
apartmentcat


Posted Sep 1, 2013, 9:51 am
Hi Mum!

How are you?
Today we did something a little bit different. We voted! Well, Host Sister and Host Brother did. There is an election soon. Time to choose a new Prime Minister, or perhaps keep the old one! ;)
In Australia, voting at elections is compulsory. Everyone aged 18 years and over must vote on election day, or they have to pay a fine. It used to be that everyone had to show up on election day to a polling place to fill out their ballot. How annoying! :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/vote1A_zpsed259e98.jpg

In the last few years it has been allowed to vote by postal vote. The voters go online to request a postal ballot paper, then the papers are sent out in the mail. They're filled out at home and sent back. As long as they're filled out before election day, everything is fine.

Host Sister says voting at home is more convenient, but not as fun! Normally the polling places are at a school. The people running them usually set up a barbeque to raise money for the school. After voting, you can buy a sausage in bread, and sometimes they have a cake stall as well. Host Sister and Host Brother didn't want to miss out on the fun of the barbeque! So we made sausages in bread and sweets at home. Here are the chocolate crackles and honey joys.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/vote2_zpsc5eae87f.jpg

Who are we going to vote for??

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/vote3_zpsf7be4be5.jpg

Wow, this paper is so long! So many to choose from!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/vote4_zpsaf6128ba.jpg

Phew! Now the papers are all filled in and put into the envelopes. We'll take them to the post box tomorrow morning.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/vote5_zpsc9c87365.jpg

Now it's time for another chocolate crackle!
xx
apartmentcat


Posted Oct 2, 2013, 10:25 am
Hi Mum!

I want to say sorry for not updating in so long, but we have been very busy because Host Sister moved house.

Where did all the furniture go??
Bye bye old house!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/move1_zpsd00c019b.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/move2_zps2389e5e7.jpg

Hello new house!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/move3_zps6dc33453.jpg

OK, we found some of the belongings. So many boxes to unpack, wow!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/move4_zps25f3fc09.jpg

Host Sister says we will go for a walk around the new neighbourhood this weekend and see what's here.
Love you!
Anton
xx
apartmentcat


Posted Nov 5, 2013, 12:30 am
Hi Mum!

Yesterday a new friend arrived in Australia.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/colarr1_zpseb307359.jpg

Who can it be?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/colarr2_zpsdb8c9190.jpg

It's a cute bear called Columbus! He's travelled a long way to be here.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/colarr3_zps7dbc5fdf.jpg

Hello Columbus!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/colarr4_zps3ca76b96.jpg

To celebrate the arrival of Columbus, we did some baking. We made the Babka from Host Sister's cooking magazine.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab1a_zps22320bf7.jpg

I think the Babka and things like it are found in many cultures. It is filled with dried fruit and a rum syrup is poured over the top. Here I am mixing the flour and the eggs together.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab2a_zps1b08eb24.jpg

Now the dough is all mixed together and kneaded. Next we need to wait a while so the dough can rise.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab4a_zps666beaab.jpg

Next Host Sister rolled the dough out into a biiiig rectangle. It's so big, maybe we can play football on it!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab5a_zps74eab2b8.jpg

Then we sprinkled the filling over the dough. There are dried apricots, which had been soaked in schnapps for a few hours to make them plump, and some chocolate. Unfortunately in this picture, to me it looks like tomatoes and bits of meat, perhaps chopped roast beef! Am I making a pizza??!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab6a_zps74b65b2c.jpg

Host Sister then rolled the whole thing up into a big log. Smile, everyone!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab7_zps0a8a1ade.jpg

We cut the log up into slices and arranged them in a greased baking tin.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab8a_zps9196f566.jpg

After baking, it doesn't really look like the photo in the magazine, but I'm still going to taste it!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab9a_zps03b788cd.jpg

While the Babka was cooking, Host Sister made a syrup from cherry brandy and sugar. We poured it over the top of the babka buns.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/bab10a_zps303006f2.jpg

It was delicious.
Bye Mum!
apartmentcat


Posted Nov 14, 2013, 10:24 am
Hi Mum!

Today I went to work with Host Sister. Unfortunately the weather wasn't very nice, but we went to see some sights in the City at lunch time anyway. We went to see the "Top End" of the city.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top1a_zpsabce86eb.jpg

Right at the top end of Collins Street is the Old Treasury Building. It was built in 1862 during the Gold Rush times. Miners were digging up so much gold, and the Government earning so much tax from them, that they needed somewhere special to keep all the gold. Of course, they didn't call it the "Old Treasury" then, just the "Treasury"! ;) After the treasury was moved to a new building, it became a museum. Part of it is also the Marriage Registry. Every day there are always lots of couples and family having their photos taken on the steps.

Host Sister says this is where she got married!


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top4a_zpsd84ddc33.jpg


Here we're looking down Collins Street from the Top End. This is also called the "Paris End" of Collins Street, because of the leafy trees and all the international designer stores here (Armani, Gucci, etc.).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top2a_zps6d2649a1.jpg

The centre of Melbourne was built on a grid one mile long and half a mile wide. It slopes from the Government buildings at the top of the hill down to Docklands on the bay. The top end of the city is considered to be the most beautiful. All the old buildings from Gold Rush times are here, most of the theatres and many parks.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top3a_zps00cf6e3b.jpg

Watch out for the trams!



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top6a_zpsf4ba830b.jpg

Next door is the Treasury Gardens. It's a small park, but it's one of the most beautiful in Melbourne. Next to it there are more government buildings. The leader of Victoria (the Premier) has his offices in the closest one.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/top7a_zps89730464.jpg

It's about to rain, time to go back to work!



Bye for now!
Love, Anton xx
apartmentcat


Posted Nov 19, 2013, 9:50 am
Hello!

Today was the birthday of Columbus bear, so we had a party with cake and lollies!
We had a lovely time and the cupcake was really yummy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/P1000587_zps21324df3.jpg

Happy Birthday Columbus!
xx
apartmentcat


Posted Nov 27, 2013, 10:29 am
Hi Mum!

Today we said goodbye to Betty Bear.  She is leaving Australia to go to Alaska in the U.S.A.
We had a lot of fun and we will miss her, but we wish her well on her journey.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBbye1_zpse0b9cbc2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBbye2a_zpsc24030a8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBbye2c_zpsdd5cb5c2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBbye2l_zpscfcd8770.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/BBbye2h_zpsab7e41db.jpg

Love you Mum!
xx Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Dec 2, 2013, 9:42 am
Hi Mum!

Today we welcomed Sally Seal. She's travelled all the way from Germany.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr1_zps0c9bffd7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr2_zpsfa9423bb.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr3_zpsad970b2f.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr4_zpsb31a66fc.jpg

We all gave her a big hug.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr5h_zps2944b2e9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr5c_zps61c87bb8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr5l_zps92c8bd45.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr5a_zps06412195.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr6_zpsf7a06ebd.jpg

I nearly got lost in the grass! But I found this lantern in the garden to help me find my way.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr7a_zps992e21e0.jpg

We had a little party.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/SSarr8_zpsdf8061dd.jpg

Talk to you again soon!
xx Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Dec 12, 2013, 9:36 am
Hi Mum!

Today we went to Fitzroy Gardens. It's a traditional English-style park on the edge of the city. The early pioneers in Melbourne decided that the city should have lots of parks, so Fitzroy Gardens was founded in 1848. There are lots of paths for people to walk on, and interesting things to look at throughout the park.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz1a_zpsd6391488.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz2a_zps8f454132.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz3a_zpsc55d1356.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz4a_zps87632eaa.jpg

Look, off in the distance! A wedding!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz5_zps92356e51.jpg

This is the Model Tudor Village. It's got Shakespeare's House and lots of other buildings. We weren't allowed into the village, but just looked from the edge.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz6a_zps7d2a5f1f.jpg

I'm hiding in the ivy! Can you see me?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/fz7a_zps2ebe7ee5.jpg

I hope you're well, I miss you!
xx Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Dec 26, 2013, 10:15 pm
Hi Mum!

It's the night before Christmas and we're having a Christmas Eve dinner. But first we're going to open some of the presents!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/x1a_zpsb203c407.jpg

For dinner we had roasted vegetables and meats, it was yummy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/x2a_zps264128ac.jpg

Then for dessert we had trifle, a Yule log lamington, and some apricots from Host Sister's tree.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/x3a_zps70a3ce26.jpg

Merry Christmas!

Love from Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Feb 18, 2014, 8:34 am
Hello!

Today we welcomed a new toy, Alien Princes. She travelled all the way from the U.S.A.
It was a very long trip, but now she's here safe and sound.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ap1_zps3e7f9684.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ap2_zps4278cc5a.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ap3_zps73acb77d.jpg

We all gave her a big hug and welcomed her to Australia.
Today we are at work with Host Sister. We also went for a walk in the city. I'll show you photos soon.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/apA_zps3143bdfe.jpg

Love you! xx

Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Feb 23, 2014, 8:40 am
Hi Mum!

Today we went for a walk by the Yarra River. It's been very hot recently, but today was a little cooler so we went out at lunch time. Along this part of the river is the Melbourne Aquarium and Flinders Street Station.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r1a_zpsfcc59082.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r2a_zpsde5bbf7d.jpg

On the far side is Southbank, where a lot of new skyscrapers are being built. There's Eureka Tower, the largest building in Melbourne. A bigger tower has just been approved for building though, so it won't be the tallest for long!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r3a_zps73039487.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r4a_zpsf9dab297.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r6a_zps0b063f5a.jpg

The air was very hazy today, why was that? We checked the new bushfire information website to find out if there are any fires in the state of Victoria at the moment. There are some, but they're far north of here. Host Sister says that no-one was hurt, so that's lucky.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r8a_zps1cd76aa4.jpg

This is the view from the building where Host Sister works. The building on the right is going to be demolished soon. The brown one in the centre is a heritage building that used to be a brewery.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/r9a_zpsdc98629a.jpg


See you again soon!
Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Feb 26, 2014, 8:32 am
Hi Mum!

Today we said goodbye to Sally Seal. She is travelling to a new host in California.
We all gave her a big hug before she climbed into her bag.
Bye Sally!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ssbye2_zps42282464.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ssbye3a_zpsd3234a9a.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/ssbye4_zps061c52d9.jpg

Love,
Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Mar 4, 2014, 7:56 am
Hi Mum!

Today we welcomed Bernie Bear, who has travelled all the way from China to visit.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs7-1_zpsd2099113.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs7-2_zpse00c8a71.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs7-3_zpsb39ede9c.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs7-4_zps3d9ba96e.jpg

To celebrate, we baked some vegemite and cheese scrolls!
Here is the dough in the breadmaker.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs1c_zps292b50dd.jpg

We tipped the dough out of the tin and pressed it flat.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs2a_zps7911fbc2.jpg

Then we made it into a rectangle shape and spread Vegemite and cheese all over it.
The Vegemite smelled disgusting, but Host Sister says it's delicious. I don't know about that!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs3a_zpscf022e28.jpg

Then we rolled the dough up, cut it into scrolls and put them in the baking tin.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs4a_zpsb32f2fd0.jpg

Here they are cooked. Wow, they grew so much bigger!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs5a_zps2aab5fae.jpg

We all enjoyed the bread straight out of the oven with some butter on it. Yum!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/chs6a_zps9d129a02.jpg

Talk to you soon!
Anton
apartmentcat


Posted Mar 10, 2014, 9:43 am
Hi Mum!


Today we said goodbye to Lotta. She is travelling to Canada.
She had a lovely time here and we wish her well.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/P1000946_zps971445b2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/ToyVoyagers/P1000948_zps103d7738.jpg

Talk to you soon,
Love,
Anton

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