olgamaus Posted Mar 29, 2009, 12:52 pm |
Hello to everyone,
I'm Twix, a hoggish rat. I'd like to visit you if you have time to feed me with local delicacies. Despite of my potbelly I'm a lightweight. I'd like to start my journey soon because I raided my host's sweets yesterday. So I hope to get my first invitation soon. My itinerary: AnjaM, Germany maelle, Belgium Delenna, Finland RikeH, Germany Luv Lioness, USA Bye Twix |
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olgamaus Posted Mar 30, 2009, 2:38 pm |
Today I went to town with Katja. The sun was shining. We went to the shopping centre to buy some sweets.
This is the town hall, and this is the main entrance of the shopping mall. These giant forceps are a symbol for the tool producing industry which made Remscheid famous. We are back home now. We've bought some really good sweets. I'm helping Katja to prepare my envelope. Anja from Frankfurt is already waiting for me. I want to take all the sweets with me, but Katja says that this is too much. A few sweets must do, she says. The jelly bears? No, they do not fit into the envelope. Than maybe the package of twix bars? Too much, too. Katja says I can take TWO twix bars with me, one for Anja and one for me. Okay, I'm ready now. Anja, I'm coming! Bye Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Mar 31, 2009, 9:18 pm |
Hi Mommy,
I have arrived safe and sound in Anja's house today and Anja was glad to welcome me and the nice things I brought with me: I think I will like it there! Anja has so many nice ratty things: rat sofa cushions rat cups a rat bowl all kinds of ratty nicknacks and even a rat candle! After she showed me all these nice things, we had a little snack Would you believe Anja actually ate the second Twix bar??? Ok, ok, you packed it for her, but I thought she might give it to me. Fat chance! If you look closely at the picture, you can see that she actually ate it! Now it is time to go to sleep, Anja said, but she also said that pretty soon I will meet "the boys". I really wonder who the boys are.... Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 2, 2009, 11:26 am |
..... yawn... stretch... uaaaaaaaaa..yawn....
Hi folks, I just woke up, it's 12:30 noon now - just a nice time to wake up. I've had such an exciting day yesterday!!! No wonder I slept in this morning! I hope that Anja will give me access to the PC again tonight, so that I can tell you all about it! Tired regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 2, 2009, 9:00 pm |
A Day at the Office
Hi Mommy, now I will tell you about the exciting day I had yesterday. Yesterday, on the 1st of April, Anja woke me up early. "Rise and shine, little Twix," she said to me, "we're going to the office. You will have to work for a living while you're staying at my house!" Work? Bleah, I have never worked a day in my life, and I don't intend to start now! But Anja bundled me into her car, and off we went. This woman sure likes rats, she even has rats in her car: While Anja was driving, she told me how she had prepared a little desk, a little chair and even a little PC, so that I could work at the office to earn my keep . Yuck, work! So when we got to the office, I jumped out of Anja's arms and hid in a potted plant Anja burst out laughing. "April Fool's, little Twix!" she hollered. "Of course you don't have to work, you're my guest! I only took you to the office to show you around!" Wow, was I relieved!!! I had completely forgotten that it was the 1st of April, April Fools Day! So I came out of the potted plant and I met Anja's colleague Julia who showed me a map of Germany and where I am right now At noon, Anja shared her lunch with me (a kind of goulash) and introduced me to Nicole and Arzu at the Reception What nice ladies! I could cuddle with them all day long! Then we took a little walk around the office building (this is Anja, by the way, all dressed up for work) It was such a lovely, sunny spring day! After lunch, a nice colleague came by with a present for Anja and then Anja introduced me to "her colleague, the witch with her crystal ball" , whom she always consults when somebody expects her to read his mind In the afternoon, there was even a birthday party at the office, with lots of nice sweets and I got to eat a whole piece of apple cake all by myself! Finally, it was quitting time, and as we went to Anja's car in the underground parking garage, we admired some of the nice cars that people drive Finally we got back home. Boy, was I tired after that exciting day!!! But before I went to sleep, Anja gave me the money that I earned during my day at the office So, Mommy, now I am rich, and when I get back home, I'll take you out to dinner! Hugs and kisses Twix the hardworking millionaire |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 3, 2009, 7:05 pm |
Hi Mommy,
this morning, Anja took me to the Rathaus (city hall) of Oberursel, to have me registered as a legal resident. This Rathaus is nice: they even have an old English phone booth in there! They welcomed me as a new resident of Oberursel and gave me a nice brochure and a map: This is what Oberursel looks like on a signpost: What am I doing in Oberursel, you ask? Well, Anja told a fib! She does not live in Frankfurt at all, but in the small town of Oberursel, about 10 miles north of Frankfurt. But nobody know Oberursel, Anja says, and everybody knows Frankfurt, so she always says she lives in Frankfurt. On a clear day, you can see the skyline of Frankfurt from Anja's balcony, including the pointy tip of the Messeturm (exhibition tower) Speaking of balcony: As it is a beautiful spring day today, Anja and I relaxed on the balcony in the sun when she came home from work Relaxed regards Twix new resident of Oberursel |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 4, 2009, 7:20 pm |
A Lazy Day with Good Food
Hi Mommy, today is Saturday, so Anja did not have to go to work, and we stayed home and had a nice, lazy day with some good food. We slept long, and then we had a nice breakfast of cinnamon rolls and cappucino with hazelnut sirup. And with milk foam from a can! The things people come up with! But it tasted quite good. I ate all my breakfast and drank all my coffee. Ah, that was good! Later, after lying in the sun on the balcony in Anja's new lawnchairs, we had a nice snack: Korean Cup of Noodles Soup. Anja said it doesn't taste much different from normal Cop of Noodles soup, just with a little of Asian flavoring. I liked it! Have you noticed? Anja has set aside a little cup, a little plate and a little bowl for me, to use while I am her guest. As these things are just about half as big as I am, and she always fills them up, I certainly get well fed here! Content regards Twix P.S. If you wonder about the syringe in the background: so did I. But Anja assured me that she does not use it herself. Instead it is for the boys, she said. I really wonder about these boys! |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 5, 2009, 10:39 pm |
The Boys!
Hi Mommy, today I finally got to meet the mysterious "boys". And do you know what they turned out to be? Pet rats, just like I am! But the boys are much bigger than I am! First I got to meet Athos, a big huge Siamese rat: He challenged me to a wrestling match, and I lost Then I got to meet his brother Aramis, another Siamese rat. He also challenged me to a wrestling match, and I lost Then Athos AND Aramis wrestled me together Needless to say: I lost What rough, tough boys!!! All they do is wrestle me to the ground!!! I liked their friend Porthos, the husky rat, much more, he was more gentle Then I met Anja's other two boys, the elderly black hooded rats Hawkey and Dick. They were really nice! Hawkey was particularly friendly, he even gave me a kiss on the head when he welcomed me to the house and to the family Well, now I know why Anja has so many ratty things. It's because she likes rats! And I thought it was all to welcome me... Ah well, I think I like the boys. Unless, of course, they invite me to another wrestling match... Best regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 7, 2009, 9:01 pm |
Hi Mommy,
today Anja's friend Dirk invited her over, and I tagged along. Dirk has a nice garden and a parakeet called Piddy and he just bought a mini donut maker which we wanted to try out. First we made a batter of flour, milk, oil, baking powder, eggs and sugar and then we filled it into the holes in the mini donut maker After a few minutes, the mini donuts were ready and we could enjoy them Ah, they were so good!!! Mommy, you did right to send me to Anja's house! This is heaven for a rat who likes to eat! Well-fed regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 8, 2009, 9:39 pm |
Hi Mommy,
just a short update today: On Friday, Anja and I are going on vacation!!! We are going to visit a friend of Anja's in Gütersloh, which is close to Bielefeld. Wow, I've never been on vacation before!!! And we will take a train, an ICE (Inter City Express, a really fast train that goes up to 320 kilometers - about 200 miles - an hour!). Anja has a car, but she does not like driving such long distances. It's about 300 km - 187 miles - but complicated driving, not just along one autobahn (highway). Wow, I'm so excited! I get to ride a train!!! Excited regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 12, 2009, 10:55 pm |
Hi Mom,
Anja and I have arrived well in Gütersloh to visit Anja's friends Katja and Jens. I'll tell you more about our journey soon. For today, I'd like to wish you Happy Easter! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 18, 2009, 9:34 pm |
Train trip on the ICE
Hi Mommy, now Anja and I have returned home, and I finally find the time to tell you all about our vacation and our trip to Gütersloh on the ICE (Inter City Express train). And I mean Express! But you will see, Mommy Friday, 10 April 09 was a German holiday (Good Friday), so Anja and I slept in, packed our suitcase and then set off to the train station. Anja lives close to the S-Bahn (subway train that goes underground in the city of Frankfurt and above ground outside the city), so we took the S-Bahn to Frankfurt train station. It was a beautiful sunny day, and we admired the lovely flowers and plants You have to walk down this street full of nice old houses and at the end of the street, there is the S-Bahn stop Here comes our S-Bahn This is a plan of the Frankfurt S-Bahn and U-Bahn trains. Holy Maloney, Mommy, I certainly find this confusing!!! I looked out of the window (can you find the Messeturm, Mommy? ) until the S-Bahn finally went underground, and we had to get off at the main train station (Hauptbahnhof, in short: Hbf) The first thing Anja did was buy some food (did I tell you I love this lady? ) and I got to meet some German train station attendants Then I finally got to see a real ICE approaching!!! Wow!!! Looks like a space rocket, don't you think? (and Anja told me these things are almost as fast, too ) Now it was time to go onto the platform and to board our train Soon the train started moving and soon everything was flying by When we got bored looking out of the window, we shared the sandwich that Anja had bought and when we had to change trains, Anja had a cigarette in the designated smoking area on the platform Then we had to change trains in Bielefeld again and it was already getting dusk, so Anja could not take any pictures of Gütersloh when we arrived there. Finally we arrived at Katja's and Jens' house, where we were greeted with a nice snack and a very tasty dark German beer What an exciting day!!! I was dog ... uhm .. rat tired, and I went to sleep soon after our snack. But I will write again very soon to tell you about all the nice food I had and all the nice things I saw in Gütersloh! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 18, 2009, 11:06 pm |
A Day in the City - and my new friends
Hi Mommy, well, you know what happened in Gütersloh? I told Wusch the frog and Garry the duck of my adventures as a toy voyager, and now they are toy voyagers, too, and they travel with me and Anja! And we did not only eat and drink in Gütersloh, we also went shopping and saw something of the city. First we went to a place called Hornbach, a home improvement store. They have everything for the house - building materials, bathroom fixtures, paint etc. and even plants. This is what we came for: plants for the balcony. They have such lovely plants, we felt as if we were in a beautiful park. They even had T-Shirts, but they were not in our size, unfortunately After the home improvement store, we went downtown and Anja took a good swig from a bottle of lemonade, it was a very warm day We got to see some nice houses That day, it was market day, so we went to the market. They had everything - fruit, vegetables, German asparagus (German people eat the white version), dried fruit, nuts, and even socks and household goods. When we got home, we unpacked all our purchases and then we had a nice dinner of Wurstebrei (also called Stippgrütze, a Gütersloh specialty made of ground meat, spices and a kind of grain. It is usually eaten with potatoes) First I was not so sure about that stuff, but it is actually quite delicious! Oh, and Anja bought a new purse, big enough to hold us toy voyagers!!! It was on sale in the city, and we find it very comfortable! What an exciting day! And what nice new friends! Garry and Wusch are now travelling with me and Anja! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 21, 2009, 10:26 pm |
Handkäs mit Musik
Hi Mommy, today, Anja introduced me and the two other toy voyagers staying here to a real specialty from the state of Hessen: Handkäs mit Musik! This literally translates into "hand cheese with music". Weird, but you'll see... Anja was too lazy to make it herself, so she bought it packaged: When you unpack it, you find three big slices of a cheese that smells like ... sorry ... old socks and a small cup of vinegar and oil dressing with onions You pour the dressing and the onions onto the cheese and then you eat it all, usually with bread and butter and you drink apple wine or beer with it. Looks weird, but it is quite tasty! And "hand cheese with music" means: the cheese is so small you can take it in your hand... and after you eat all the onions, you will "make some music" sooner or later. Hessian regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 22, 2009, 9:58 pm |
A new guest: Sweetsy!
Hi Mommy, today, a small padded envelope arrived, and Anja got all excited. "Here comes a new Toy Voyager, a new guest in my house!" she said to us, "his name is Sweetsy and he is soo cute!" Sweetsy? Hm... I always like sweets! So I sniffed the envelope, and Garry and Wusch crowded around it, too. Anja opened up the envelope, and out came Sweetsy! He really is cute, so we gave him a warm welcome. He shared with us the goodies that he brought, and we treated him to some Twix bars. He also brought a nice picture postcard of a railroad bridge close to Remscheid, where his former host Katja lives, and a "warning" from Katja that he will help us decimate the baking ingredients in the house What a nice guy! I think we'll have lots of fun! By the way, Mommy, I finally got proof that I fulfilled a part of my missions: I ate a Twix bar in 1 country - Germany, Frankfurt (or rather Oberursel ) at Anja's house! Happy regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 28, 2009, 11:11 pm |
A new guest: Harold Giraffe!
Hi Mommy, we got all excited today: another toy voyager arrived! Anja carried up a small envelope to the apartment when she came home from work. Of course, we all shouted: "Who's that, Anja? Another toy voyager to keep us company? Open it up, open it up!" "Hold your horses!" Anja said, "I have to open the envelope gently, don't want to scare the little guy!" Then the envelope was opened, and out came Harold Giraffe! Here you can see Harold taking a first glance at us: Sweetsy the gingerbread man, myself, Wusch the frog and Garry the duck: We all got a snack of Twix bars (my favorite snacks) and then we told each other stories of our travels until Anja sent us to bed. Aren't we a nice group? Harold is cute, isn't he? And he has travelled so far already!!! I think we'll still do a little talking in bed Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted Apr 29, 2009, 10:47 pm |
German white wine: Riesling
Hi Mommy, this evening, Anja had a friend over, and they opened a bottle of wine. It was Riesling, a nice German white wine, not too dry and not too sweet, and just perfect with a meal or to drink chilled on a warm evening. The two ladies seemed to enjoy it, so of course, we wanted a sip, too. Ah, quite tasty!!! Wow, Mommy, let me tell you, we toy voyagers are not used to alcohol, so when we had finished our small glass, it made us very very tipsy! So Anja fixed us up with some Alka Seltzer and told us to stay off the booze Well, let's see about that After all, we've heard Anja talking about apple wine, a specialty of the German state of Hessen.... Tipsy regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 4, 2009, 8:21 pm |
Medieval Fair and Market at the Ronneburg
Hi Mommy, today, Anja went to visit friends for a long weekend (1st of May weekend). The friends live in Gelnhausen, approx. 40 km east of Frankfurt. Anja and her friends visited a medieval fair and market at the Ronneburg, and they took us TVs along.
The weather was beautiful, the rapeseed was blossoming everywhere, and soon we saw the castle Ronneburg Anja and her friends scared us poor TVs, threatening to lock us in the stocks , but then they took us along after all. There were a lot of booths selling nice things and of course there was a campfire and food and drink A lot of people were dressed up in medieval clothes. Some of them looked scary at first, but they were all quite nice! We wandered around, enjoying the view and the fair and the shows, and of course the ladies did some shopping I wanted a beautiful dress, too, like many ladies were wearing, but Anja said it would not fit me After the last show, we went home, but Anja said we would return the next day. Wow, we were all excited! Because with all the shopping and browsing and enjoying the shows, we had not even been INSIDE the castle yet! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 4, 2009, 9:19 pm |
Ronneburg, medieval fair and market - and the inside of the castle!
Hi Mommy, like Anja promised, she and her friends took us back to the Ronneburg today, because we did so much shopping and browsing and partying yesterday that we did not even get to see the inside of the castle Of course, we were all eager to see the inside of the castle! But first, there were other interesting things to see. Close to the parking lot, there were some people hanggliding. Boah, this would scare the living daylights out of me!!! Then, in front of the entrance, there was a guy with a "quad", one of these 4-wheel recreational vehicles. This would be more my case, and that is what my furry friends said, too Anja and her friends were also really interested! Of course, we got to ride it, too! Neat!!!! But now on to the castle!!! Excited regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 4, 2009, 10:01 pm |
Ronneburg - the inside of the castle! (finally )
Hi Mommy, now we finally got to see the inside of the castle! And it was really exciting! In the castle gate, they sold swords and tiny toys, just about the size of me There were some really nice people, all dressed up in medieval clothes and then we finally got to see all the historical stuff! An old piece of armor a smithy and the smith's tools a spinning wheel, where you make wool an old cannon a perfect fit, isn't it? The castle yard and another stocks the weapons chamber the castle kitchen where we got to taste some spiced wine (delicious!) some nice furniture and wall hangings and even a picture of the count! In the castle, there was even an apothecary's store and a chapel We all loved the miniatures of daily life in the middle ages! and the miniature of the great castle fire of the 17th century After so much history, we just needed a break!!! So we wandered in the castle gardens, admiring a peacock doing some more shopping and meeting beautiful ladies in self made costumes who even did a dance for us! Well, not for us alone... but we enjoyed it very much! On the way back to the car, we even saw an old wooden trailer Wow, what a day!!! We went straight to bed when we got back! But it sure was worth it! Hugs and kisses Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 9, 2009, 11:37 pm |
Medieval Market in Oppenheim
Hi Mommy, today, Anja and her friends went to another medieval market - this time in Oppenheim, in Rhineland-Palatinate. The first thing we saw was a booth selling gingerbread! Our little friend Sweetsy was in heaven! And - would you believe it - he ate the whole piece of gingerbread all by himself!!! Look at the smile on his face! This was a lovely market, and we saw many nice things: placques made of stone (Anja bought the dragon that is hanging on the wall) knights the size of us and many dragons Would you believe Anja actually fed me to a dragon???? But thank goodness the dragon was not hungry! So we could go on to enjoy the sights. Musicians a medieval tent city where many people actually stayed the weekend a demonstration of the weapons of the time a lady playing the harp a shield with nordic writing and a suit of chainmail. Would you believe such a suit of chainmail consists of about 36.000 rings??? And it takes one person two weeks to make, if he has lots of practice. Then we had some nice food. Stuffed pork roast with garlic sauce, a salad and a roll - and a drink called "Radler", which is a mixture of beer and Sprite. Quite tasty! Later on, it started to rain, so we all had to stay in Anja's rucksack. This was nice and dry, but of course we could not see anything... What a lovely day! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 12, 2009, 7:01 pm |
A Day in the Taunus
Dear Mommy, today, Anja and her friends took us to the Taunus, a beautiful wooded area a little north of Frankfurt. It was a beautiful spring day, and I really enjoyed the lovely nature of the Taunus. First, we went to Hattenbacher Weiher, a bathing lake near Wehrheim in the Taunus. Of course, it was too cold to bathe, but we enjoyed our stay nevertheless. This is Sara, the daughter of Anja's friend Angelina. Sara fell in love with us TVs immediately, and she found the nicest places for us to enjoy the lovely nature and to have our picture taken. It was so lovely there! The sun was shining, the grass was green, and flowers and blossoms were everywhere! Ah, what joy to sit in these beautiful flowers and enjoy the sun! How nice to enjoy the blossoming trees and then cool down in the shade After a nice rest in the midst of the lovely flowers, it was time to go on, because we were going to have a barbeque and still had to do some shopping. Tell you more soon! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 12, 2009, 7:36 pm |
A Barbecue in the Taunus
Hi Mommy, after our lovely time at the Hattenbacher Weiher lake, we drove on, because we were going to have a barbecue, also in the Taunus. Wusch went shopping for all of us and then we went on to a farm where we rested (again ) on a comfortable tree and on a real haystack Then we carefully watched the preparation of the food and then it was time for dinner!!! After we ate all the food - and left just a little for Anja and her friends - it was time to go home, and Anja drove us home on a real German Autobahn! What a lovely, sunny, exciting day! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 12, 2009, 7:39 pm |
Relaxing in the Sun
Say, Mommy, will this do for one of my missions: relaxing in the sun? I sure enjoyed it! Lazy regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 12, 2009, 9:32 pm |
A Day for me alone!
Hi Mommy, Anja told me that I will continue my journey this week, and that I'll be going on to Maelle in Belgium. As a special treat to me, her first Toy Voyager guest, Anja served me particularly nice food today. First, she took me out for Korean food We had Kim Bab (a kind of rolled up sushi) with a salad of bean sprouts Did you see this, Mommy? I can even eat with chopsticks!!! Then, at home, we shared a snack. I finally got to drink the famous Hessian apple wine and eat a pretzel! Aaaaaah, tasty stuff!!! Satisfied regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 15, 2009, 9:25 pm |
A Lazy Day
Hi Mommy, today was beautiful sunshine, and we all spent the day on Anja's balcony, enjoying the lovely weather. This is the view from the kitchen window and this is the view from the balcony on a lovely spring day Here we are enjoying a snack on the lawn chair and poking our nose into Anja's book Anja said she felt like a real "daughter of the sun" enjoying a rest on the lawnchair with her book. But she would not let us take any pictures of her.... Sunny regards Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 15, 2009, 10:04 pm |
A Going Away Party for me!
Hi Mommy, Anja told me I would soon travel to Maelle in Belgium. So Anja and my friends, the other TV's threw a going away party for me. Anja got us some real Hessian and Southern German specialties for the party: Apple wine, the Hessian special drink and Laugenbrötchen (lye rolls). OK, lye rolls sounds disgusting, and the dough is really dipped in food-grade lye, but these are really really tasty! Lye Pretzel recipe
Source However that may be, once the rolls or pretzels are baked, they are safe to eat, and they are delicious. Of course, the apple wine was tasty, too After our dinner, my friends the other TVs had a surprise for me. They had secretly bought me a piece of strawberry cake! Of course, I insisted on sharing it with them What a lovely party! Happy regards Twix |
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maelle Posted May 22, 2009, 10:18 am |
Hello mom, I arrived safe in Belgium after a small journey which does not have to last for a long time.
I have meet Dottie Mouse and Wieka as well as Pynx which arrived today at the same time as I. I think that I am going to spend good moments here. You misses me mom. See you later |
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AnjaM Posted May 22, 2009, 11:30 am |
Hi Mommy,
my time with Anja is over now, and I have left for Belgium to spend time with my new host, Maelle. I'm all excited! Hugs Twix |
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AnjaM Posted May 27, 2009, 11:16 pm |
A Trip Around the World
Hi Mommy, tooday, Anja took us on a trip around the world! First, we took the S-Bahn (subway) from Oberursel-Stierstadt, where Anja lives and then we took an ICE train. As I have taken a train trip with Anja before, I did not take any pictures this time. Finally, the train stopped, and we all got out. What the heck was this? We were in China! We had come to a place called Kota Radja! It had a very nice city wall but it was guarded by a terrible dragon, who tried to eat me! (Will you please tell Anja to stop feeding me to dragons all the time! ) Thank goodness a nice Buddha rescued me! And he allowed me to see the city and the beautiful flowers We even got to play with a lion! It sure was exciting in China, but I was still a little scared of this hungry dragon, so I didn't mind it when we left. But then we got out of the frying pan, and into the fire. Because next we went to India, to the Temple of Rats! Ooooh, look at the nasty rats guarding the place!!! They scared the living daylights out of me, but they told me they don't eat TVs. What a relief! The other rats there were much nicer! We found a band of rats that played music for us and finally we had fun and played games with some funny rats What an exciting day!!! All around the world in just one day!!! .... Well Mommy, I must admit I told a fib: we did not go to China and India at all, but instead to Anja's friend Ratta in Hagen, where we played with Ratta's rat collection and visited a Chinese restaurant But it was a fun day nevertheless! Hugs Twix |
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maelle Posted May 29, 2009, 4:58 pm |
Hello mom, yesterday we told goodbye to Wieka because she leaves to her next host.
She is going to miss me!! We made last photos all together. Look as they are beautiful. See you later mom |
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maelle Posted Jun 1, 2009, 2:48 pm |
Hello mom, the weather is very beautiful in Belgium, the sun shines.
With Dottie Mouse and Pynx, we sunbathed outside. This evening we are going to look Welcome to at them of chti. You miss me mom. |
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maelle Posted Jun 12, 2009, 1:35 pm |
Hello mom, sorry not to have given you of my news front but Maëlle studies for these exam.
Last week, we made some bungee jumping. It was great. It is me who had least fear thus I began. It was BRILLIANT! Later, it was in Dottie Mouse's tour which also a lot liked. At the beginning, Pynx did not want to jump but we reassured him and he made it. It was a last very good moment together. See you later mom. |
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maelle Posted Jun 15, 2009, 1:14 pm |
Hello mom, today we helped Maëlle to study her English.
See you later mom |
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maelle Posted Jun 17, 2009, 4:00 pm |
Hello mom, today, I told goodbye to Dottie Mouse, she returns at home. I gave her a small word for you. I also met Aliah who wants to become a new traveler. I told her how it took place. We looked at all the photos that we set together.
See you later mom |
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maelle Posted Jun 24, 2009, 10:53 am |
Hello mom, yesterday I went to walk alone with Maëlle.
We took some beautiful photos. We looked after strawberries and we found there that the only one. Then, when I returned at home. Maëlle, Pynx ,me and by means of Aliah we made beautiful necklaces. Today, new toyvoyagers two arrived home. It is Misko and Noelle. I promised to Noelle to be a host check for her. See you later mom. Ps: I am satisfied to know that Dottie Mouse is brought in at home with my small word. |
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maelle Posted Jun 28, 2009, 7:46 pm |
Hello mom, on Friday a new toyvoyager arrived. It is kiwi Ken.
We wished him a good stay in Belgium. With Maëlle, we made a small do-it-yourself to make a game. I am delighted to make it this game. It is to celebrate the arrival of Noëlle, Kiwi Ken and Misko. See you later mom |
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maelle Posted Jul 5, 2009, 12:03 pm |
Hello mom, yesterday we made a feast for the arrival of Noelle, Kiwi Ken and Misko.
- In the first place, we made two teams: red and whites. I was in the white team. - Secondly, we played mastermind. Both first ones to play were Noëlle and Twix. Twix won in 5 knocks. Later, Misko to play against Kiwi Ken. Misko won in 7 knocks. It is thus, Twix who takes away the first one with 1 point for the white team. - Thirdly, we played cards. It was Aliah and Misko against Pynx and Twix. It is the team of Aliah and Misko that wins brought back doing 1 point to the red team there. - Fourthly, we played the snakes and ladders and it is the goose of Kiwi Ken who wins, what makes won 1 point to the white team. Result: 2-1 for the white team which wins the big game. |
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maelle Posted Jul 13, 2009, 4:08 pm |
Hello mom, Maëlle works for the moment and has a lot of time.
I show you some photos of the village. Kisses |
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maelle Posted Jul 19, 2009, 11:34 am |
Hello mom,
I am ready, I made my suitcase. We leave within two hours direction the sea. We go to Westende. Do not worry about me, everything will take place well. I return on July 31st. I miss you |
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maelle Posted Jul 30, 2009, 9:42 pm |
Hello mom, I finally came back from the sea.
We spent beautiful moments. Just before leaving, a new traveler arrived. It is Bella-Bo! I show you her coming and some photos of the sea. You will have more news later. Kisses |
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maelle Posted Jul 31, 2009, 11:46 am |
Hello mom, I still show you some photos of the sea.
See you later Kisses |
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maelle Posted Aug 1, 2009, 3:17 pm |
To Westende, there was of the sun, in westende, it was great! | ||
maelle Posted Aug 3, 2009, 3:22 pm |
Hello mom, I show you the last photos of the sea.
Kisses |
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maelle Posted Aug 6, 2009, 12:45 pm |
Hello mom, Today Milala arrived.
She brought the sun with her! We have a little played together. I would give you more news later. Kisses |
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maelle Posted Aug 10, 2009, 5:03 pm |
Hello mom,
to celebrate the arrival of Milala and soon the departure of Twix.We made a small feast the subject of which was hearts and butterflies (the pink and the red). Kisses |
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maelle Posted Aug 12, 2009, 11:28 am |
Hello mom, today I told goodbye to quite my friends because I leave for Finland.
They are going to miss me a lot. I hope to see again them in another country and to share still full of adventure with them. Aurevoir ! Twix |
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maelle Posted Aug 12, 2009, 11:29 am |
Mom, I show you my photos preferred.
In later in Finland. Kisses |
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Delenna Posted Oct 7, 2009, 1:32 pm |
Hello! I have arrived in rainy and windy Finland. Let's see... where's the kitchen - I'm starving from my long journey! Wait! What's this - yummy *nom nom nom nom* Oh, sorry, my host didn't have time to take a photo before I ate all Twix-bars | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 9, 2009, 10:15 am |
I got to do some sightseeing allready! I visited the Old Town of Porvoo. Actually I walked the riverbank and saw the famous red shorehouses from different angles. In the second last photo are some new "shorehouses" that were designed to resemble the old ones. In the very first photo you can see the Castle Hill from far, we'll visit it closer later. | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 11, 2009, 6:54 am |
After the Old Town we checked out the market fair at the market place. The fair went on several blocks - all the way down the riverbank. We had time to check the "upper level" only. People sell all sorts of stuff there; food, clothes, toys, ornaments, jewellry, balloons, postcards... It was so crowded it was hard to take photos. The same kind of fair is held annually in the autumn and in the spring. | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 11, 2009, 7:13 am |
Friday is sauna-day in my hostfamily. They have their own sauna like the majority of Finns have. We took some pics before they'd heat the sauna up as the steam wouldn't allow us take good photos. That's also why the thermometr shows normal indoor temperature. My host says a good sauna heat would be +60...+80 degrees Celcius. But that's her opinion. There are even competitions during summer - who lasts longest in sauna when the heat rises. The Finns have even a Sauna Society!
Basically it works so that people get naked, take a shower to get wet - go sit in sauna (throw some water on hot stones if want it hotter) - wash themselves afterwards. It's really relaxing and cleanes you from the inside (as the sweating pushes all dirt out). In public saunas (like in the swimming halls and hotels) women and men go in separate saunas. In private saunas you can do as you like. |
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Delenna Posted Oct 13, 2009, 11:15 am |
Today we went to the main library in Porvoo. It's a big red building with tons of books We went to the children's department first and I got to read different kinds of Moomin books. Did you know that the first Moomins were meant to adults more than kids? For example because in the early, original Moomins Moominpappa drinks whisky and smokes! Did you also know that Tove Jansson didn't draw much Moomins after 1958? Yep, I read that ina book! Her brother took over as she was too busy with Moomins - she wanted to continue write and draw other stuff finally.
They had all sorts of fun decorations to amuse the kids; a small house, a huge ant on the roof, a Gulliver, dolls from different part of the world, live fish... Upstairs was a music department and an "archive" (a study room). There was also those miniature displays of a harbour near my host's home - displaying how there used to look. Upstairs we also got a good look on the "adult" book department. We spent about 2 hours in the library and you know what happened during that time too? It started snowing! It was the first snow this "winter"! |
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Delenna Posted Oct 16, 2009, 6:37 pm |
Field trip! On the other side of this municipality, in a small village, there's this Miniature World. It's situated in a former carpentry workshop. It's owned by a christian organization that helps people with alcohol problems. They have this social company where people then make these miniature models and other small projects.
The miniture dioramas were so cool! And they make more all the time - so it's a constantly growing exhibition I saw the Titanic, Pisa Cathedral, the leaning tower of Pisa, Vyborg Castle, shots from Finnish wars, lighthouses, Kolumbus' ships... That was in the first room. They have this other room where they had a whole city! They had put Golden Gate Bridge, Eiffel Tower and a Finnish castle in one place There was also the Colosseum, several Cathedrals (see, there's even a wedding going on in one!), the Rocky Mountains - and a railroad driving round the whole thing! In my eyes they were huge, but I am a small rat so... And they were smaller than the real ones |
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Delenna Posted Oct 17, 2009, 5:47 pm |
Thank goodness! They do eat sweets here! I was getting worried... Apparently my host eats candy only on Fridays
So, there I was, sitting on her candy (she said she'd share with me!) when all the other tv's in the house ran to me and wanted me to share with them too. There wasn't much left after that... So, I tried again with chips and dip - but guess what: the others came and wanted to have their share too. Again! Is nothing enough for these guys? Fine, fine, I shared... We watched Buffy the Vampire Slayer on dvd while we feasted |
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Delenna Posted Oct 18, 2009, 6:57 am |
Affter a sweet Friday I was up to some sightseeing! We went to the Castle Hill like my host had promised earlier. On this hill used to be a wooden castle/fortress in the 14th century. Nothing more is left than the hill and castle moats. They had done some archeological diggings in 1886 and 1971 on the hill and found tools, weapons and foundations. Also the flora on the hill reveals something as the plants can't be found in many places in Finland. The water level of the river was much higher those days, when vikings and others sailed the seas and rivers. Oh, and the name Porvoo is Borgå in Swedish - and that means "castle river"! borg=castle, å=river
Nowadays it's a tourist attraction and a good place to play Robin Hood! And to take photos |
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Delenna Posted Oct 18, 2009, 7:00 am |
My host must've still been high on yesterday's sugar as she made us climb another hill! This one is the local downhill skiing center and situated a few kilometers down the river (from the Castle Hill). You can see the roof of the church in the last photo (the big, black roof abit left from the center). The views were nice but it stopped being fun when it started raining...
PS. This hill is called "The Pimple" by serious downhill skiiers, because it's so small |
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Delenna Posted Oct 18, 2009, 7:05 am |
We were all quite hyper, I admit... We ended the day with jumping in a pile of leaves - and then throwing them at each other We were quite tired in the evening | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 19, 2009, 8:03 pm |
What a wonderful suprise! It snowed when we woke up - and this time the snow stayed for a few hours. Just enough time for us (me, Leonard, Banyo and BellaKitten) to make a snowman I think we did a good job It's easy when you have friends to do it with you | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 25, 2009, 12:57 pm |
Today we spent hours in an "indoor playgroung". This place is called HopLop and it's great fun! There are slides and bouncy castles and a huge "maze" and... Lots to do! I was all sweaty when we finished. I was hungry too! We did eat cheese hamburgers in the middle but my host remembered too late that she could take a photo | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 25, 2009, 1:16 pm |
Early in the morning we drove to Helsinki, to see the Stamp Fair. It was quite small but stamps don't need much room, do they? That big box full of stamps was my host's favorite - you could choose as much as you could fit in a small envelope with only 1 euro! She spent about 45 minutes choosing the stamps We did have a look at the stamps that were on display. | ||
Delenna Posted Oct 25, 2009, 1:24 pm |
After the Stamp Fair we moved on the other side of Messukeskus, to the Book Fair. You can probably guess that there were tons and tons of books We followed the interview of Mauri Kunnas, a famous Finnish author who makes children's books mostly - but those books are loved by adults too. His books are translated in several languages.
Later we saw the Moomins! And last but not least a musical show with Pekka Töpöhäntä, a cat with no tail - and his friends. Both Moomins and Pekka Töpöhäntä (or Pelle Svanslös in the original language which is Swedish) are loved children's books. We didn't buy much books, just a few children's books and a few comic books. Our feet were killing us from all the walking, but it was worth it! Especially the ice cream I had |
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Delenna Posted Nov 5, 2009, 10:13 am |
Halloween! Treats!! Candies!!!
Or at least I thought so when I heard my host was going to a Hallloween disco in the local school, to organize a "Fear Factor" with other adults. She was responsible for bringing the scary music (wolves howling, Dracula and Aliens soundtracks) and making "poison spider box" and "teeth&bones" box - they were really just yarn and pasta! But the kids who were supposed to put their hands in if dared didn't know that... It sounded so much fun - especially the buffet she mentioned... but she didn't take any of us with her! What a disppointment! She will have to make up for this... |
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Delenna Posted Nov 9, 2009, 9:11 am |
This is the capitol of Finland: Helsinki. It was a rainy day but we didn't let it bother us much. Helsinki has about 500 000 inhabitants and is located only 1h drive from Porvoo.
In the first picture is the Cathedral at the Senate Square. The next photos are taken near the Cathedral, next to some souvenir shops. The green phonebooth is not the regular Finnish phonebooth. You can hardly find the regular ones as everyone has a cellphone nowadays. My host guessed it's somekind of an attraction itself for the Finns - and not all tourists carry cellphones so... And it suits the small street it stands in! Next to it were that couple and their reindeer wishing people welcome to the souvenir shop. One block away is the Market Square. As you can see there are huge cruise liners but also smaller boats and ferries (not all in dock at that moment). The big cruisers go mainly to Tallinn (Estonia) and Stockholm (Sweden) frequently. The building with the flag on top is the Presidential Palace. The president of Finland is Tarja Halonen, she's the first female president in this country. There's also the Uspensky Orthodox Cathedral Next to the Market Square is the fountain statue Havis Amanda. It was sculpted by Ville Vallgren in Paris. It's naked so it made quite a fuss in the days it was revieled (1908). After that is the parkway Esplanad and later the Main Railway Station and its surroundings. Close to the railway station (on the mainstreet) is the Parliament House close to the white building which is the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the statue next to it is the riding Mannerheim (one of our former presidents). And in the last pic a general view of the main street. |
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Delenna Posted Nov 9, 2009, 9:16 am |
After all the walking in the rain we finally went indoors. The Postmuseum is located in the Main Post Office which is right next to the Kiasma. In the Postmuseum is an exhibition about the Finnish Post and mail - past and present. There was free admission as the new christmas stamps were issued today. I saw old mail trucks, loads of postcards, lots and lots of stamps... I just wish my host had gotten better photos in the dark... | ||
Delenna Posted Nov 9, 2009, 9:28 am |
Finally something to eat! But this raspberry cheese cake was worth the wait And the hot chocolate! My host attended a Postcrossing Meetup (after all, she did "organize" this one) in a cafe in the Main Post Office. The Red Nose Day is a charity event to raise money for poor in the 3rd world. The postcrossers didn't raise money but used charity postcards as much as possible. My host used for example Fair Mail cards. Oh, and they had red noses too! I tried one as well, I think it fit me well
We met other toyvoyagers too as one of the other postcrossers is a host too - thanks to my host |
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Delenna Posted Nov 20, 2009, 12:47 pm |
Wohoo! I'm going on a cruise to Stockholm, Sweden! This is my boat, M/S Mariella (a Viking Line boat). It was really dark when we left so we could only see th elights of the city - and the Silja Line boat that left before us. Can you imagine, they had a sandbox on deck for dogs!?!
We had a welcome drink with a cool glowing ring and met the mascot of the cruise, Ville Viking, who is a big white furry cat. Our cabin was quite small but we all fit in. We checked out the Swedish money and the map of Stockholm. Our visit would contain lots of walking as there wasn't any place open on Mondays (starting now). So no museums or anything, just the city sights and maybe some shopping. We had dinner in a nice restaurant, vegtarian burger, which was really tasty. And so was the icecream we had for dessert! |
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Delenna Posted Nov 20, 2009, 12:58 pm |
God morgon! As they say "good morning" in Swedish. We woke up for buffet breakfast as we approached the city of Stockholm. With our stomachs full we went up to the deck to see the views. When we fiannly docked we saw the front part of the boat open and cars come out. Soon it was our turn to go out | ||
Delenna Posted Nov 20, 2009, 1:16 pm |
Tadaa! Here I am, in the capitol of Sweden: Stockholm. The first two photos look at the old town (Gamla Stan) which we didn't visit. Then we saw the statue of King Gustav III, pointing at the Royal Palace on the other side of the street.
The Palace is the official residence of the royal family and it was built during the eighteenth century in the Italian Baroque style, on the spot where the “Tre Kronor” castle burned down in 1697. It has over 600 rooms which must've been fun for the princesses & prince when they were kids: imagine playing hide & seek there... |
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Delenna Posted Nov 21, 2009, 12:37 pm |
After the Royal Palace we were supposed to go play on a lion statue but they had made an icerink around it! As it was raining more heavily we decided to try some shopping. The mall called "Gallerian" had many delicious looking places but my host went to a toystore. Nothing to eat there! I did meet a lego Santa and wished for a delicious christmas
Later we did go eat, at tle local McDonald's. My host had been searching for stamps to her postcards and she finally found a place next to the McD. She couldn't stop complaining how hard it was to find stamps - she went on and on about how easy it is in Finland as every little store that sells postcards also sells stamps... Lucky for her (and our ears) she also found a mailbox there. |
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Delenna Posted Nov 21, 2009, 12:52 pm |
Finally we got back to the boat. We had a little snack and checked the safety info... Something we should've done when we left Helsinki... I got a bag fullof Twix bars! I ate some and went back to the tax free to get some more
There was that map on the wall, showing our route. The ship has to stop at Mariehamn to be allowed to sell tax free products. There was also another weird rule: they could sell snuff only on Swedish waters! Not that any of us was buying it, just thought it was a funny rule. |
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Delenna Posted Nov 21, 2009, 12:59 pm |
Morning! We arrived in Helsinki in the morning. Enough light to see around too this time! We sailed through a narrow spot - as you can see we could almost touch Suomenlinna Sea Fortress when we passed it The Baltic Sea was very calm on our journey, thank goodness. Now we'll go home and rest - and eat some tax free candy... | ||
Delenna Posted Nov 29, 2009, 4:50 pm |
Ahhh! Aftermath of cruise... I ate my last Twix bars Now I've eaten Twix bars in Sweden and in Finland! | ||
Delenna Posted Dec 1, 2009, 8:05 pm |
Today we went to meet Santa Claus! There would be a "Grand" Opening of Old Porvoo's Christmas and Santa was scheduled to come by train! There's no regular operation to Porvoo by train anymore (not since the 70's), only during summers and special occasions - and with old museum trains (like stream locomotive or rail car). Today Santa came with the blue "lättähattu" ("Flat Hat") Dm6.
The buildings are the old train station and where they kept the trains in the old days. Some are left to be seen outdoors. Indoors, in a "store" of sorts, there was this tiny model train. We followed it for a while, while waiting for the real train to arrive. And finally, I saw Santa Claus! He was really nice to me and said we had something in common: we both liked eating And then he laughed like only Santa does |
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Delenna Posted Dec 1, 2009, 8:20 pm |
We walked down the main street (see the christmas lights!), to the old town, where we did some window shopping before the Opening of Old Porvoo's Christmas. This Opening consists of speeches, some singing and Santa. Honestly, that's it! They did have Tsar Alexander I speaking too (even in Russian!). Santa spoke and sang with us and then he sdat in that big white "teepee" to meet kids and give candy. Oh, there was a torch parade but the torch holders were too small to be seen behind the mass of people.
They did have another Grand Opening - the Opening of Porvoo Christmas, last week. Which we missed beacuse of my host is... well, "absent minded" sometimes... There would've been more to see... Oh, well. We did some more window shopping after the Opening. There's this MoominHouse on one window all year round - they just decorate it to fit every season and festivity. Hence, it was Christmas themed now. By the way, do you know what those big, red bells over the streets are? Those hanging from the green stuff? They're plastic buckets! |
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Delenna Posted Dec 1, 2009, 8:32 pm |
My host l-o-v-e-s crafts. She has this huge amount of supplies all over the house. Today we helped her make cards for lonely seniors. A "craft-supply-shop" (Tiimari) gathers christmas cards and Helsinki Missio (an organization that helps people in need) deals them out to lonely older citizens. My host likes to make people happy and she loves carfts so this was perfect for her. First she told us how to make a snow lantern card. That "lace" cutter was really hard to use! But only because the card was so thick. We added some snowflakes and yellow glitter and there it was! We also made cards with hearts, old christmas stamps, christmas trees... etc. It was really fun! We tried to be carefull with the glitter but I think everyone sparkled afterwards We made 13 cards. It's awesome to think that 13 old people will get a card from us and hopefully be happy, maybe our card is the only one they get. | ||
Delenna Posted Dec 2, 2009, 6:51 am |
Bye bye Finland! Auf wiedersehen! I've had fun but it's time to go celebrate merry christmas in "my country"
Germany, here I come! |
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RikeH Posted Dec 6, 2009, 4:27 pm |
Hello Mum,
I arrived in Germany – first I was welcomed by Dicker Kumpel – a very friendly bunny. Then he introduced me to the other guys here. I just arrived right in time. Today is St, Nicholas Day in Germany – maybe all over the world. We don't know that. It means that you have to clean your boots – and put them next to the door. Then they will be filled with delicious sweets. We all wanted to do it, but we found out that we don't have boots and were very sad. But then we found out that RikeH's Mum helped us – and bought this beautiful boot for us. And we loved the sweets inside. It was especially me, who loved the sweets inside... I tried to find more. In the afternoon – after eating a lot of sweets, we visited RikeH's mum – Hummel. She had a lot of Christmas things – so we could make a lot of photos. First with the Advent wreath. A friendly nutcracker. Beautiful things out of wood. Then we visited some angels – some of them are an orchestra and play wonderful music. Here you can see all of us with a very famous person – Rudolf the red-nose reindeer. He is living here – what a great place. And I sat next to him. It is so exciting! Bye Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 9, 2009, 6:30 pm |
Hello from the Airport,
Today we start our trip to London. I am so excited. First we took two photos inside the Airport. Then we went outside and watched the airplanes. And now I am IN one of the planes – it is amazing!!! I was able to look out of the window – we were really high above the ground. Here you see all of us together! In the evening we arrived in our new home. But we were too tired to make more photos. Yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 9, 2009, 6:34 pm |
Hi Mum!
We started to explore the city of London. And because of the great weather we jumped into the London Eye. Here you see me inside. This is me on front of one of the other cabins! We had so much fun - and after the 'flight' we went to the houses of Parliament with the tower called Big Ben. Later we had this great look at the London Eye. We saw the changing of the Horse Guards. At the end we made a stop at Trafalgar Square – but it was too cold to take a bath in the fountain. What a great day in London! Love Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 11, 2009, 7:28 pm |
Good morning Mum!
We will visit the Queen today – or at least watch the changing of the guards in front of the Buckingham Palace. This is normal for tourists – there were hundreds or maybe thousands, but only a few ToyVoyagers. Well, on our way to the Palace we saw the Parliament again – this time it looked even better – so we made another photo. After it we went through a park – some of us saw squirrels. We reached the Palace. Although we were very early, there were so many people. You can see me in front of the Palace: And this is the monument next to it. Then it started : many musicians came and some guards. After the ceremony we went to visit the Tower of London. On the way we found Julius Caesar. This was me in front of the Tower: We saw the juwels of the Queen, but we were not allowed to take photos inside. But we found this friendly knight. He was so nice and hold me in his hand. And you can see a part of the Tower Bridge behind us. Before we went home we had this great view of the Tower Bridge. Back home we talked a lot about our adventures. We have a strange white Christmas Tree here. Mum - we must have such a nice tree at home, too please. Look – there is Marshall sitting with Mandy Sheep. We others think that something is strange with Marshall. He is such an unusual sheep. We watched both from the other side. Then Dicker Kumpel decided to ask Marshall about his sometimes strange behaviour. He told us that he is a wolf and not a sheep. First nothing happened – but then : A Wolf??????? Most of us were very scared, only Lucan was cool – and stayed next to Marshall and talked with him. He told us that he is a friendly wolf and didn't find the right words to tell us that he is not a sheep. Well that is not a problem. Now we know why he was such a strange sheep – and we call him our friend, Marshall the Wolf. What another exciting day ! Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 14, 2009, 8:23 pm |
Hi Mum,
We started our day and bought a ticket for a big bus. This was fun. First we decided where we wanted do go to. We drove over the Tower Bridge. We all love the Tower Bridge. When we went into the Hyde Park to visit the Christmas Market. It is called Winter Wonderland here. We saw a nice place where people danced on ice... that is strange... Hey, we met some Santa Clauses – I thought that there is only one in the world? In the evening we ran around in the flat – and wanted to show some more of the funny things in this house. Look in the staircase. Just like at home. Okay – just kidding. We had two funny tables in the flat. The round one shows a map of the busses in London. The other one had a plan of the Tubes on it. Dicker Kumpel showed us, where our nearest station was. A pillow from London: A curtain of London: and a funny teapot. Maybe the British people are sometimes a little weird??? But I like it here. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 14, 2009, 8:29 pm |
Hi Mum,
Another sunny day in London. We started it in a wonderful market hall. We saw this very big monument – called the Monument. Hey – all of us in front of the Tower Bridge – we love the Tower Bridge!!! This wonderful church is called St. Pauls Cathedral. We went on a boat trip on the river Thames. It was dark outside – and we asked RikeH to made a last photo of us in London. You cannot believe where we wanted it. It is such a wonderful bridge. We had such a great time in London. But tomorrow we will go back home to Germany. Yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 21, 2009, 11:49 am |
Hi Mum!
We had snow!!! I was so excited!!! Look, how beautiful it is outside. We went into the centre of Sülfeld to see the church and the rest in white. Back home we had some delicious cakes. What a nice week-end. Yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 26, 2009, 10:33 am |
Hi Mum,
The winter is still in Germany now. We helped RikeH with the snow shovel. Then we made a nice walk through the snow. Here you see me on a big snowhill. Later we had a great view over a field. Back home we played in the garden. Here is a quiz. Can you see where I sat???? Here is the solution: There are beautiful trees with the snow on it. These two friendly guys were in front of our house. In the house we first sat on the radiator to get dry. Then I had a hot tea and some delicious cookies. Now I am waiting for Christmas. Love Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 26, 2009, 10:38 am |
Hi Mum,
Today I went to Hamburg to see the Christmas Market there. It is really nice – with many lights. A very tall tree – but wonderful! Inside the railway station there are lights, too. Our train arrived – but he was too fast to get a good picture. Tomorrow is Christmas!!! Yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Dec 27, 2009, 6:50 pm |
Merry Christmas Mum,
On the 24th of December the people celebrate Christmas in Germany. In the North it is Santa Claus, who brings the gifts, in the south it is the Christ Child. Because we are in the North, normally we have Santa Claus – but this year it was different – just have a look. This is the Christmas Tree – I really love it! Under the Christmas Tree there were many Christmas Cards from all over the world. Another nice Christmas decoration! We all sat together and RikeH read the Nativity story for us. It is about Maria, Josef and their child Jesus. What a surprise – I were able to visit them – in a stable... Then the important time of the evening came. The gifts!!! Four Christmas people came – a Christmas Bear, Rudolph, the famous Rendeer, a big Snowman – and Santa Claus. Hm – Santa Claus??? It was a Santa Bunny. Maybe because Dicker Kumpel is living here? Well, I told a Christmas-poem and Santa Bunny gave me a present. I opened it – some sweets. I love Christmas. But then I had a closer look – this couldn’t be all??? For me? I was such a nice guy!!! There should be more – and lucky me – there came more!!! Because it was Christmas I shared it with the others! After eating all my sweets – and when we all got our gifts, we sat together and sang the wonderful German Christmas Songs. I especially loved ‘Macht hoch die Tür.’ I hope that you had a nice Christmas time, although I didn’t celebrated it with you? Love Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 1, 2010, 10:30 pm |
Hi Mum,
It is New Year's Eve – and we will celebrate it. The clothes for the bottle were so funny – I tried it out, We found a nice bottle of egg liqueur. We danced together – it was great! Do you remember the egg liqueur.? Mum, I wish you a Happy Year 2010. yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 14, 2010, 6:14 pm |
Hi Mum,
Landroval arrived in Germany. Dicker Kumpel gave him a warm welcome. Then he introduced him to us – we will go on a holiday together next week. We talked a lot – and Landroval told us a lot about Canada. Then he showed us his foot. We all loved the nice Tattoo on it. Then we all showed our feet – I think that mine is the nicest, although I have no Tattoo on it.! Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 14, 2010, 6:36 pm |
Hi Mum,
We have winter here in Germany now. I looked out of the window and saw the snow. I had a great idea – I should build a snowman. It was hard work for a little ToyVoyager like me. But look, he is great, isn’t he? Snowy greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 18, 2010, 5:25 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we started our trip. It was very early in the morning – and snowy. Look – what I saw. Not much, We went from Hamburg to Frankfurt with a fast train called ICE-Train. It has nothing to do with the weather in Germany at the moment. Here you see all of us together. We all got something to eat : Here you see what I got: TWIX!!! When we arrived at the airport we were too early for the check-in. So we waited and watched the queue for the Emirates Flight. We needed another airline, but I will tell you later, where we went. SURPRISE!!! When we waited to board the plane, we went to a place where we were able to see the planes. Help – the plane was flying into my belly! Just kidding - look – there is our plane coming. I had a place at the window – it was a wonderful view! I had a delicious dinner – fresh fish with rice and vegetables. It went dark outside – the sky was so beautiful! I can tell you that we had a safe landing and stay in a nice hotel. But I won't tell you now, where I am. Greetings Twix on Tour |
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RikeH Posted Jan 18, 2010, 8:30 pm |
Hi Mum,
on this photo you can see, where I spend this holiday – in Jordan. We started in Amman and went through the city. They write with nice letters here. We went to Umm Qeis, to the Ruins of the old town Gadara. First we saw the Amphitheatre. Here we were: I had a great view from my place. Then we went to another place – there was a Basilica in the past. From this place I could see Israel and Syria. I saw the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. Really interesting. On the tour to the next place I saw a supermarket – I love the letters here! The next historical place was called Pella. This was a marble column – I loved the color. We drove to a very interesting place – called the Dead Sea. It is 422 m below the sea level – this was strange. The humans behaved really strange there – they put something black on their skins, waited ten minutes, and then went into the water. I didn't understand it. After the long time inside the bus I decided to take a rest and I enjoyed the sun on the beach. To tell the truth, we only make this holiday, because I wanted to complete one of my life missions - to relax in the sun on a beach. Later we had a picnic with delicious Hamburgers on the beach. What a great first day in Jordan. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 30, 2010, 9:38 pm |
Hi Mum,
Today was a great day for Jordan. Not only that I visited the country, but it was raining. They don't have many rain here, so we were happy for the Jordan People and decided to visit a Museum of Archeology. Here you can see some intersting things. This was the view from the entrance of the Museum – the Temple of Hercules behind me. We went to the big Amphittheater of Amman – I love these old buildings. Next to it was another nice museum. We saw there, how the people in Jordan lived in the past. We went through Amman and the souk. Here I was in front of a Mosque. They sold delicious fruits and vegetables in the Souk. We went to another great place – called Jerash. It is a very big old city – wonderful. We walked around there for 2 hours. First a Gate... ...the big oval place.. ...the Nympheum... ...more buildings... and the oval place from a hill. A really great place to visit – and the rain stopped, when we were there. Back home in the hotel we all drank soft drinks. We were not able to read, what it was, but it was jummy. After it Nasse shared his sweets with us – funny pig-sweets. Another really great day here. It is so nice to be a ToyVoyager!!! Love Twix |
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RikeH Posted Jan 31, 2010, 5:38 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we left Amman and drove south. First we visited the Mount Nebo, a mountain where – according to the Bible, the prophet Moses is believed to have died. We had a great view from the top. There was a beautiful mosaic – normally in a church – but now in a tent. Look – what a big stone – in memorial of Moses. After having a great time on the hill – with really beautiful views, we drove to Madaba. The city is best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, expecially a large Byzantine-era mosaic map of the Holy Land. We went into the Greek Orthodox Basilica of Saint Georg, where the famous mosaic is. Then we drove through a gorgeous landscape. We stopped to look into the Wadi Mujib. One hour later we came to Kerak, known for its famous Crusader Castle. We visited it – it was wonderful – I would love to be a knight, I think. In the evening we sat outside the room in the hotel and talked a lot. This time we ate the Snickers from Landroval. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 2, 2010, 11:54 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we visited one of the most famous places in Jordan, it is a city called Petra – a Unesco World Heritage Site. First we had to walk through the Siq – a dark narrow gorge. At the end of the Siq we had this view of Al Khazneh (the Treasury). Here I am in front of the Treasury. Here you see many tombs in the stone. They had an amphitheatre, too. We climbed up 200 stairs to visit the big Urn Tomb – and had a great view from the place. There were donkeys here. We went into an old church and saw some mosaics. We decided to make a long walk – about 800 stairs!!! But I was happy – RikeH put me in her bag, so I didn’t have to walk all the way on my short legs. Some photos from the way. A really steep gorge: This is the place we wanted to see – El Deir (the Monastery). It was great! On our way back we had nice views, too. Back in the valley the sun came – and we saw all in different colors. This was our hotel: We had a delicious dinner in the evening – very important after the long interesting day! Bye Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 5, 2010, 4:24 pm |
Hello Mum,
we had so much fun today. We made a trip with a Jeep through the Wadi Rum. We learnt that they made the Movie Lawrence from Arabia here. I never heart of it before. But the nature was nice. On our way to the Wadi Rum, we stopped at a nice place and saw the Valley of Petra. It was wonderful. Look – what a funny tree. If someone knows its name, please send a PM to RikeH. Here you can see us on our Jeep. We drove really fast and enjoyed the nature around. There was another Jeep behind us, but we were in the leading team. Our first stop – nice mountains and writing on the walls. The second stop - with a beautiful gorge. We stopped in front of a big Dune. We walked onto the top of it – and had a great view. What a wonderful day ! Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 5, 2010, 5:08 pm |
Hello Mum,
Today is the last day in Jordan. We will relax in the hotel. Here you see me sitting on the balcony – and the view from our balcony. Wonderful! We went through the garden and found beautiful flowers. Outside we saw these nice young dogs. Back in the hotel we wanted to drive on this funny bike, but we are not allowed, because we TVs were too young. So we decided to relax and enjoy the last evening. What a wonderful holiday in Jordan. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 6, 2010, 10:11 am |
Hello Mum,
a new guest arrived two days ago. She is called Agatha and came from Canada. We talked a lot – and she showed a viewcard from her country. Today we decided to drive to a nice small town. It is called Bad Oldesloe. RikeH went to school there – many many years ago. They have a nice river there. I liked it – and saw some funny ducks in the water and on the ice. This is the townhall. It was not so easy to take this photo, because the ground was very icy. Another nice place in Bad Oldesloe. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 15, 2010, 9:15 pm |
Helau Mum,
a new guest arrived – his name is Libbs and he is from Singapore. We gave him a warm welcome – he is so small. Today we will have a great time – it is Carnival Monday. So I searched for a nice hat. RikeH offered three different ones. I decided to take the green one. Then I watched the parade in the TV. The people in the parade threw sweets – called Kamelle... and I cought some. I had so many... I shared the sweets with my friends. What a wonderful day! Twix |
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RikeH Posted Feb 25, 2010, 9:34 pm |
Hello Mum,
we went to Hamburg today. We hoped for better weather. Here you see us in the train. I helped RikeH to write some postcards – they were really beautiful. After it I looked out of the window. There was still snow outside. I ran around in the train – but it was not allowed, so RikeH put me in this funny net. We wanted to explore the city, but the weather was awful. So we went into a big mall in the middle of Hamburg. We saw a shop with many nice toys – maybe one of them will become a TV, too? This was the mall – really big! Then I played on the piano – my music was wonderful. From a bookstore we had a look on the Alster – maybe we will come back some day – and walk around it. In the evening we started in the main train station. We had fun. Hugs Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 9, 2010, 9:10 am |
Hello Mum,
today we started our trip to Amrum Island – a nice German Island in the North Sea. We drove some hours – unfortunately the winter came back yesterday, but we arrived safe on the Coast – and saw our Ferry – called Schleswig-Holstein. Here you see me inside - with the typical greeting – Moin Moin. I went outside – the weather was sunny – but it was cold. We stopped at another Island, called Föhr. Some people left the Ferry, but we went on to Amrum. What a great trip. I will write more from Amrum soon. yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 11, 2010, 3:13 pm |
Hello Mum,
today we explored Norddorf, the village, where we live. First we saw this funny stone. The language is not German, but the language from Amrum. In this gate is written - better dead than slave. We say – better travelling than staying at home. One of the wonderful old houses here. We went into a nice café. I had a nice apple pie. And a hot chocolate with Grand Marnier. It was so yummy. On our way back we saw another great house. Hugs Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 14, 2010, 9:27 am |
Moin Moin Mum,
today we went to Norddorf and walk through the Dunes – there is a big lake. First we went along the Promenade and saw the Sea. Here you see the wooden Path we were walking on. This is the beautiful lake inside the Dunes. Look – there is still ice on it. It is a really cold winter – and now spring here in Germany. I hang around in the Dunes. It was great. Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 16, 2010, 9:25 am |
Moin Moin,
it was a very cold day outside, so I decided to have a nice evening in front of the fireplace. First I had to work for it. Then I had a relaxed evening – it was warm – and comfortable. Yours Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 17, 2010, 6:33 pm |
Moin Moin,
I want to show you some nice things in the flat we are living. Some beautiful mussels. A nice lighthouse. There are many lighthouses in this part of Germany. Two strange fishes. They were able to live outside the water. And here are two funny bunnies. They are sitting in an egg-sleigh and have fun all the day. We all have fun here in the holidays ! Greetings Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 18, 2010, 8:34 pm |
Hello Mum,
we went to the beach. The beach is very long here on Amrum – and not too many people walk here. We had a nice view of the beach. I collected some mussels. They are so beautiful. We went near to the North Sea – I had to be careful because I didn't want to get wet feet. Look – sea-gulls are living here. Back home I tried something special for this region. It is called Küstennebel – and really delicious. Cheers Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 19, 2010, 11:52 am |
Hello Mum,
We went to a nice little harbour. There are colorful houses. We saw the Sea and a ship in the harbour. These are big red buoys here – they get a new color, I think. After it we went on a big playground. Here you see us together. I had so much fun! There were sheep next to the playground. Many sheep are living in this region of Germany. Hugs Twix |
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RikeH Posted Mar 22, 2010, 11:15 am |
Hi Mum,
Our last day On Amrum Island – we were all sitting together and talked a lot. We all will go to new hosts on Monday. Hugo will go to Finland, Landroval to Japan, I will visit Wales and Kasper will stay in Germany, but visit another place. We celebrated the last day with RikeH drinking a delicious bottle of wine. Oups – very delicious. We sat a very long time – and had so much fun. It is great to be a ToyVoyager! Then I said Good-Bye to Dicker Kumpel – he has been such a nice host! I really liked it here with him and RikeH. But now I am off to Wales! Hugs Twix |
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miapearl Posted Mar 28, 2010, 6:14 pm |
Hi Mummy,
I think I arrived yesterday but my host only discovered the envelope today just as she and her family were going out. Will update later as I will be going out now. My host will take pictures of me coming out of the envelope and meeting her toyvoyagers... Cya later. x |
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miapearl Posted Mar 29, 2010, 11:19 am |
Hello Mummy,
I woke up in a strange country. I introduced myself to Squizzle and Gaspode. I woke up just in time for lunch, yum yum. That should see me through the afternoon when we all go for a walk. Look Mummy, it is a little ladybird. Time to go now for our walk. |
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miapearl Posted Mar 29, 2010, 11:47 am |
Hi Mummy
After lunch, we arrived at Moelfre. I wanted to see this little waterfall. This is a statue at the Seawatch Centre near a monument for the Royal Charter, a clipper that was wrecked in 1859 in hurricane force gales. Nearly a century later to the day, the Hindlea hit rocks but the RNLI lifeboat was able to rescue all the crew, a happier ending. This statue is to commemorate the coxswain of the RNLI lifeboat that went out to the Hindlea. Here is the Moelfre lifeboat named RNLB Robert and Violet, which is a Tyne class lifeboat. Look Mummy at all these medals awarded to the brave people of the RNLI in Moelfre. We had a look down at the rocks on the seashore. There are fossils. We had such a nice afternoon but then it was time to go home. Until next time Mummy, xxx. |
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miapearl Posted Apr 9, 2010, 10:00 pm |
Hi Mummy,
Today, we made the long trip across the UK to visit my host's mother. It has been a long journey and I'm tired. We'll be visiting lots of places. Bye for now, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 9, 2010, 11:37 pm |
Hello Mummy,
Today, we went to Skegness on the Lincolnshire coast. It is a popular seaside resort. There is an amusement park, and crazy golf courses, among other things. Here is a fountain at Skegness. There is a lifeboat station. The lifeboat is called the Lincolnshire Poacher. A map. I didn't get a hole in one. There is sand and sea at Skegness. Someone had built a sandcastle and put the Welsh flag on. There was a relaxing boat ride And then we headed to the amusements. We had winnings. Then, we had a game of air hockey. And then we wandered back to the car, via a shopping centre. There was a nice Easter display. Hope tomorrow is less busy. Bye for now, Hugs |
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miapearl Posted Apr 9, 2010, 11:51 pm |
Hello Mummy
Today, we went to the Owl Centre at Baytree Garden Centre. There were lots of owls, big owls, little owls. This is a Bengal Eagle Owl I think this is a secretary bird A barn owl. My host bought a little owl soft toy but the barn owl took exception to it. Bye for now, Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 16, 2010, 3:22 pm |
Hello Mummy
For Easter, we had a day out at Hunstanton, a west-facing coastal resort on the East coast of England! My host's son wanted to play in the amusement park and go on rides. My host and her mother wanted to take a tour on the Wash Monster. This amphibious boat wasn't very busy, and we were lucky that the tour went ahead. Later tours scheduled were cancelled due to insufficient passengers. There is a lighthouse on the cliff My host didn't get a chance to take a picture of the boat itself as she and her mother went in search of lunch after the trip. However, my host has been to Hunstanton before. She took this photo last year when her husband went on it for a trip. I wonder where we will go tomorrow. Bye for now, hugs, Twix. |
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miapearl Posted Apr 16, 2010, 4:27 pm |
Hello Mummy,
We have stayed locally today, by visiting Spalding and then Springfields. There are shopping outlets, and show gardens. We took a water taxi from Spalding to Springfields. Then, we wandered around the gardens Pretty yellow flowers Not sure what these sculptures are all about. My host tells me tomorrow, we will be making our way home to Wales. Bye for now, hugs, Twix. |
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miapearl Posted Apr 16, 2010, 4:36 pm |
Hello Mummy,
We have left Spalding for Wales. However, it is a long journey so time to stop off for a break at Gulliver's Kingdom in Matlock Bath. We went up on the chair lift I went on that ride, but this photo is taken from another ride. Don't fire me out of the cannon! Don't shoot me! My little leggies aren't long enough to reach the pedals. This is more like it. The lazy river ride, but the queue was quite long, so this will be my last ride as the park will be closing soon. Bye for now, hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 16, 2010, 8:56 pm |
Hello Mummy,
Today my host took me to Llandudno and the Great Orme. We parked on the top floor of the car park. We then went to the cable car to take us up the Great Orme hill. Look, can you see the pier? Then, we passed the dry ski slope & toboggan run on the way up. My host's son likes going on the toboggan run, and my host's husband has been down the dry ski slope. My host tells me she has never been skiing. The town nearest Llandudno is Conwy. The river Conwy flows out to the sea here. You can see the estuary. If it had been a clear day, perhaps we would have seen Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another way up the Great Orme is by the tramway. There are two separate sections. The tram is reaching the Halfway station. At the top, my host's son wanted to play crazy golf. Then when he finished, he wanted to play in the children's play area. This gave my host a chance to look round the information centre & wildflower garden. There are lots of mountain goats on the Great Orme, as well as sheep. Inside the centre, there is an exhibition on the nature of the area. This shows the lifecycle of a butterfly. Pretty flowers in the wildflower garden. Then, it was time to go down the hill. There was a huge queue for the return trip. There's a copper mine, open to the public. The tide is very low today. A Punch & Judy show. My host & her family were gasping for refreshments so we didn't stop for the rest of the show. And then we went home. Bye for now, Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 21, 2010, 12:18 pm |
Hi Mummy
After lunch at the Holland Arms Garden Centre, we went to a beach on the Anglesey coast. It was such a beautiful day. Here are some barnacles, and can you see the limpets? My host took her shoes and socks off to walk in the little pools. Brr. Anyway, we saw more life on the rocks. The jelly blobs are sea anemones out of water. More barnacles. There is a winkle snail on the move in the small pool of water. These sea anemones (Actinia equina) look pretty in the water with their tentacles. This is the life! We had such a fab day. Until next time Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 21, 2010, 12:51 pm |
Hi Mummy,
It is such a beautiful day and we will be going out. Where are we going? There are plenty of places to choose from. |
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miapearl Posted Apr 21, 2010, 1:01 pm |
Hi Mummy,
On this beautiful spring day, we went to Llanberis in Snowdonia. There is a lake railway. We could have caught the train but smelly steam/smoke comes out of the engine and my host's son didn't want to go on it. Still, it was a pleasant enough walk to where we wanted to go. This is High Ropes, an adventure park. My host's son isn't tall enough for the big course. In the background, there is a giant swing, part of the course for the taller people - can you see the people up in the air? The children wear a harness and use karebiners to attach themselves to a rope. Afterwards, we went next door to the National Slate Museum Look at those big cogs/wheels. Can you see me? Some slate A cycling dragon! Time to go home now. Until next time, Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 21, 2010, 3:45 pm |
Hi Mummy,
After buying the new issue of stamps (endangered mammals), we went on to Criccieth. It was still Easter holidays for my host's son. The town of Criccieth is located on the Cardigan Bay. A solicitor in the area was David Lloyd George who became Prime Minister in the early 20th Century. There are beaches, and, guess what! a lifeboat station! The lifeboat is a different type to the ones at Skegness and Moelfre. We climbed up a hill. At the top of the hill, is a 13th century castle. Improvements were made for King Edward I. After wandering around the ruined castle, we enjoyed some time on the beach, looking in rockpools and on rocks. Better watch your toesies, Mia! Some mussels, including some very small ones And there is a different crab somewhere in the water.... Then, it was time to go home. A perfect day! Until next time, Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted Apr 21, 2010, 5:24 pm |
Hi Mummy,
A package arrived. We gathered on the front lawn on the picnic rug to open the package. G'day. We all gathered round the new arrival, alfie langer I showed off my new mug from the RNLI that was bought from Criccieth's lifeboat station. A lazy day today. Until next time, Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 3, 2010, 11:01 pm |
Today, we went to the Centre for Alternative Technology in mid-Wales. This innovative place is built in an old slate quarry in the foothills of Snowdonia. It opened in 1974, and is currently undergoing improvements. A new building to house postgraduate classes and conferences is nearly finished.
Anyway, there's still plenty to see and do here. The information displayed is bilingual. To get up to the Visitor centre, we all went on a little train up the cliff. Once at the top, we wandered around the site. They have a series of slate slabs, carved with words of wisdom & information about various trees and how humans can use them. There were more slabs but my host said that the position of the sun made it difficult to take nice photos. What's a flywheel? It's a windmill... look what it powers... One of the displays is a technological timeline put on a wind turbine blade. Wow, all this technology has come a long way. |
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miapearl Posted May 3, 2010, 11:25 pm |
After the visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology, we took a detour home. This ruined castle is in the Dysynni Valley in Snowdonia near Llanfihangel-y-pennant. The castle was built for Llywelyn ap Iowerth (Llywelyn the Great).
The castle was besieged in 1282/1283 falling to King Edward I who had it fortified but then, it was the last of King Edward's castles to fall in a Welsh revolt. No wonder- it's perched atop a rocky outcrop. |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 10:39 am |
Hi Mum,
We are on our way to Rhyl, but stopped for lunch in the Conwy valley. Can you see Conwy Castle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in the background? |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 10:58 am |
Hi Mum,
One of the attractions at Rhyl is Terror Tombs. I am brave, I will go in. Scary faces Eeek! I'm going to hide in my host's pocket! |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 11:10 am |
Hi Mum,
I have come out of my host's pocket at a curry house to belatedly celebrate my host's birthday Why has alfie langer got a napkin over his head? My host's son loves mango chutney on his poppadoms. And my host likes the onions... Onion bhaji. |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 11:40 am |
Hi Mummy,
We will be staying the night in a B&B in Llandudno. My host has a ticket to see a play at the theatre. This is the first Columbo story, but instead of Peter Falk (who never played Columbo in that story), it'll be Dirk Benedict (The A-Team, Battlestar Galactica). My host had a take-away for dinner on the promenade before the drama. There was also an RNLI lifeboat exercise. My host couldn't take any pictures inside the theatre. The show was good... and another thing.... Night night. |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 11:54 am |
Good morning Mummy,
Slept well. Ate breakfast then sat for a few minutes on the promenade looking out to sea. Peaceful, though the sound of the waves on the pebbles was nice. And then, it was time to go home. |
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miapearl Posted May 4, 2010, 12:07 pm |
Hi Mummy,
We welcomed Diddl-Maus We are going to have such fun together. Hugs x |
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miapearl Posted May 9, 2010, 8:59 pm |
Hello Mummy,
Today is May Day. We went to Llandudno for the Victorian fun fair in town. This ghost train is too scary for me to go on, but my host's brave husband and son did. This is more my style! A merry-go-round or carousel with an organ. There were some vintage traction engines All this walking around and I need a sit down! My host's son likes to blow bubbles After a few bubbles, it was time to go home. |
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miapearl Posted May 10, 2010, 7:08 pm |
Hello Mummy,
Today, we went to the Maritime Museum in Holyhead. The lighthouse on the left is called Breakwater Light. The one on the right is South Stack, and the one in the middle is The Skerries. And here's me atop a model of the Breakwater Light. This is the Thomas Fielden. The Maritime Museum is housed in an old lifeboat station. The Thomas Fielden was stationed here. This is Holyhead's first lifeboat A modern day lifeboat. This is a big sewing machine to make/mend sails. This is the H.M.S. Nimrod. She saw action during the American War of 1812. Hey Mummy, do you remember that I went to Moelfre and saw the monument for the Royal Charter? Well this is part of the goodies salvaged. This is the H.M.S. Thetis, a submarine that failed to resurface at seatrials. The vessel was salvaged, repaired and renamed. I'm learning Semaphore. This is the H.M.S. Bluebell. She served in World War II but was lost due to a torpedo. This is something to do with diving. How did they get the ship into the bottle? Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 10, 2010, 8:13 pm |
Hi Mummy,
Across from the Maritime Museum is an Air Raid shelter. The inside houses a museum too. The postcards here are David Lloyd George & Family, and Welsh Troops picture postcard day. Medals for the brave. Ammunition. A very loud air raid siren thing that my host's son was allowed to wind/start. Oh my ears! A tumbler engraved "Never have so many owed so much to so few" Wartime comics and toys. |
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miapearl Posted May 10, 2010, 8:20 pm |
Hi Mummy,
After visiting the museums, we went for a walk at the Holyhead Breakwater Country park. Please don't fire!! Can you see the lighthouse on that little rock? That is South Stack. My host then ran out of battery for her camera. |
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miapearl Posted May 11, 2010, 10:49 am |
Hi Mummy,
Today, we went to Stone Science, a museum on the Isle of Anglesey. There were many exhibits of fossils, rocks & minerals, ancient implements (and large teddy bears sitting on chairs in front of the tele!) Zinc minerals. The blue one is Herbertsmithite, and the light green on eI think is Smithsonite (named after the English chemist and mineralogist, James Smithson) And now for ore minerals of copper, including Malachite, Dioptase, Azurite, Chalcopyrite, Aurichalcite.... Some calcites Verdite rhinoceros, blue lace agate, rainbow obsidian, bloodstone, moss opal.... Fossils found on Anglesey. Some more fossils. Heading out now to somewhere else on this nice bank holiday Monday. |
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miapearl Posted May 12, 2010, 4:21 pm |
Hi Mummy,
After visiting Stone Science, we came to the historic town of Beaumaris on the Menai Straits (separates the Isle of Anglesey from mainland Wales). There is an RNLI lifeboat station. We were lucky to see the lifeboat out in the water, although they had just finished the training exercise and were coming back to shore. Being loaded into a thing and then a tractor can haul the lifeboat out of the water. The tires of the tractor are being washed down (all that salty sand...) Then, off we went to the main attraction - Beaumaris Castle. This castle is a World Heritage Site. Beaumaris also had a courthouse. Charles Dickens had watched some trials here. We climbed up the stairs to walk along the top of the wall. This castle has a moat. It is an impressive castle. Wonder where we'll go next.. Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 12, 2010, 5:30 pm |
Hi Mummy,
It is election day and my host is going to vote. Because photography inside a polling station is not allowed, my host made this little "polling booth" and made a "ballot paper" She changed her mind with what she had printed on the paper so used an editing software to alter it. She asked where Bubo should go first on a voyage. |
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miapearl Posted May 12, 2010, 5:50 pm |
Hi Mummy
What a beautiful day it is here. My host is taking me to a beach, though I think she wants to potter around the rock pools, so I'd best keep in the bag (I don't want to get wet - the sea could be very cold). Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 17, 2010, 8:37 pm |
Hello Mummy,
Today, we ventured again onto the Isle of Anglesey, this time visiting the Sea Zoo. There is a lobster in the cage. Do you like this sunstar starfish attached to the aquarium glass? Some anemones. A starfish. A fishie. Some sea-squirts. 2 more fishies. More fishies. Relaxing (if you can call sitting in the hole for the parasol in a bench, relaxing!) in the sunshine while my host's son climbs on the adventure trail. Eeek! Get me down! Time to go somewhere that my host, her husband and her son haven't been before. Catch you later, Hugs, Twix. |
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miapearl Posted May 17, 2010, 8:57 pm |
Hi Mummy
We are on an adventure. We are doing Geocaching. To get to this particular cache, we had to cross over the Afon (river) Braint by using Stepping Stones. There were some quite big gaps between the stones, too big for me to jump. But I made it safely across (twice) in my host's bag. Here we are at the cache with the log book. This is fun. Can we do some more tomorrow? Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 17, 2010, 9:14 pm |
Hi Mummy,
We went Geocaching today in Snowdonia. This one is by the side of the lake Mymbyr. We are going for lunch now. Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 17, 2010, 9:59 pm |
Hi Mummy,
We are going to attempt another couple of geocaches. Mobile phone signal isn't good and my host didn't note others down. This is a memorial for the Dolgarrog Dam Disaster. In 1925, floodwater swamped the village of Dolgarrog killing 16 people. 2 dams failed. A memorial walk was opened in 2004. Just a little way along this walk, we find treasure... It is cosy in the treasure box. Then, off we set for another cache. It is a long way (is this a path? is this the right way?). However, eventually, with the use of a compass & gps... we find the second cache we were aiming for. Sneaky, hidden away in a camouflage bag. At least the way back to the car was easier! There are more caches in the area, but it was now getting late (school tomorrow for my host's son...) and so we needed to get back. My host apologises for no individual photos of me this time. Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 19, 2010, 4:20 pm |
Hi Mummy,
Today, my host wanted to find a geocache in her town, so, off we went. It didn't take long to find. Then, we went back over the footbridge. And into Caernarfon Castle. There was a bit of a breeze. There was a special event on. A harp, and a nice seat possibly made by traditional woodworking techniques. There was a craftsman doing demonstrations. We went up a spiral staircase and came out on the wall. Prince Charles was on the dais (circle slate slab) to receive the title, at his investiture as the Prince of Wales We went up more spiral steps and came out here. It is a long way down. Looking out across Caernarfon and toward the mountains. Down we go... We were atop that tower. And then, we came back down. Time was short as we had come without my host's son (who was in school). We didn't want to be late back. But then, my host found time to stick me on this cannon. Luckily, she didn't put me inside this time. What is it about my host/her family that makes them put toys in/on cannons? Perhaps it is better on a cannon than being dangled by the tail from a chain up high! I shall be glad to move on (hopefully, to somewhere warmer than Wales!) Hugs, Twix |
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miapearl Posted May 22, 2010, 10:46 am |
Hi Mummy,
Sad day today as I say goodbye to my friends Diddl-Maus,alfie langer & Bubo, as well as my host. Today, I venture forth to a warmer place... My host would have taken photos but she has taken so many photos recently, that her camera battery was flat! Perhaps that was my fault asking her to take so many pictures of me! Hope my journey isn't a long one. Hugs, Twix |
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Edit Posted May 29, 2010, 9:36 pm |
Hi Mummy,
I have arrived! They say I am in Spain now. Well, I don't know, but it is hot, that's sure. There were a few guys waiting for me, look: They were very friendly as soon as they saw me. When I was finally out of the envelope they introduced themselves. The big one, black&white, he is Pandi Panda, the one with the flag on his T-shirt is called Osito (Little bear, in Spanish) and the little dog is Milou. I was also bringing a postcard with me, it is about a village that has such a long name I could not finish reading it before giving the postcard to my new host. I was wondering how do they pronounce it, because it is written like this: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (if I wrote it all right). My new host liked it very much, because she collects postcards. It was late when I arrived and I was hungry. I found something that looked very delicious: But it was not real!!! What a disappointment! Finally I had to take what my hosts took: I convinced them to put some tuna also, so at the end it wasn't so bad. Now it is a bit late and I am tired from the travel, so I am going to sleep. I will write again soon! Twix |
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Edit Posted May 30, 2010, 7:27 pm |
Today was a nice sunny day. When I woke up I looked out of the window. I had this nice view of an old little church called San Antón.:
In the afternoon my hosts showed me the old center of Toledo as well. We started here, at Toletum, which is a place to receive the visitors. Then we saw a museum that my hosts have never visited yet. We did not go in, only looked at it from outside: We arrived to a park and I had to take a little siesta: This beautiful gate is called Puerta Bisagra. I liked it very much, and this is the entrance to the historic centre. The historic centre is on a hill, look: Everywhere you can see these flags hanging from the balconies and windows, all of them have religious symbols as soon it is going to be Corpus Cristi, an important religious holiday in Toledo. Look, a little train! This gate is called Puerta del Sol. Finally we arrived to the main square, Plaza de Zocodover: What do you think Mummy, what is this yellow thing I am standing on? Yes, a mailbox!!! Here they "cover" the streets so in the summer, when it is very hot, there is a bit of shadow. Great idea! We went on and look at this shop! But my hosts did not let me in Instead they took me to another square to see more old buildings. Brrr, how bored I was. Ok, the Town Hall does not look bad: And the Cathedral is very pretty: But I was tired and hungry!!! And we were still walking and walking... We saw some interesting shops. You can find them everywhere in Toledo: Finally, when I was really exhausted, a miracle happened: my hosts got tired and they wanted to sit down. So we went to a bar and ordered some drinks. Here if you order a drink you get some food as well, they call them tapas. This was very delicious And now full of energy I wanted to see more from the city. But my hosts were tired and only showed me one more thing: This was a nice afternoon. Now they are making dinner and I am tired, too. I will write again soon! Good night, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 1, 2010, 6:38 am |
Hi Mummy,
Yesterday my host had a lot of things to do, so I was hanging around in the flat with my new friends. They told me that in Spain there are lots of oranges, so I had an orange juice for breakfast: After the breakfast I was reading a newspaper and I could not believe my eyes!!!! Look what I have found: I hope today we can do something more exciting outside Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 1, 2010, 6:02 pm |
Today my host took me to work. Her office was boring and we could not make so much fun there but she showed me campus of the University of Castilla La Mancha. She told me it used to be a factory for making arms, cannons for example. We could not make a photo with the cannons but here is one of the buildings:
And here is another view of the city of Toledo: In the afternoon I was with my new friends. They told me about their hobbies. Milou is a famous little dog. He has a friend called Tintin and together they have had a lot of adventures. They are so famous that someone wrote books about them. My host has a few of these books and Milou likes them a lot: Osito has a cousin called Tatty Teddy, he is so famous that they even used his photo for making greeting cards. Osito likes collecting these cards, with the photo of his cousin: And finally Pandi Panda. He loves postcards, but only collects the ones that have photos of pandas He already has 2! I told them about my adventures all around the world and about Germany, as a friend of them, Rafael is there, with my Mummy! |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 3:56 pm |
Hola Mummy,
I had a very busy weekend, my hosts took me to an excursion. They took lots of photos and now I am going to tell you what I have done. We started pour adventures in Madrid. First I travelled by metro: We went to a big train station to take a train. When we arrived I could see these huge towers and I asked my host to take a photo: These big towers were built not long ago and some people like them, some others not. They are very high and you can see them from a big distance. In the train station we met a lion! He almost ate me! Fortunately he was not a real lion, but a mailbox and realized that I am not a letter Then we took our train. It was a TrenHotel (Train Hotel). We spent the night there. In the morning we arrived to... Well, see my next post |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 4:04 pm |
In the morning we arrived to Sanxenxo. It is a little town at the sea. Well, at the ocean, the Atlantic ocean! We were hungry, so the first thing was to have breakfast
Then we went to the beach!!! It was so sunny and warm. Later we decided to go to the harbor: And I discovered a lighthouse! We were walking a lot and it was hot, so it was time to take something. First we had a drink and some tapas: It was such a nice place, and the food so delicious, that we had lunch there: Of course we had marisco (seafood). In the afternoon we went to a park to enjoy a bit the shadow of the trees: |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 4:12 pm |
After spending the previous day at the sea, it was time to visit a bigger city. We decided to go to Santiago de Compostela. We could have walked there, as the pilgrims who do the Camino (The Way of Saint James), but we only had a day, so we took a train.
There were lots of tunnels: And here I am with the cathedral of Santiago, this is the place where the Camino ends, the Cathedral with the statue of the saint, that the pilgrims hug at the end of their journey. There are several ways to arrive, some start in Portugal or France, and there are a lot of people every year. |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 4:25 pm |
After the journey of the previous day, we decided to have a nice, relaxing morning. My hosts told me that I need to wear a cap, because the sun can be dangerous. There were a lot of models, I tried a few.
Cap #1 Cap #2 Cap #3 Which do you like the most? I preferred #1, so I was wearing it the rest of the time: Later we went to A Toxa, a small island with an interesting church. First view, it looks like a normal church: But what is on the wall? Let's go closer! It is full of shells!! There were beautiful flowers on the island: And these interesting buildings are granaries, that were used to store corn, for example. After lunch we decided to go on a boat trip! This was our boat: The trip was very nice: |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 4:29 pm |
Finally the day of coming back has arrived. We were traveling and traveling and... the journey was approx. 800 km.
By bus And by train |
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Edit Posted Jun 7, 2010, 4:30 pm |
Today I am still tired from the weekend, but I am also very happy, because a new TV has arrived, Domino!
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Edit Posted Jun 9, 2010, 6:45 am |
Hello Mummy!
After the beautiful weather of the weekend rain has arrived here yesterday and it was windy, too. We decided to stay inside. My hosts bought an pineapple, look: And a Twix bar, too! I decided to share it with my friends. And finally, after dinner, I had a mousse, too. Don't worry Mummy, I won't get too fat I will do some exercise as soon as the weather will be better Until next time. Bye, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 10, 2010, 6:11 am |
Hello Mummy!
Yesterday was another rainy day, but late in the afternoon the sun started to shine. My host told me when it is raining and the sun is shining we might be able to see a rainbow. So we went to the window to watch and look! It was so beautiful Bye, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 12, 2010, 9:06 am |
Hi Mummy!
Yesterday we went for a walk. My hosts showed me the river, which is called Tajo. Then we went to the train station and saw this train: It goes to Madrid and only takes 25 minutes to arrive. I goes very fast and is called AVE. But we did not take it. We came out. But then why did we stayed there for such a long time? Maybe they bought something there??? Later we went to the library. There is a cafetería in the library and we took something there. I was wondering why my hosts took this book?? They also told me that the Football World Cup started today. In Spain people are very excited. We saw a paper telling us that every game of the Spanish national team is going to be shown in Plaza de Toros, on a huge screen. Have a nice weekend Mummy, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 14, 2010, 6:24 am |
Hi Mummy!
Do you remember that on Friday we went to the train station? Well, it turned out that my hosts bought tickets to a special train called Tren de la fresa (Strawberry train). First we had to go to Madrid, to an old station that is a museum now. Then we took our train. It was an old one, with wooden seats. They gave us strawberries. Domino and I were very excited to start the travel. When we arrived to Aranjuez, we visited the Royal Palace and its gardens. Unfortunately it was not possible to take photos inside the palace, but it was beautiful, I can tell you I had a very comfortable travel The gardens were really beautiful There were lots of fountains. Can you find me on this photo? I even climbed on a tree We found a nice lake in the park And another little palace At the end of the day we took the Strawberry train again to return. It was a nice weekend. Hope you also head a great time Mummy! Bye, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 18, 2010, 7:36 pm |
Hi Mummy!
Today is Friday and I could convince my hosts to take me for a walk! We did not go far as we could see it is going to rain (now while I am writing it is raining outside). I had a closer look of this old church, it is from 1882, I saw the year on the gate. Then we went to the building called Toletum to take something. And there I met Don Quijote! He was real friendly! My hosts also show me the stadium of the football club of Toledo (in the background on the photo) and the building of the firemen, that looks like a little castle. We managed to arrive home before the rain and will have dinner soon. My hosts say tomorrow we might go somewhere if the weather will be nice Have a nice weekend, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 19, 2010, 8:31 pm |
Hello Mummy!
Today we were in Madrid. My hosts had to buy some things and after that they show us a bit from the city. First we were at Puerta del Sol: From here we went to Plaza Mayor. It is a really nice square: Then we went to see a stadium, the Vicente Calderon Stadium. This is the home of Atletico de Madrid, the team that won the Europa League this year in Hamburg. We saw the museum as well, but inside we could not use the flash, so the images are a bit blurred. Sorry for that Can you find me in this picture? After the museum Domino and I found a playground and had some fun: Good bye, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jun 28, 2010, 2:46 pm |
Hello Mummy!
Last weekend we went to a very nice city called Avila. My hosts told me that it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and most famous of its medieval city walls that go around the old center. We went for a walk around the walls, look: There were nice flowers: We also went to a lookout point and had a great view on the city: |
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Edit Posted Jul 5, 2010, 6:13 am |
Hello Mummy!
Last week was a bit boring, my host had a lot to do, so Domino and me decided to go on an adventure in the weekend. As none of us has a camera, finally we took our host with us. We went to the airport and took a plane. When we arrived we saw that we were in Paris! But it was raining and raining and raining all the time. Still, we decided to discover the city! We saw the Tour Eiffel: The Arc de Triomphe: And the Notre Dame: Fortunately we did not get wet, our host was taking care of that. All in all, it was really nice day Twix |
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Edit Posted Jul 5, 2010, 6:25 am |
The next day the rain stopped, so I decided to go back to the Eiffel Tower. I took the metro:
And soon I was there! It is really really high this Eiffel Tower. From here I took the metro again and I went to see the Sacre Coeur. It is beautiful: In the afternoon we took our flight and came back: It was a great weekend! Have a nice week Mummy, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jul 11, 2010, 9:33 pm |
Hello Mummy!
On Friday my hosts took me to see a very special show. It was a light and music show, images painted by and related to the life of the famous painter, El Greco, were projected to Puerta Bisagra, a gate in the historic centre. We took some photos but they are very blurred, because it was so dark. It was very beautiful. Yesterday we went for a last walk in the centre and today I said good bye to my friends. My host promised me to put some photos here about all of us. Now I am very excited, because tomorrow I travel to a new place. I liked it here in Spain, but it is starting to get too hot. Time to move on. Have a nice week Mummy, Twix |
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Edit Posted Jul 12, 2010, 5:33 am |
Hello Mummy!
These are the last images my host took. On Saturday we went to the centre to take something at our favorite place: And on Sunday I said goodbye to my friends. They were already preparing to the World Cup final, that is why Leo has the Spanish flag. And here I am already in the envelope: Today I will start my journey. I am excited and I hope to arrive soon. Twix |
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dzejna Posted Jul 16, 2010, 3:38 pm |
Hey Mummy!
Big greetings from the Czech Republic, where I arrived yesterday. Everything went well during the journey. When I jumped of the envelope I found myself in the countryside! I met one other toyvoyager who is here at the moment, his name is Fed. And bunch of home staying toys. Here we are all together =) I shared the sweets Edit packed to my bag with them. As the whole family was expecting me, I got local sweets and Pringles too! Look! Afterwards I went to check out the garden if there isn´t anything else to eat - you never know when the hunger strikes... and I found peas and strawberries. Also some flowers. And a cactus too =) So mum, I am ok and getting ready for some new adventures! My host and all the guys were really impressed by my travelog, I was so proud... Bye for now, but see you soon with another update, Twix |
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dzejna Posted Jul 18, 2010, 6:37 pm |
Hi Mum!
Today I went to the firing range with my host! There is open air one close to the village I am now. And it was great... I was able to try loading a gun and shooting and everything. Though the actual shooting was quite difficult for me - as you can see I am much smaller then the gun. But check this target out - almost all my hits are in black area!!! My host was really proud of me I was also very very good and helpful on checking the hits on the target during the sport shooting. See? I was using this small monocular for it. Thats it for today mummy - I have one Twix bar left on the sofa and you can understand that I just can´t keep it waiting, right? =) Bye, Agent Twix |
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dzejna Posted Jul 24, 2010, 1:32 pm |
Hi mummy!
On wednesday I went to Brno - the second biggest city in the Czech Republic and I took a look around. Here are some photos from this trip for you. In the center I saw the Janacek´s theatre - it is place for opera and balley. We were also passing this church of St. Jacob, main square with the summer beach bar and Hotel International. Then we decided to visit Castle Spilberk, which is on the hill. So you can see the whole city from there. A bit spooky entrance. Sitting on the cannon ball. And enjoying the castle, it´s surroundings and the view I will write again very soon. More news coming up! Love, Twix |
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dzejna Posted Jul 24, 2010, 1:53 pm |
Hello again mum!
Guess what...? One more life mission completed! Yesterday me and my fellow Fed went to a ZOO together! We had gorgeous weather and everything was just great! We chose the ZOO in Zlin. (It is the town where my host studies at university). The ZOO is very nice and it has four parts, each one dedicated to one continent. In the areal there is also very nice historical castle called Lesna. So mum, are you ready? Here we go Bye for now! Twix |
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dzejna Posted Aug 13, 2010, 3:32 pm |
Hi Mum,
hope you are doing fine, cause we definitely do in here! New TV came to our house this week. His name is Michel and he is German. But as he is quite experienced TV already (just like me! ), he came right from Hong Kong! Amazing, isn´t it? He brought us some special candy and beautiful postcard. As he wanted to stretch his legs after the loooong trip, we jumped into the car and went to see the Macocha Abyss which is nearby. And we wanted to see it soon anyway. Here I am looking from the top view point. It was very impressive and very nice. We also went to check the lower view point to see the abyss from a different perspective. By foot, uff. And this is it... Tourist signs we saw on our way back up. After this trip we decided to go to have a something to eat. Fed and Michel bought a langos (hungarian meal) and I got fried cheese in a roll all for myself. And the coke too. Yummy yummy! The buffet is nearby biiig lake and our host insisted we have to go boating! We were quite scared, but we managed! I was also trying to paddle, but it is quite hard job, definitely not for creature like me... anyway, we had great afternoon! Bye, Twix (now eating Twix)! |
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dzejna Posted Aug 21, 2010, 7:23 pm |
Hello Mum!
I have visited one more ZOO here in the Czech Republic. This time we went to Dvur Kralove, where is ZOO specialized only in african animals. So now I have even more images with exotic animals, look! On the way back we had a lovely dinner in town Litomysl, where was quite nice historical square. I took couple of images, so you can see it too! Bye for now mum! Twix |
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dzejna Posted Aug 22, 2010, 7:27 pm |
Hi Mum,
today was a small airshow at the village, so we decided to check it out! And you know what we saw? Helicopters and ultralight airplanes... It was great! When we got back, we decided to do a goodbye party for Fed and Timothy III. cause they are both leaving soon. (Timothy III. is brand new TV of my current host). We sat in the garden, enjoyed the sun, good food and colourful drinks! It was very nice and pleasant... Bye, Twix! |
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dzejna Posted Aug 29, 2010, 6:42 pm |
Hello Mum,
today we went for another trip. Our plan was to visit one very nice baroque church and then to visit one of the caves in the Moravian Karst. This baroque church is in village named Krtiny (very difficult to pronounce) and it is dedicated to St. Maria. The church was built in 1718 by very famous Czech architect Jan Santini-Aichel. Here are some pictures from inside… … and outside of the church. There is also a special system of more than 30 bells which plays melodies on special occasions. One of these occasions was also today, so I actually heart it play!! After this cultural visit we went to the karst area to admire the nature. This is the entrance to the area. It is called the “Skalni mlyn”, which is rock mill in translation. Here I am right in front of it. The cave we went to is called Catherine´s Cave. Here we bought the tickets. I also studied some information materials on it. And this is the entrance. Unfortunately the light conditions in this cave were very bad. Though we were trying to get loads of images, these are the best we have… and they are not good at all. Sorry for this mum. On the way home our host showed us one more thing. It looks like a crater in the field. But it is not a crater but a sinkhole. Because this area is full of caves, sometimes the ceiling of one of these caves collapses and this is the result you can see on the surface. And when it rains the water disappears into these sinkholes. And yet I took some photos with nice flowers we saw on the way. Here I am in the chamomile. And here I am with the poppy. And here I am exploring the poppy seed. Funny, isn´t it? (Though not eatable like this... hmm, shame.) And the last images are showing the countryside. That´s it for today. Love, Twix |
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dzejna Posted Sep 1, 2010, 9:07 am |
Hi Mum!
When I found out that I am going home to you soon, I was very happy. But my host told me that I just can´t leave without a proper goodbye. And because everyone knows I am huge fan of good food, my host decided to bake „der Apfel Strudel“ for me and my pals here. As you know this desert has many variations. We did a pretty basic one. You only need a puff pastry, apples, sugar, egg… hmm, and that´s it. First you do this funny shape from the ½ of the puff pastry. I was a bit confused about this shape at first, but my host said I doesn´t matter that much I helped with slicing and grating apples. When you are done with the pastry and apples, you just put them into the middle of the pastry like this. Then sprinkle with vanilla sugar. (At this point we were done, but people put many other things inside such as peanuts, cinnamon, cocoa… ) Then you roll the pastry and close the edges like this. You spread on a whisked egg and that´s it. We did this process again with the second ½ of the pastry and put the tray (with the baking paper) into the oven. The temperature was set for about 150°C. And voila, final touch with sugar on the top and it is finished. YUMMY! Now I had perfect strudel to share as a good-bye food! You can serve it warm or cold, with coffee, whisked cream, custard… anyway you like it! Well mum, see you soon! Twix |
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dzejna Posted Sep 1, 2010, 9:33 am |
Hi mum, I already got my good-bye hug from friends here in the Czech Republic.
And at them moment I am already at the post office! Hope I will reach you soon, look for nice white envelope (nice because I am inside of it ) Yours Twix |
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Nuryko Posted Oct 13, 2010, 12:41 pm |
Hi Mum !
I have arrived last week in France and meet Nuryko and Orel, my new host. And the cat Crevette, but I'm a little bit worried about him. I've also met PinkyHH, another TV. Together we've been to the Vincennes Castle. It's a nice place. After we took the bus to go back home. And this week, LeoTiger joined us. He come from Spain. That's all for today ! Kiss. Twix |
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Nuryko Posted Mar 20, 2011, 5:43 pm |
Hello olgamaus,
Today, we've walked through Fontenay-sous-Bois, around Nuryko's house. Take care, Twix. |
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Nuryko Posted Mar 20, 2011, 5:44 pm |
Hello olgamaus,
LeoTiger, Nuryko, her boyfriend and I went to La Cité des Sciences (The City of Sciences) to visit an expo about science-fiction. We had great time. Here are some pictures. Take care, Twix. |
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Nuryko Posted Mar 20, 2011, 5:48 pm |
We had great time playing deBlob on Playstation 3 with Becks, LeoTiger, Rendolph and Selly.
Twix. |
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Nuryko Posted Mar 20, 2011, 5:57 pm |
Hello olgamaus !
I haven't give you news for a long time. Sooooo sorry ! I've spent Christmas Holydays in France at Nuryko's home. There was snowing. The day after Christmas, we go out to see the snow and we've found a little Christmas village. Love, Twix. |
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Nuryko Posted Mar 21, 2011, 7:43 pm |
Dear Mom,
I'm on my way to home ! Will soon be with you. Love. Twix ! |
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olgamaus Posted Sep 10, 2011, 8:21 pm |
I just want everbody to know that I am on my way to Russia now!
Twix |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Sep 29, 2011, 9:25 pm |
Hi, mom! Finally I’ve arrived to Russia, to my host’s house. From Germany I brought her postcard and Twix, you know, a surprise present There I met my new friend – Kioko from England. What a wonderful meeting! He told me a lot about her adventures in Moscow and now I want to visit the same Sights! From what are we going to start? I can’t wait for it!
Aaaaa! Who is that horrible monster?? He took my present and run away!! How scary! My host told me, that his name is Faust and he’s a magic pet. He was found in the forest and decided to live in this flat. Faust is so strange – may be, he’s a gremlin? But what about my present? What should I do? But the next moment another frightening creature began to fight with Faust! She threw him on the bed, took away Twix and gave it to me! Oh, it’s my host’s dog, Martisha! She is brave and I like her |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Sep 29, 2011, 9:44 pm |
Hi, mom! Today my host would like to show me his dacha – garden-house, besides it’s time to take apples!! I made a couple of photos in hothouse – with paprika and tomatoes. Aleksey Petrovich – grandpa of my host have lived in summer-house for last 10 years, all the time! And he eats only his own vegetables and fruits
There are two apple trees in the garden and they are so beautiful! One sort is called Antonovka and another – Red side. You know, second tree belongs personally to my host – it was planted at day of her birthday – 21 year ago! And it’s the first time, it fructified. The apples are delicious and my host is so happy! Together we took near 100 kilos of fruits – 5 huge bags! And it was really difficult – to reach our home without a car, on train There are thousands of people in that train, all with millions of apples! But it worth all troubles You can see how we cook these apples. First – cut them into small pieces. Then – put them into a special drying machine – “sushilka”. And each 20 apples turn into one plate of dried ones. So, next weekend we are going to dacha again for next bags till the season of fructification wouldn’t finish! |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Oct 7, 2011, 9:24 pm |
Hi, mom! Today I visited a super-exhibition “Zverek na ladoshke” – “A pet on your hand” – the biggest Russian event in this sphere. As you can understand, it’s a show of hamsters, rats, degu, gerbils, mice and other cute little creatures. My host’s father works in this business – his firm sells goods, feeds and cages for rodents, so he asked me to give a little advertising in my blog. Well, why not? But the other shops there were very good and picturesque too! And what a beautiful cage I found – with a sea, beach and palm-trees! Oh, I love it!! There is only one thing, I can’t understand, why don’t they sell Twixes? I’m a rodent who adores them, I’m sure, other rodents do too! What a pity
Then, when we entered into a room with animals, I’m a little bit shocked. There are hundreds of them!! Different kinds, different sizes, different colors, different voices, they all were rodents! I took photos with a little part, and one hamster try to bit my ear o_O And I fall in love with a skinny pig - an almost hairless breed of Guinea pig. They look like little hippos!! There were a lot of different competitions for animals – marathon of rats, color of skin of hamsters, intellect of mice. And for their owners – competition of drawings, costumes, poems. I think that I deserve all these goblets! What can I say – I’m the rat, who writes in his own blog! And I look fantastic! And then we saw on the wall a little picture with strikethrough rat – I can’t understand, what does it mean? Why can’t I go inside? Oh, there were many scary creatures in the next room! Do some people keep them in houses? How frightening! One lizard tries to taste me! One snake looks at me with hunger! The cutest animal that I met – a snail! In the next room there was a meeting of snail owners, discusses their most healthy food, nice aquariums et cetera. I fed one of them with an apple, I think she loves it And last but not least pets that I met – birds! They were so beautiful! They sang and chirped, and many people bought them! I wish, I could meet them in native nature |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Oct 14, 2011, 5:54 pm |
Hi, mom! Today we’ve walked with my host’s dogs in Filevskij park. It’s autumn now, so all trees are yellow and bright! There are so many leaves, they rustle under your feet and I saw 2 girls with a bunch of them As we walked near Moscow-river, I could take some fantastic photos from the “beach” – Masha told me that lots of people swim there in winter – Russians call them walruses. And I met fisherman, he gave me his rod – but I can’t understand, how he could fish in the city – may be the water is dirty and there are no fishes but mutants?
And one of the most interesting sights of the Moscow-river is lock – the only lock in Moscow - a device for raising and lowering boats between stretches of water of different levels on river and canal waterways. We even saw a steamship there! There are many places for making shashlick – meat or fish cooked with a long pin, normally made of metal or wood. My host adore soya sausages, cooked in the park by herself. They are delicious And don’t forget about modern playgrounds and horizontal bar – everything for help children be healthy! I saw seesaw, merry-go-round, swingset, slide, jungle gym, chin-up bars, sandbox, spring rider, monkey bars, overhead ladder, trapeze rings, playhouses, and mazes! Wow! What a pity, that I’m not a child! And at the end of our journey we sight a manger for squirrel!You can notice a table with a request for feeding birds and animals in this park, for keeping them in cold winter. Slowly and quietly I stole into it and began to wait for a squirrel. And voilà! A little but cute animal wasn’t frightened by me and ate some nuts that we gave her! What a wonderful experience! |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Oct 30, 2011, 2:18 pm |
Hi, mom!
This weekend we’ve visited Kremlin! Wow, I think, I should come to Moscow again, because it is such a wonderful place and has such an interesting histiry! My host thought that I should know everything about it, but of course, now I can remember only a small part. You can see, first we were standing a huge queue near the white Kutafja Tower (from the word “fat clumsy woman”) and had a chance to take photos on the swallows’ tail – they are situated on each access road of Kremlin. And the view is so beautiful! Then we saw the most interesting exhibits of this museum – the Tsar-Bell and the Tsar-Cannon. The Tsar-Bell was made of bronze and it is currently the largest bell in the world, weighing 201,924 kilograms, with a height of 6.14 metres and diameter of 6.6 metres, and thickness of up to 61 centimetres. The bell is decorated with relief images of baroque angels, plants, oval medallions with saints, and nearly life-size images of Empress Anna and Tsar Alexey. Unfortunately, before the last ornamentation was completed, a major fire broke out at the Kremlin in May 1737. The fire spread to the temporary wooden support structure for the bell, and fearing damage, guards threw cold water on it, causing eleven cracks, and a huge (11.5 tons) slab to crack off. The broken piece weighs 11,500 kilograms, you can compare it with the crowd around – it’s as tall as a man! Some people believe that on Judgement Day, it will be miraculously repaired and lifted up to heaven, where it will ring the blagovest (call to prayer). The Tsar-Cannon was cast in 1586 in Moscow, by the Russian master bronze caster Andrey Chokhov. Mostly of symbolic impact, it was never fired in war. Per the Guinness Book of Records it is the largest bombard by caliber in the world. The very low ratio between its calibre and the length of its barrel makes it technically not a cannon, but a stylized mortar. The Tsar Cannon weighs 39.312 tones and has a length of 5.34 m. Its bronze-cast barrel has a diameter of 890 mm, and an external diameter of 1,200 mm. The spherical cast-iron projectiles located in front of the cannon - each of which weighs 1.97 tons, were produced in 1834 as a decoration. There are many cannons in Kremlin, I made a photo with not so big one. Then you can see The Ivan the Great Bell Tower - the tallest of the towers in the Moscow Kremlin complex, with a total height of 81 metres. It was built in 1508 for the Russian Orthodox cathedrals in Cathedral Square, which do not have their own belfries, and is said to mark Moscow's precise geographic centre. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower today contains 22. Of these, 18 small bells hang in the base and in the middle of the bell tower. Of the four large bells, one is named the Upsenskij Bell, and weighs 65.5 tons. It rings traditionally among the largest religious festivals such as Easter, and was made in the early 16th century. Next building with great triangle golden roof and domes is The Cathedral of the Annunciation (Blagoveschensky sobor). It was originally the personal chapel for the Muscovite tsars, and its abbot remained a personal confessor of the Russian royal family until the early 20th century. Compared with the other major Kremlin cathedrals, the Annunciation Cathedral has slightly smaller dimensions. It is also built in a more traditional style, as it was created by local architects from Pskov, rather than Italian expatriate architects. The most characteristic feature of the building is its nine golden domes, and roof with rich kokoshnik ornamentation in an ogive form. Next beautiful cathedral with frescos is The Cathedral of the Dormition (Uspensky sobor). The Cathedral is regarded as the mother church of Muscovite Russia. In its present form it was 1475-79 at the behest of the Moscow Grand Duke Ivan III by the Italian architect Aristotele Fioravanti. From 1547 to 1896 it is where the Coronation of the Russian monarch was held. In addition, it is the burial place for most of the Moscow Metropolitans and Patriarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church. However, one of the most important cult images of the Russian Orthodox Church, the Theotokos of Vladimir kept at the Cathedral from 1395-1919 is now at the Tretyakov Gallery. Near the south entrance to the Cathedral is the Monomach Throne of Ivan IV (1551). Verkhospassky Cathedral with eleven small golden domes was constructed by tsar Michael Fedorovichem in 1635-1636. From this temple the ladder conducted to a seigniorial platform where decrees, orders of the tsar were read to boyars, and the tsar presented boyars and near people birthday pies. Divine services in it aren't made. The Grand Kremlin Palace was built from 1837 to 1849 on the site of the estate of the Grand Princes, which had been established in the 14th century on Borovitsky Hill. Designed by a team of architects under the management of Konstantin Thon, it was intended to emphasize the greatness of Russian autocracy. The Grand Kremlin Palace was formerly the tsar's Moscow residence. Thon's palace is 125 meters long, 47 meters high, and has a total area of about 25,000 square meters. It includes the earlier Terem Palace, nine churches from the 14th, 16th, and 17th centuries, the Holy Vestibule, and over 700 rooms. Now it carries out a role of smart president residence of Russia. Important nation-wide ceremonials pass in its halls, such as delivery of the state awards or credentials. You can see that big national flag is lowered on the spike. It means that Russian president is out now, but he could come back every minute! |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Oct 30, 2011, 5:22 pm |
Hi mom!
Today my host has taught me, how to cook falafel - a deep fried patty made from ground chickpeas. She said that it’s a wonderful source of protein for vegetarians and that it’s a traditional dish for eaten throughout the Middle East. I tried to make as many photos as I could. First you must take ground chickpeas (near 150 gr.) and soak them in water over night the day before cooking. You can see, that they really change their size! I compare them with the dry ones on my 5th photo. Then chop and blend ground chickpeas in a food processor until the beans are the consistency of fine bread crumbs. Put in a large bowl. Next put the onion, cilantro, parsley and fennel in the blender and blend until it is a paste consistency, add to bean mixture. To the bowl add the cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper and mix very well. Mold the falafel mixture into small patty on the spoon and drop into oil to fry to keep the color an even brown on all sides, when they are a medium brown color, remove the balls and drain on a paper towel for a minute. Serve warm and fresh with a traditional Russian dish – pickled cabbage! |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Nov 6, 2011, 1:22 pm |
Hi, mom! Today I decided to visit one of the most famous and interesting museums - Darvinovskiy museum (in honor of Charles Darwin). The exhibition is soo huge! At the first room you can see scary prehistoric animals (of course their sculptures, but in their REAL SIZE). Wow, what a huge lemur it is! Even a man looks small near it!
Then I had a lot of fun, watching hundreds of different animals. The exposition shares in habitats, so you can understand, how important is a balance of nature. I saw fishes, insects, birds, grass-feeding animals and predators. The most pleasant and funny thing in Darvinovskiy museum is its multimedia devices. For example, you can see me on a big toad that croaks like 4 different kinds of toads from over the World! And a machine that sings like a bird. Now I know, how a snipe and black grouse sings It's fantastic! Also I really enjoy scales that can tell you, how much mice or bears or gorillas do you weight. And another one - how much would you weight on Moon or Saturn. Interesting! There were a lot of special pictures on the walls with real wool and fur of different animals, so you can touch them! Look at me, I'm embracing a white bear! You can learn many things from expositions of this museum and it's a really good idea - slowly walk there with your child. You can see the similarity of structure of rabbit's skeleton and snake's skeleton. And of course, you can learn a lot about history of zoology, with a global role of Darwin in it |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Nov 21, 2011, 6:50 am |
Hi, mom! This weekend my host with her friend suggests me to visit Park Pobedy - Victory Park - a public park in the west side of Moscow. The name of the park was given in honor of Victory in the Second World War. Our adventure began in metro, where we took a wonderful photo of stained-glass window with soviet soldier and happy people. I can’t imagine more joyful event then the finish of war! The memorial complex has been opened on May, 9th, 1995 to the 50 anniversary of a great Victory.
When we have risen on street we saw the main avenue «Years of war». It consists of five terraces symbolizing five years of war. There are many monuments that symbolize different fronts - Belarus, Ukrainian, Finnish and others. 1418 fountains stay over five water tables— so much days proceeded war and blood flew. In the area center on a granite podium Saint George's statue kills a dragon with a spear — it’s a symbol of a victory of good over evil. And near there is a fantastic Saint George 's temple – so impressive! We decided to visit the unique open-air exhibition of combat material and engineering constructions. There are presented more than 300 samples of heavy machinery of the USSR and its allies, Germany and its allies that were taking part in battles. I took so many photos! You can see tanks, entrenchments, boundary boxes, pictures, anti-tank mines… And wow, I like planes so much!!! But I’m surprised that they are really small – just for one person. It is impossible to compare with modern passenger planes that I used to fly. And what an amusing helicopter with eyes! I can't believe that it is its real coloring, but everything could happen! And last but not least my photo from the avenue of a newly-married couple. It’s a great Moscow tradition – Couples, who are really fall in love should make wedding ceremony here and run through this road. It’s so sweet. |
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Dangerousebeans Posted Nov 21, 2011, 8:24 am |
Hi, mom! As it’s my last post from Moscow, my host promised that she’ll show me something surprising this weekend! She told me that Moscow is well-known as an “old” city with ancient buildings such as the Kremlin or The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Meanwhile, there is one of the most modern and futuristic buildings in the World - Moscow International Business Center – it’s is a commercial district of central Moscow and combine business activity, living space and entertainment in one single development. An estimated 250,000 – 300,000 people will be working, living, or visiting the complex at any given time, when it is finished. Now it contains 7 towers with such names as Mercury Tower or Federation Tower and many smaller buildings with Expocenter and Terminal. The height of towers is simply unimaginable, it exceeds 300 meters for some of them. You can see the Bagration pedestrian bridge that connect two part of this quarter. What a fantastic view!
And for telling Moscow goodbye, my last photos represent an old church just near the Moscow Center. It make me peace and joyful. I’m ready for new adventures now! |
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olgamaus Posted Dec 17, 2011, 8:59 pm |
Today I came home after having a fantastic time in Russia. Thank you so much Dangerousebeans!
I brought a bar of chocolate with me, my Mum likes the wrapping so much that she said it would be a pity to open it. Tomorrow I will show her a way to enjoy the chocolate and keep the wrapping intact. My Mummy also told me that she already saved some of my photos from Russia to nominate them for the GoldenBears Awards 2011. Twix |
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olgamaus Posted Jan 23, 2012, 9:59 pm |
I just want everybody know that I am on my way to my next host now.
Twix |
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RKBonny Posted Jan 27, 2012, 9:56 am |
Yesterday, twix the love rat traveled to us. Immediately after arriving, he was very tired and fell asleep immediately. This morning I caught him in the fridge and the pantry. After breakfast, my son was playing with him and our little Toy friends | ||
RKBonny Posted Feb 23, 2012, 2:29 pm |
Today we visited little Mike, which lies since its birth in the hospital. Soon he will hope one year old and parents which he soon home may.
His mother (woman on the photo) is a good friend of my guestmommy. Naturally he wanted to only eat and disappeared in the cafeteria |
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RKBonny Posted Mar 22, 2012, 6:53 am |
Hello Mummy, sorry that we write here so late. My guestmummy was ill and stay in hospital
Here some photos of my last time |
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RKBonny Posted Mar 22, 2012, 7:31 am |
oh sorry here are the photos =) | ||
olgamaus Posted Oct 6, 2012, 1:01 pm |
After hanging around in Remscheid for some months Mum told me that I can travel again. I am so happy because the weather here is just disgusting, have a look!
Mum told me that I will go to Switzerland. That sounds great - sounds like chocolate, more chocolate, cough drops, mountains, snow ... snow? Mum told me that in October there probably would be no snow, but chocolate Switzerland, I'm coming! Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 12, 2012, 9:50 am |
Hello mum,
What an arrival here in Switzerland. Actually I arrived yesterday. But, the whole family left the house at 8 clock in the morning and the postman brought me by 10 clock. I missed my first trip to 2 hours and then had to spend the night in my jacket because everyone came home so late. Frustrating, I even lost the desire for chocolate. Then, this morning, I was dreaming of snow and Swiss cheese, my envelope was dragged around and I heard laughter and whispers. Anyone have cut an opening and a yellow beak pecking at me. Still a bit sleepy, I climbed out and many funny fellows talked to me. They grabbed me by giving me a group hug. There Salmonella is from Wales, Meomie from Vietnam, Carolin come from Austria and Nils, Lola Rabbit and Sausi Karl are from Germany. And then the shock of my life. Suddenly, a huge furry monster sniffed at me. A cat! The biggest cat I've ever seen. I died instantly. After host mum had revived me, she told me that this animal eats no meat, and certainly no TV's. I was a little calmed down and was able to welcome Timi, the second cat. Oh mum, my little heart beating violently, but still it could be fun here. When host mum was not lying. Hope to see you Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 12, 2012, 2:38 pm |
Hi mum,
It's me again. I think I'm in heaven. After my shock this morning I once looked around a bit. You do not think I've found everything. A jar of sweets. Just stand around. A small cake (TV size). Just stood there. A few olives, some black forest ham and cheese, real Emmentaler. What all standing around here. I was not in the fridge, I swear. What will we eat for dinner? I'll still look around a bit. Bye mum Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 14, 2012, 9:00 am |
Hello mum,
on Friday have been something special for dinner. Cheese Fondue! With long forks we were allowed to stir in the hot cheese. It was fun and tasted very, very good. Best regards, Twix P.S. The big cat and I now have an agreement. I'll get her the treats and she do not eat me. |
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Jasper Posted Oct 15, 2012, 8:47 pm |
Hi mum,
Yesterday we made a trip to Klosters and Davos. The weather was cloudy and cold. We needed something to warm up. Thick skin and hot coffee was the right thing. Klosters is a small village with hotels, hotels, hotels. Some pretty, some not. Then we drove on to Davos, the highest town in Europe. Host mum finds Davos ugly. Too many ugly buildings in this wonderful scene. This is the main street of Davos. Here you see the convention center. It annually hosts the World Economic Forum. This is the ice hockey stadium. Every year between Christmas and New Year, the Spengler Cup is played. Here we pose in front of the Hilton hotel. The most beautiful thing we saw in Davos was this small lake. and chocolate. Because we all wanted to see the snow, host dad drove to the Flüela Pass. You can see how high it is? The snow was very close, but it melts during the day. It's still a bit too warm. Whoa, too warm. It was 3 degrees. The pass looks like a moonscape. Only stones and boulders fields. Slightly lower down, we saw the most beautiful larch forests. Golden Autumn. This newly built bridge took us back home. Hope you are well, miss you. Twix Sorry for so much fingers, host mum has a new camera, she is learning. |
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Jasper Posted Oct 20, 2012, 9:11 am |
Hello mum,
Today we were in Quinten, a small village on the northern shore of Walensee. This really small village (about 60 people) can only be reached by boat or on foot. We took the boat. Due to its special location Quinten has an almost Mediterranean climate. Besides wine, there grow palms and figs. The Foehn wind blew very strong, almost 70 kilometers per hour. By the wind, it was very warm. Was it yesterday, 10 degrees in the afternoon, we had 26 today. The distant view was wonderful. We have enjoyed this afternoon. Hugs and kisses Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 21, 2012, 4:23 pm |
Hi mum,
Yesterday we drove to Schwägalp. This pass is 1300 meters high and is located at the foot of the Säntis. First we admired a old coach. A special trip for great TV's. How funny. At 2,502.9 meters above sea level, Säntis is the tallest mountain in the Alpstein massif of northeastern Switzerland. The mountain is a highly visible landmark thanks to its exposed northerly location within the Alpstein massif. The panorama from the summit is spectacular. Six countries can be seen if the weather allows: Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France, and Italy. By a cable car you can reach the top. The so-called Säntismord (English: Säntismurder) happened in the winter of 1922. It refers to a crime in which the weather station keeper and his wife were murdered. The murder was only discovered because of missing weather reports on February 21. As a result of the missing reports, a search party was sent to Säntis, where they discovered the bodies. The prime suspect was shoemaker Gregor Anton Kreuzpointer, who committed suicide three weeks after the murder. The truth about this double murder hence remains unclear to this day. So creepy. As we sat on the rocks came a jackdaw and wanted to get me. Host dad could still save me. Schwägalp is also very popular with motorcyclists. As you can see here. On our way home we discovered an old stagecoach. For special occasions, it runs today. It is pulled by 4 horses. A hot air balloon, we have also seen. It was a wonderful day. Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 24, 2012, 3:54 pm |
Hello all at home,
Our last trip was to the Principality of Lichtenstein. In Vaduz, the capital, we saw the town hall. It was built in 1932/33. The castle was built in the 13th Century and serves as the residence of the royal family. Therefore it can not be visited. We saw a miniature of the castle. The Principality is also very famous for its stamps. In the pedestrian zone known examples are shown for road paving. Here you see the special stamp in honor of the wedding of the crown prince. Lichtenstein is also known for its banks. Here is the National Bank. This building is home to the parliament. On our way home we had a great view over the Rhine Valley. Best regards Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 28, 2012, 10:34 am |
Hi all,
When we woke up this morning our host mum said we should look out the window. Snow! Over night snow had fallen and it still snows. We immediately put on our hats and scarves and went out onto the balcony. What a beauty. Meomie has never seen snow. She was almost mad with joy. Haha mum, did you say no snow in October? I sank in snow. After we played a few times in the snow, our host mum called back to the apartment. They pulled us out of the wet clothes and grabbed us in a warm blanket. Was that a fun. Hugs and kisses Twix |
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Jasper Posted Oct 31, 2012, 3:33 pm |
Hi mum,
Today is Halloween and I have worked hard the last few days. Pumpkin carving was not so easy. And my costume for tonight, I had to make yet. I'll show you, but not tell anyone, it's a surprise. I'm ready for trick or treat, let's go. Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 1, 2012, 10:48 am |
Hello mum,
we had a great Halloween night. When it was dark we put on our costumes and headed off. Trick or Treat. We saw spooky pumpkins and other scary creatures. We rang at many doors, and anywhere we got sweets. Today we can swim in it. I love Halloween! Sweet greetings Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 2, 2012, 3:43 pm |
Hi mum,
Today we said goodbye to Sausi Karl and Yuma. Sausi Karl travels to Vienna to Carolin's mum and Yuma travels to Lichtenfels in Franconia. As a farewell host mum has baked cookies. We have all eaten immediately. Yummy. Then we hugged Sausi Karl and Yuma and wished a safe journey. Much love back home Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 6, 2012, 3:26 pm |
Hi mum
Sunday I went with host father to a soccer match. St.Gallen against Sion. Before the game, we drank a beer. I needed some help, the glass was so high. After looking at the pitch we have set ourselves to our seats. St.Gallen played poorly. A player was sent off and Sion went 1-0 ahead. In the second half, Sion made a further 2 goals. The fans celebrated enthusiastically. St.Gallen missed with this defeat the standings. After the game we enjoyed another beer and a bratwurst. Then it started to rain and I got a cold. Host mum gave me cough drops, now everything is fine again. Love you mum |
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Jasper Posted Nov 11, 2012, 12:52 pm |
Hello mum,
yesterday we made another trip. To Appenzell, where the famous cheese comes from. On our way there we drove through the foothills. The weather was so-so. Cloudy and cold. In Appenzell we saw many brightly painted houses. This is the town hall. We admired art. One of them wanted to eat me. Then we visited the show dairy. Here we could see how Appenzeller cheese is made. The cheese cellar is huge. Here you see a small part of it. In the museum a cheese hut is recreated. We sat down in a copper pot in which the milk is heated. Then we lay in the bed of the dairy maid. In the cheese shop I got very hungry on cheese rolls. At the end of our trip we have set ourselves on a cow. That was very funny. Many greetings, Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 14, 2012, 6:26 pm |
Hello mum
as host mum came home from work, she brought an envelope. We were very curious, as always. The envelope was nibbled A corner was missing. The Post had noticed it and pulled a transparent cover over it. When we opened all the envelopes, came out a little rabbit. We introduced ourselves and embraced. Lola was very pleased to welcome a little rabbit. Then we had to take a nap. Two birthday parties make successively tired. I think we will have lots of fun with the bunny. Bye for now Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 17, 2012, 7:28 pm |
Hello mum and all at home,
One week it was gray and damp. Today we had enough of the fog and decided to look for the sun. The Tannenbodenalp was the destination of our excursion. The Alp is located about 1400 meters above sea level. It should be high enough for the sun. After a few minutes driving time we saw the sea of fog below us. On the Tannenbodenalp we had gorgeous weather and a good view to the mountains On a small bank, we took a short break. We enjoyed the beautiful weather and the view. On our way home we admired the autumn mood at the lake. The sunset made a beautiful day perfect. I love all you Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 24, 2012, 10:02 am |
Hello mum
our last trip brought us to Stein am Rhein, a small town in the canton of Schaffhausen. Stein am Rhein is located where the river Rhine leaves Lake Constance. The small town is home to a number of buildings that are listed as Swiss heritage sites of national significance. Stein am Rhein received the first Wakker Prize for the preservation of its architectural heritage in 1972. The award noted that Stein am Rhein was nearly unique in Switzerland and rare. In all of Europe for the number of notable buildings in a compact space It therefore noted the excellent care with Which the city which preserved. Here I show you some of the beautiful houses. A little break. A beautiful place on the Rhine. I am in paradis.Unfortunately I had to leave it again. Host mum insisted that I come back home. So many beautiful buildings. That's it for today, see you soon. Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 25, 2012, 8:34 am |
Hi mum,
it's me again. When I came into the kitchen this morning, there sat a sweet, little ladybug and nibbling on a piece of apple. It was Helga HH, a new TV that arrived when I was still asleep. We introduced ourselves and HelgaHH showed us the postcard and the sweets she had brought. We gave her a group hug and welcomed her warmly. Then we have told many TV adventure. I think we will have lots of fun together. Hugs and Kisses Twix |
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Jasper Posted Nov 26, 2012, 6:03 pm |
Hello mum
Here is the last update from Switzerland. Yesterday host mum has told me that I continue to travel. I'm a little sad. I had here so many friends and sweets. But Hostmum told me I must not be sad. I will again meet new friends and there are also sweets, especially before Christmas. And I have not to travel alone. Carolin and I are traveling to the same host. So we packed up our stuff. A postcard from Switzerland and chocolate must also in the envelope. Our friends wished us a good and safe trip. Then we slipped into our envelope. Bye, bye Switzerland - Germany here we come. See you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Nov 30, 2012, 1:12 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today Carolin and I arrived in Erfurt. The weather here is horrible. We were welcomed by all quite nice, especially the cat. The fact has looked into the envelope as we wanted to climb out. Then I smelled something sweet and found. Was not a Twix but Mars but also had to go for now. See you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 5, 2012, 1:34 pm |
Hi Mum
Carolin was actually her idea: we make coffee not bad for Yumi. After all Yumi fits so on to us. Mr Pumba, Carolin and I are so come on, booted up like a cat purring legs so no one gets with us, and wanted to cook the coffee. And when they had an entire bag of Twix. Mr Pumba still thought: uh hello Twix coffee cook not take host moms bag in fog. That was me but somehow no matter wil the bag Twix was important to me. So MY bag. Carolin and Mr Pumba have my bag with me then carried back to bed. Actually I wanted to eat them, but what I had so triumphantly in my hand was suddenly gone. I am then once turned slowly and saw that it had Yumi in the fingers. I then slightly waved. Good Morning Yumi! I ate times then empty my bag. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 6, 2012, 4:51 pm |
Hi Mummy
In Erfurt is very Cold and the snow was falling. Today, Santa Claus was there. Mama said, oh what's that, and we are first to go as exciting as looking was is. We then put on each one shoe. And also all purely watched simultaneously. While it was the same everywhere in it but still nice. We then put it all together and found that we will need to pretty it all is. Unless I was faster. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 10, 2012, 2:06 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today we did eat. There were potatoes with cottage cheese. Carolin has touched the quark and Mr Pumba peeled the potatoes. I had Carolin help because it was not high. Then Mr Pumba cut the potatoes. Then we were done and Yumi came. Finally, we turned on the Christmas pyramid. That was really nice. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 10, 2012, 4:16 pm |
Hi Mummy
How are you? Today we said goodbye to Minnie. She travels to Minnesota. Hopefully it goes down well. This is a long journey. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 13, 2012, 9:02 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today we said goodbye to Serpifeu Just kind of ... he had problems to get the candy into the envelope ... Then he said goodbye ... and it almost cried ... ... then he's not even get into the envelope, we have been wondering if we should push times. The answer to: No I own sheep. Oh that was a fun. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 18, 2012, 10:58 am |
Hello Mummy
Today we was on the Christmas Market. It was so interrested. host mom told me that there are many objects and to drink plenty of mulled wine. Next saturday comes the coca.cola truck. See you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 18, 2012, 11:02 am |
Hi Mummy
Today we was at the Christmas Market again and see the Coca-Cola Truck and Santa Claus. Was so amazing. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 18, 2012, 11:22 am |
Hi Mummy
Today, Draco and I played with host moms Tablet and then eaten Twix. Host mom was sitting behind the play, so it will not break. The others were still asleep and Carolin even snuggled with Mr Pumba. How sweet. Love you Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 20, 2012, 1:40 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today we open the adventscalendar from hostmum. She have for of them. That was presents. Yummy. Love you. Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Dec 20, 2012, 1:57 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today we become post from Lady Katherine Was really nice from her. Then we say hello to a new guest Suomi-girl She was very nice. We are all really great for christmas. Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Jan 13, 2013, 12:31 pm |
Hello Mummy
sorry that I'm not as long reported. I'm fine. Today we got a new girlfriend. Her name is Reika. She is very nice and also had the same idea for ToyVoyagers without Traveltag. Then she went out first and has viewed the waterfront. Here it's snowing. Here it is very funny but I miss you. love you your Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Jan 27, 2013, 2:30 pm |
Hi Mummy
Today we said goodbye to Suomi-girl. She travels to the capital of Germany, to Berlin. I hope she is well received and not lost. Good luck [img]farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8419224805_dc4b72297c.jpg[/img] I'll write again later Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Jan 27, 2013, 3:07 pm |
Hello Mummy
Today we have helped hostmom when tinkering. She wants basten a Disney castle together. She loves Disney really. It's almost eerie. What she wanted to tinker a haunted house together. That is the first part. it was very funny because host mom had to tinker then tired and has ceased. That's it first for Today. Bye Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Jan 30, 2013, 7:01 pm |
Hey Mummy
Today Mr Draco and Pumba have left. Where to? Mr Pumba goes back home and Draco, who travels to China. (here it smells delicious) Reika has then brought them candy. (crinkle crinkle crinkle crinkle) is yummy yummy. What are you looking at for all this, I was too loud. Well what? I was hungry. Then we said goodbye. And both have climbed into their envelopes. Bye you two. Bye Twix |
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Evenesca Posted Feb 2, 2013, 10:47 am |
Hello Mummy
Today a big day is for me. My trip to Bavaria stands in a queue. Mushu also leaves, I know only not where. Reika has brought us sweets. mmhh look tasty. then we had to put away them. then we have said bye. In the envelope and on it goes. Bye Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Feb 11, 2013, 6:42 pm |
Hi mom,
I arrived in Bavaria today and Zed Dog and host-mum gave me a warm welcome! Your Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Feb 11, 2013, 7:01 pm |
Heyyyyyy~
today Sabrina showed me her hometown Mantel Brrr, it was such a cold and snowy day! In summer, host-mum likes to sit on one of the benches in the background and read Uh, look what's the special offer at the butcher today: goulash soup Yummy, made me so hungry <3 I'm standing on a bridge here and looking down on the road that leads to Weiden. Host-mum went to school there and now works in Weiden. It's a nice view but I was really scared of falling down :O This is the market place with a pharmacy, the post office, bank, three bakeries, a nice restaurant and even a vet, which is good in case I get sick, hehe ^o^ One of the churches in Mantel. Woops, where am I? Love you, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Feb 19, 2013, 7:12 pm |
Hello
Today I went to a café with host-mum, she often spends time there in the morning before she has to go to work. We ate a pretzel with butter and drank a coffee! Yummy! (: I was even reading an old newspaper from 8th February. (They handed out the "new" one just before we were leaving ) It's called "Der neue Tag" and it's the local newspaper of Weiden / the Upper Palatinate. Hugs, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Feb 26, 2013, 8:29 pm |
Today host-mum took me to work with her. We took the bus to Weiden!
When we arrived we could see the town hall. There are usually a lot of interesting exhibitions inside. I looked at a map of Weiden and host-mum showed me where her workplace is. While we were waiting for the next bus I took a look around the bus station. Can you see that big building in the background? It's where the newspaper "Der neue Tag" is printed. The one I was reading when host-mum and I had breakfast. Do you remember? The building behind me is the one host-mum works in. Sooo many doors, steps and corridors @_@ Luckily I didn't get lost. Sabrina's workspace! Though she's in a different office each day. Here's the lounge. The couch you can see there is really cosy, I tried it myself :P See you, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Mar 10, 2013, 5:19 pm |
We went for a walk today because host-mum didn't have to work and the weather was so beautiful in the morning.
When I held my hand in the water I got goosebumps. So cold! >//< Isn't the sky beautiful? *___* That was one of the only trees that still had leaves xD When we came to that snowy field I begged host-mum to build a snowman ;> So I started to roll the first snowball ... ... and this is the result. I know he looks more like an alien than a snowman but that's all we could do without gloves. Ah, my hands were really red and frozen afterwards. *shivers* Finally we arrived in the woods after a 30 minutes walk ^__^ We took a short break and some nice photos until host-mum suddenly got a call from her boss who told her that she had to work after all >_< She can be such a monster sometimes. That's why we had to rush back home and couldn't stay longer to take more photos. When Sabrina came back from work late in the evening we drank a cup of tea and she read a fairytale out of "Grimms Märchenbuch" to me :> Hugs, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Mar 27, 2013, 2:11 pm |
Today we went to a playground near host-mum's former school!
There was still so much snow >_< You can see the school in the background, it's quite an impressive building *__* |
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WingedWolf Posted Mar 31, 2013, 4:11 pm |
Hi Mommy,
today kleinerKobaer arrived and we helped him out of the envelope and gave him a warm welcome He brought a nice postcard from Chemnitz, Germany and some sweets we shared. I was the first to open them Later that day we made a cake for Easter. It's a small bunny ^_^ We put it in the oven and waited It was very delicious ♥ Love, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Mar 31, 2013, 4:14 pm |
HAPPY EASTER !!!!
Hope you have a nice day at home I went out with Zed Dog and kleinerKobaer to search for some eggs and we found some! ^_^ Host-mum gave everyone of us a piece of chocolate out of the little Easter bucket she got from her parents. Yummy! Best wishes, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Apr 26, 2013, 3:07 pm |
Today we went to the library to help host-mum's sister and a good friend with a presentation they had to do for school.
It was about the "history of film" , a very interesting topic I think. When we first got there the table looked like this -> ... but we came with all our books about movies *___* ... and did some research. This is a very popular photo, it appears in the book "The invention of Hugo Cabret" and in the movie "Hugo". Do you know it? Here's another famous movie "The wizard of Oz" We sat there about 3 or 4 hours and only finished half of the presentation. So exhausting! I got hungry from all the reading Maybe we will come back next week. It was a lot of fun! There even was a nice lady from the library who asked if she could take a photo of us for a newspaper article about students learning in the library. How cool! ;> Love, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Apr 26, 2013, 4:55 pm |
Hiii Mom ^__^
Today we went for a little walk in the morning. It was quite windy and rainy but still a beautiful day. So we went host-mum's favorite way up to the woods, do you remember it? I was there with her already about a month ago but back then there was still snow everywhere. Last time we had to rush back because host-mum had to work but today we had a lot of time! *___* Everywhere you're standing you have a very nice view. We came by lots of fields and benches There's usually water running through that pipe but it's all dried up now. Me, kleinerKobaer and Zed Dog found an interesting tree stem! There was so much moss covering it. Wow! Another pile of tree stems, can you find me there? The sky turned quite dark after a while and just when we arrived at the woods it started to pour. Only for a short moment though. I found a bird house!! And here I'm standing on the ladder to an old abandoned hunter's cabin. Look, there's a heart floating on the water puddle. So cute! ^o^ On our way back we saw some nice blossoms, which means spring is finally here, thank god! Hugs, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Apr 26, 2013, 5:22 pm |
Hello there,
we went to see St. Moritz church near host-mum's home today! You can read about it here . It's very beautiful! That's the side view. And here's the front view! You can get all the important information from here There's even a little memorial place not far from the church. Love, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted May 16, 2013, 8:29 pm |
Hi mommy,
these days three new TVs from Germany arrived at host-mum's place and we greeted them warmly. They are called Freya, HelgaHH and Stripes. Well, how do they say? The more the merrier! Love, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted May 16, 2013, 8:37 pm |
Today host-mum went to Admira Park with me after work! It's located near the town hall in Weiden.
I loved all the beautiful flowers and I was so glad that the sun was shining because yesterday and the day before it rained The building in the background is called "Max-Reger-Halle" and they often perform plays, dances and other nice things there Hugs, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Jun 11, 2013, 8:35 pm |
Hello mommy,
after all the rain in Bavaria it was finally warm again today so we took the chance and went to the nearby Max Reger Park in Weiden. Look! We even saw a small mouse, it's so cute! In the park there even is a playground! We saw a lot of small sweet birds in cages! That's host-mum's favourite place in the park! ^o^ Hugs, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Jun 24, 2013, 8:28 pm |
Hi mommy,
We welcomed a new member today, his name is Cheney and he's from China! Wow! I'm sure we will have a lot of fun together! Woo, since it was such a hot day today I took my sunglasses with me (they are a little too big though ) and ate water ice, so yummy! ^__^ Love, Twix |
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WingedWolf Posted Jul 2, 2013, 5:58 pm |
Hi mum ^o^
Isidore arrived back home in Germany. He had an amazing time in Japan with cocoaby who was a great host and sent some really sweet presents, too. When he climbed out of his box we all greeted him We thought it'll be a nice idea to cook something to celebrate, so we helped to cut carrots and zucchini ^_^ We also helped to whip some cream for our strawberries, hmm yummy :3 Best wishes, Twix |