dragonfly mareen.haferkamp@emailn.de Posted Oct 1, 2011, 8:18 pm |
Hi!
Im BubbleGum! Im new here, and Im so courios to see the world!! ![]() yesterday I was with my new friends on a playground ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
dragonfly mareen.haferkamp@emailn.de Posted Oct 7, 2011, 8:54 pm |
Yesterday we go to zoo! It was great, but rainy! So we havent see all. I hope we can go again when there is no rain!
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dragonfly mareen.haferkamp@emailn.de Posted Oct 13, 2011, 8:38 pm |
Yesterday we was in a forest!
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Looks like autumn ![]() ![]() ![]() mhhhh...Cookies! ![]() |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 2:49 am |
Hey mum,
I arrived at BlackCats house today ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() I was welcomed really nice of 4 other ToyVoyagers, so I am not alone here ![]() Love, BubbleGum |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 3:01 am |
After I arrived we had to pack our bags and leave to the garage. The car of BlackCats boyfriend got new winter tires and the garage was in an industry part of Essen. So we had a walk while the car was in the garage. It was raining a bit, but that was okay. I hope you like the photos!
![]() The tv tower... ![]() ![]() The school for journalists. ![]() ![]() There is the garage... ![]() And the tv tower again. |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 3:16 am |
Wow....that's a long day, isn't it...3 updates on one day...but okay. After changing the tires we drove to Rheinberg. We wanted to visit a zoo for reptiles. But inside we weren't able to make photos with us...the glass of the terrariums was reflecting too much, so we made some photos of some animals and one in front of the zoo. Hope you'll like them.
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BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 3:34 am |
Today we went into the inland water transportation history museum of Germany. It is in Duisburg. I am sorry, that we won't comment each picture, but BlackCat made 192 photos of toys on that day, so please don't be angry, okay? If you have any questions, you can ask her!
I am so happy that I fulfilled one of my life missions with that visit. Hope you'll like the photos, we made ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() The museum from the outside. After visiting the museum we went over the street in front of it to see inland water transportation live on the Rhine. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:00 am |
Today was the day of a lot Goodbyes.
First we said Goodbye to Sanji, SamSam and Ceryni. ![]() And then to Merembe! ![]() ![]() I really hope they'll have a good travel! |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:22 am |
Today we welcomed another guest here at BlackCats home. SchnuffiVEC was welcomed really warm ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:29 am |
Weather was good today, so we had a walk at the river Ruhr. It wasn't a short walk, but it was nice.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() We found a little chapel on our walk and made some photos with it as well. Hope you like them. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:45 am |
Today I was allowed to go to the wasteyard with BlackCat. They had an accident yesterday (everyone is okay, just the car has some damage things) and we needed to get "new" things for the car. So we went to the wasteyard to get it.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() BlackCat and her boyfriend found all the things they needed for the car, so now it is okay again! |
BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:51 am |
Today we welcomed Vanilla at BlackCats home. It wasn't an easy day for BlackCat as one of her budgies had to go over the rainbow bridge...but he was really ill, so BlackCat deals with it. I hope she will be more happy in the next days so we can go out again. But she already told us that she has a lot prepartions to be done because on Saturday is her birthday. So I guess we will help her with that.
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BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 4:55 am |
Today we welcomed 2 other ToyVoyagers. They were at a host for some months already and BlackCat contacted her through Email and now she has the toys with her. I hope we'll have fun with Luke and Bumba.
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BlackCat Posted Nov 16, 2011, 5:14 am |
Hey,
BlackCat thought that I can use a picture for my profile, so we chosed 2 pictures and made a 100*100 picture out of it. You can choose one and put it in my profile, okay? ![]() Just download it on your computer and upload it in my profile then! Love, BubbleGum ![]() ![]() |
BlackCat Posted Nov 21, 2011, 3:13 pm |
Hey,
today is BlackCats birthday and as she is getting guests, we had to make some muffins to make the guests happy. And we helped her as much as possible with it. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Later that day we helped her with opening some of her presents. She got a lot… ![]() ![]() It was a nice day. I hope we can celebrate more birthdays. |
BlackCat Posted Nov 24, 2011, 11:32 pm |
Hey,
today we went shopping with BlackCat. She got a lot money for her birthday, so she went to a shopping centre with her boyfriend and spend some of the money. The decoration in the shopping centre was really nice, so we made photos of it with us. Hope you'll like the photos! ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() It isn't a big shopping centre, but it was fun to see the decoration. Slowly everyone is getting into Christmas mood here ![]() Love, BubbleGum |
BlackCat Posted Dec 9, 2011, 10:50 pm |
Hey ![]() Today we went into the city centre of Essen to see the big coca cola truck there. BlackCat was all excited as it was the first time she saw it. Hope you'll like the photos. ![]() That was decoration in a shopping centre on our way from the parking lot to the truck. It was made of Christmas tree balls. Crazy, or? ![]() And there he is, the coca cola truck ![]() ![]() There were a lot people, but it was still really nice. Hope you are okay! Love, BubbleGum |
BlackCat Posted Dec 9, 2011, 11:14 pm |
Hey,
Today we went into a shopping centre again. This time we found this nice decoration with bears and other animals. We made some photos to show it to you, hope you’ll like it. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() It was so nice. Love, BubbleGum |
BlackCat Posted Dec 12, 2011, 1:18 am |
Today I left my host. I hope I will have a lot of fun at my new host.
See you soon! BubbleGum |
fleursmum Posted Dec 14, 2011, 6:24 am |
Hi Mum,
I am here!! I could hear voices outside my travel bag - ![]() ![]() I was greeted really nicely by Toto, SchokoCookie, Hasune and Binky. ![]() I am well Mum and have travelled ok, more soon Love Bubblegum |
fleursmum Posted Dec 14, 2011, 6:58 am |
Hi Mum,
Boy have I had a busy day today - I am soooo glad I arrived yesterday because today Sue took all the TV"s to Ballarat to the Ballarat Wildlife Park and I got to meet lots and lots and lots of kangaroos!!!! I have achieved a life mission Mum!!! We will show you some photos!! ![]() ![]() Here I am out the front, ready to go in!! Come on lets go!! ![]() ![]() this is a Tasmanian Devil - they make a really horrible screaming noise and growl at each other, see how it's ear looks red? That is how they got their name, when the sun shines from behind their ears they look red and so they were called devils. Early days people heard them (scarey) and saw just the red ears in the bush (more scarey!!) But where are the kangaroos?? ![]() ![]() Ahh!! Hello!! Ooh the whiskers tickle!! ![]() ![]() this is a western grey kangaroo - hello!! They are very friendly and hope you will feed them when you go up to them. We said hello and then gave them feed on the ground. ![]() ![]() someone had tipped out their whole bag of feed so these guys were too busy eating to say hello. ![]() ![]() This one popped up for a minute, haven't they got beautiful eyelashes? ![]() here is a kangaroo having a scratch and an emu looking over the fence! ![]() ![]() another emu Mum, they have big eyes and are a bit spooky the way they look at you - maybe they think I will be good to eat? I think not!! ![]() Guess what Mum - another kangaroo ![]() ![]() ![]() Binky and I were watching this lizard watching us!! ![]() then we saw a crocodile - ![]() SchokoCookie and I met a koala, it was really soft and would have been nice to cuddle but we weren't allowed to. ![]() ![]() Guess what Mum, a mother and baby kangaroo! ![]() we saw the baby wombat , he is a year old and very curious about the world and who goes to see him. ![]() and here I am on the way home. I am a bit tired after such a big day out, so am off for a sleep now, although there might be some chatting between us TV's, because we have seen lots today! ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Dec 19, 2011, 5:45 am |
Hi Mum,
Tonight I went to the book club meeting and got to share in the Christmas dinner - we had a little read of the book the group read too. ![]() ![]() SchokoCookie and I had some help because the book was a bit big for us!! ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Dec 19, 2011, 5:59 am |
Hi Mum,
Today Sue had to take her son to his work in the city, so we went along but it was all driving, driving and we only got one photo and that was in the car wash - how boring is that?? ![]() ![]() I am well and happy though and looking forward to other adventures Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Dec 19, 2011, 9:30 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we drove to the other side of the city, not a good day for photos though, ![]() we are on the ring road that goes around Melbourne CBD ![]() here we are in the tunnel that goes under the Yarra River ![]() Now we are out the other side and waiting for a train at the level crossing. Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxo |
fleursmum Posted Dec 19, 2011, 9:36 am |
Hi Mum,
Today was an at home day so I can show you a little of where I am ![]() ![]() this is the house I am staying in ![]() this is a bit of the yard ![]() Binky and I got to have a chat with Tupai the chow chow - he was looking out for rabbits, they live in the garden beds and come out to eat the grass. Tupai is a Maori word and means happy. ![]() this is down the back of the block - it is unusual for the dam to have water in it at this time of the year and usually the grass has gone brown and dry but this year there has been loads of rain so everything is growing like mad. Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Dec 25, 2011, 3:29 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we went to the park and took the chow chow for a walk, it was a hot day but we were ok. ![]() here is the old courthouse - it was built in 1851 so is pretty old for Australia - not for Europe though! ![]() ![]() this is the old stables out the back, the police kept their horses here ![]() behind us is the old jail building ![]() this sculpture is near the football oval - it was done by a woman with a chain saw from an old cypress tree ![]() here is the footie oval - lots of blue sky here today Mum ![]() ![]() we crossed the bridge over the creek, the chow chow went in for a drink and a swim - which was quite tempting today!! ![]() ![]() now we are heading off to the old park and walking through the old oak trees - it was very shady and cool ![]() we had a sit under an oak tree while we waited for the chow chow to catch up -he has to sniff everything ![]() Toto looked after me in the long grass!! ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Dec 25, 2011, 4:33 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we went on a big drive across the other side of the city to Sherbrooke. Sue's sister-in-law and family live there. They live on the edge of Sherbrooke forest where there are huge trees and lots of different birds. ![]() here we are driving up the road ![]() in the back yard ![]() we met Hector the goat - he keeps the grass and weeds down in the yard ![]() ![]() here is a big old mountain ash gum tree and little ole me!! ![]() ![]() now you can see me!! I am at the top of the road ![]() interesting things happen here Mum - music and ![]() paintings - Sue's sister-in-law has done some beautiful paintings of the coast ![]() Yum!! a snack for us!! ![]() ![]() The dinner - Yum - turkey, roast veges and greens. Lots of love Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Dec 25, 2011, 4:38 am |
Hi Mum,
Happy Christmas!!! ![]() ![]() Can you see me under the Christmas tree?? ![]() ![]() Toto, Hasune, Binky and SchokoCookie and me say we hope you have a very happy Christmas, love you lots Mum Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Jan 10, 2012, 12:00 am |
Hi Mum,
Here we are ready for Christmas dinner - like my hat?? ![]() ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 10, 2012, 12:10 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we had a walk to Edwards Point, ![]() this is our first view of Swan Bay ![]() this sign was on the walking track and told us about the plants and animals we might see ![]() this is Sue's favourite tree on the walk, it has grown around in a circle ![]() ![]() this sign was near the edge of the salt marsh on Swan bay ![]() now we are coming out towards the beach - lucky Toto was here, he let me sit on his foot otherwise I would have fallen off the sign!! ![]() ![]() we had a little rest on the beach and just enjoyed the view ![]() ![]() we found a tree root on the beach that looked like and elephant, so we pretended to have a ride ![]() ![]() In the afternoon we had a sit in the sun on the back verandah, very pleasant, very relaxing!! Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 10, 2012, 7:32 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we walked in the opposite direction to Edwards Point and headed for the St Leonard's Pier we had a good vantage point from here ![]() this is what we could see ![]() we liked this view but then we got to the pier ![]() was very nice looking over the beach to the pier ![]() In the afternoon we helped Sue with her travelling notebooks ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxo |
fleursmum Posted Jan 10, 2012, 9:15 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we walked back toward Edwards Point ![]() we sat on the bench near the Yacht Club and watched a boat fishing ![]() we sat in the native grass on the way, we were looking out for snakes but Sue told us it was too cold for them to be out and about, but you never know..... ![]() we sat on the big seat at the end of the bush track ![]() quite a good view from here!! ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxoxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Jan 11, 2012, 11:52 pm |
Dear Mum
Today we had a drive to Queenscliffe to have a look around. ![]() We stopped at the main surf beach and watched the ferry go out the heads, it was going to Tasmania ![]() we sat and looked at the beach for a while - the tide was out so there wasn't much surf. ![]() this is one of the lighthouses at Queenscliffe ![]() Next we went to the old fort ![]() ![]() ![]() now we are off to the pier ![]() from the start of the pier you can look back to the fort on the headland ![]() Hey Mum I had a little play in the lighthouse in the playground!! ![]() It was very big for me!! Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxxoo |
fleursmum Posted Jan 11, 2012, 11:57 pm |
Hi Mum,
Happy New Year to you!! ![]() We got ready ![]() we waited, and waited ![]() we saw lots and lots of fireworks, but sadly only one photo came out well ![]() and that was with Binky!! Never mind Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 12:28 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we went to the beach and made a sand castle ![]() it was a great day for the beach ![]() ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 12:32 am |
Beach walk again today Mum
![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 12:43 am |
Beach walk today
![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 12:53 am |
![]() ![]() ![]() we walked out to the end of the pier at St Leonards Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 1:24 am |
![]() we walked along the track today and came out at Edwards Point beach ![]() ![]() ![]() nice view from here ![]() In the afternoon we watched Sue have a swim ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 1:37 am |
![]() we had alot of rain last night and there is still lots of cloud about today ![]() we helped with sewing this afternoon ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 12, 2012, 1:43 am |
Hey Mum an new TV arrived today - her name is Shane and she is from Germany! ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 14, 2012, 12:33 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we drove to Ballarat, we were going to have a walk around the lake and then go look at caravans, but the weather was really bad so we just looked at caravans and then came home. ![]() ![]() In the afternoon we went to pick up David's car and then took the Chow for a walk in a different park ![]() we saw this playground from the car ![]() this slide was very big for me so... ![]() Toto helped me! ![]() ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 14, 2012, 12:37 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we had a look at the lake at the top of Mount Macedon, the reflections are really nice. ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxoooxx |
fleursmum Posted Jan 14, 2012, 12:44 am |
Hi Mum,
Today I said goodbye to everyone here and got ready to travel to my next host, am very excited to see South Africa. ![]() ![]() Love and hugs Bubblegum xxooxx |
Katara Posted Feb 2, 2012, 11:04 am |
Hi Mom!
I arrived in South Africa today! ![]() After the long trip I'm a little tired so I am going to take an afternoon nap. Love you, Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Feb 2, 2012, 7:06 pm |
Tonight for supper we had some Macaroni and Cheese that Katara made for us. It was so nice I had two helpings! ![]() ![]() Afterwards Katara's husband went to buy us some ice-cream. I had a berry flavoured sundae - Yummy! ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 3, 2012, 6:49 pm |
Hi Mom!
Today I explored Katara's balcony. They have an awesome view! ![]() ![]() ![]() We all helped Katara prepare tonight's supper. We had roasted mixed vegetables, chicken and wholewheat couscous. ![]() ![]() xxx Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Feb 5, 2012, 1:43 pm |
Hi Mom!
This morning I went hiking at Groenkloof Nature Reserve with Katara and her husband. I took some pictures along the way: Here some African men are making and selling wooden fencing along the sidewalk. ![]() ![]() We drove past a McDonald's Fast Food Restaurant. ![]() Some road signs that I saw: ![]() ![]() This is the fence of the Nature Reserve. ![]() The big building in the background is the University of South Africa (UNISA). ![]() Moyo is a restaurant that serves traditional and authentic African cuisine. ![]() We arrived at Groenkloof Nature Reserve. ![]() ![]() Katara showed me a map of the park and pointed out which hiking trail we were going to do. ![]() Here I am enjoying the nature and the wonderful scenery. ![]() ![]() ![]() At the stables I met a horse! She told me that her name was "Blacky". ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() We did a 6km hike and there were beautiful wild flowers along the trail ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() I really enjoyed the day! On the way home we stopped for some lunch. We has some chips, fish (hake) and fried calamari rings. I LOVE fish so I was very happy! ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() I had a GREAT day today Mom! I wish you could be here with me! Lots of love, Bubblegum |
Katara Posted Feb 6, 2012, 6:15 pm |
Hi mom!
Today I helped Katara prepare supper. We made a Courgette and Chick-pea salad. First we sliced a red onion and some baby marrow (courgette). ![]() Then we lightly fried it for 3-4 min. ![]() We added some chick-peas and dressed the salad. It was quite tasty! ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 8, 2012, 6:22 pm |
Hi Mom!
Today we all did some sewing! It was much fun! ![]() We are all helping Katara make a birthday present for her sister ![]() First Katara made the legs, then we helped pin some of the pattern pieces. ![]() I helped Katara cut out the 'arms' ![]() Then we watched while Katara sewed the pieces together. ![]() Birthday present in progress. ![]() Then for supper we had Spaghetti Bolognaise. Katara made it with ostrich mince. ![]() ![]() Open wide! ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 9, 2012, 6:23 pm |
Hi Mom!
I am enjoying my stay in Pretoria - I'm getting to taste many delicious foods! Today I tried some mince samoosas, with dipping sauce that Katara bought for us. The one sauce was quite mild and sweet and the second sauce was very HOT! I tried it, but it was too burny for me... ![]() Tonight we watched "The State of the Nation Address" on television. I saw Mr Jacob Zuma - the South African president. ![]() ![]() Just now I will go to bed - at least it is a bit cooler tonight ![]() Good night mom! I asked Katara how to say "Sleep well" in Afrikaans. She says I must say "Lekker slaap". |
Katara Posted Feb 12, 2012, 5:12 pm |
Hi mom,
Today it is raining... ![]() We spent the morning helping Katara to finish the doll for her sister's birthday. We are very proud because the doll looks beautiful! ![]() ![]() In the afternoon we told Katara that we wanted to bake a cake. Me, Hase, Marty and Bubblegum found a recipe in one of Katara's cookbook's. ![]() We creamed the eggs and castor sugar ![]() ![]() I sifted some flour ![]() Here the cake is ready to go into the oven ![]() Katara helped me to taste some of the batter - It tasted delicious! ![]() Then we put the cake into the oven. After a whilst Katara checked the cake - she said something wasn't right... We discovered we never put the butter/margarine into the batter, so the cake was a big disaster... ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 14, 2012, 11:32 am |
Hi mom!
Today we went to the Centurion Mall We took some photos along the way. We drove past the Irene Village Mall ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() We arrived at the Mall ![]() ![]() ![]() Inside the Mall ![]() ![]() We also visited a bookstore ![]() I had a great day! Lots of love, Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Feb 15, 2012, 8:08 am |
Today we went to Rosebank. Rosebank is a suburb in Johannesburg.
We arrived at mall. The older section of the mall is called "The Mall of Rosebank" and the newer section is called "The Zone @ Rosebank" ![]() At the mall: ![]() ![]() Sweetie, Hase and I had some fun too! ![]() ![]() ![]() We also visited the Rosebank Rooftop Market: ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() I had a great time! In the afternoon Katara gave Hase, Marty and Sweetie a little farewell tea. We ate some Cinnabons - it was very nice! ![]() I am a little sad to see them leave because for now I am the only ToyVoyager visiting Katara... Luckily Katara has other Toys to keep me company ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 19, 2012, 2:22 pm |
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY MOM!
![]() Today I helped Katara bake some cupcakes for her husband. I had a lot of fun in the kitchen! ![]() First we gathered all the ingredients ![]() We creamed the margarine and castor sugar (This time Katara remembered to add the butter/margarine) ![]() I sifted in the flour ![]() We added some red food colouring in the batter ![]() We put the batter into cupcake liners in a muffin tin ![]() and placed the tin into the oven ![]() Then we took the cupcakes out and we allowed it to cool. We decorated the cupcakes. All finished and ready to eat! ![]() ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 19, 2012, 2:34 pm |
Hi mom!
Today I went to the driving range with Katara's husband. It was great fun! ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Katara Posted Feb 26, 2012, 6:13 pm |
Hi mom!
Today Katara went to visit her sister. Her sister has a garden so I played outside a bit. I asked Katara to take some photos of the nice flowers! ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() The hibiscus flower was my favourite! ![]() For lunch we went to a restaurant inside Greenstone Shopping Centre ![]() We decided to order their lunch special ![]() ![]() ![]() Afterwards we quickly went to the post office ![]() ![]() I also posed for a photo in a SMART car ![]() I had a great day! Lots of love, Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Feb 29, 2012, 5:08 pm |
Hi Mom!
We didn't do too much today - we had a real lazy day. Katara didn't feel like making supper so we got some Chinese take-away instead. I must admit that the food was very tasty!! ![]() ![]() I really enjoyed the bow-tie too!! ![]() I am missing you Mom so I'm sending you lots of hugs and kisses! xoxoxox Bubblegum |
Katara Posted Mar 7, 2012, 3:23 pm |
Hi mom
Today Froggy arrived in Pretoria, South Africa. I helped him out of the stuffy enveloped and welcomed him with a hearty 'Guten Tag!' I am very excited to have a comrade! He shared the chocolates he brought with, with me. ![]() ![]() Miss you much, Bubblegum |
Katara Posted Mar 9, 2012, 7:38 pm |
Hi Mom,
Today Katara taught me and Froggy how to make a traditional South African dish called 'Melkkos'. Directly translated it means 'milk food'. It can be eaten for breakfast or a light lunch. First we heated three cups of milk in a pot on the stove. ![]() In a separate bowl we rubbed one cup of flour and 20ml of butter/margarine using our fingers. We also added a pinch of salt. ![]() As soon as the milk lightly started boiling, we added the butter and flour mixture. The mixture was lumpy, but Katara said that it was supposed to be that way. We let the mixture simmer for about 15 mins, and we stirred it often. ![]() After 15 mins, it was ready to be served. All it needed was a generous sprinkling of cinnamon sugar. YUMMY! ![]() |
Katara Posted Mar 12, 2012, 7:24 pm |
Hi mom,
Today we attended a birthday party of one of Katara's friends and Froggy and I had a great time! ![]() ![]() We drank some shooters called 'Melktertjies' (A half a bottle of Vodka, 1 tin of Ideal milk and 1 tin of condensed milk all mixed together and served chilled in shooter glasses with a sprinkling of cinnamon on top). It tastes like Melktert (Milk Tart) which is a traditional tart of Dutch origin and very popular in South Africa. ![]() In the evening we ate some "Potjiekos" made in a Dutch Oven over a coal fire. It was like a stew/casserole with meat and vegetables. We ate it together with some rice. ![]() I really enjoyed it! Greetings from South Africa, Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Mar 13, 2012, 11:41 am |
Hi Mom!
Today Froggy and I helped Katara prepare a "koekstruif" (trifle). Katara bought a Swiss roll. We cut it into slices and we lined the glass bowl with the cake ![]() Katara then poured some Old Brown Sherry over the cake, and allowed it to draw into the cake. ![]() Next we added a layer of custard, jelly and cream ![]() We added another layer of cake and custard. Katara added some strawberry jelly which she prepared with strawberry pieces the night before ![]() ![]() Katara topped off the 'koekstruif' with a layer of cream ![]() We ate the 'koekstruif' for dessert - It was delicious! |
Katara Posted Mar 16, 2012, 6:01 pm |
Hi Mom,
Yesterday and today it has been raining... ![]() So we decided to surf the Internet. We found a site that we really liked! It's full of crafts and tutorials ![]() We saw a tutorial on how to make an Easter Bunny and we asked Katara if we could make it. ![]() We chose some material from Katara's stash ![]() We pinned the pattern pieces to the material ![]() ![]() and sewed them together with the sewing machine ![]() Our creation! A big Easter Bunny and a small one! ![]() ![]() Afterwards for a snack we shared a grenadilla. It was yum! ![]() |
Katara Posted Mar 17, 2012, 6:55 pm |
Hi Mom,
Today the weather cleared, so we had sunshine! ![]() In the morning we went to the community library ![]() ![]() ![]() Then we went to the shops. I met some chocolate Easter Bunnies! ![]() ![]() And of course we spent some time at the sweet isle! ![]() It was a fun outing! Greetings from South Africa, Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Mar 18, 2012, 6:49 pm |
PART 1
Hi Mom Today we went to the Irene Dairy. The Irene Dairy Farm is a picturesque gem that nestles between the sprawling cities of Pretoria and Johannesburg. A visit to this old-style, storybook dairy farm is a must. Started in 1895, the Irene Farm has been run the whole time by the van der Byl family who are now on to five generations and has become an iconic landmark in the Gauteng countryside. To read more you can click on THIS LINK ![]() This is the Dairy Farm Shop ![]() Outside there is a lovely fountain. You can toss coins into it - all the coins are donated to the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) ![]() Some old farm equipment ![]() Froggy and I tried to tell the time on the sun-dial, but unfortunately it was a little cloudy... ![]() ![]() |
Katara Posted Mar 19, 2012, 10:44 am |
PART 2: We continued to explore Irene Dairy Farm There are troughs all around the farm which provides drinking water for the animals ![]() There are also several ponds at the farm ![]() We met some calves - This one tried to kiss us! ![]() And this one was quite curious! ![]() Here is the building were all the calves are kept ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Katara Posted Mar 21, 2012, 6:10 pm |
PART 3:
![]() ![]() ![]() We had some lunch at "The Barn" at the Dairy. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() I had a great day!! ![]() Lots of hugs, Bubblegum |
Katara Posted Mar 24, 2012, 3:22 pm |
Hi Mom,
Today we went to the Centurion Mall again, but this time to have some waffles! We went to the "Milky Lane"- It's an ice-cream bar, and we ordered some waffles. It was delicious!! ![]() ![]() ![]() The waitress brought some syrups to our table, but as the waffles we ordered were already very sweet we didn't use the syrups. ![]() ![]() ![]() At the mall there were some Easter decorations hanging from the trees. It looked so pretty! I'm not sure that the photos do it justice. ![]() ![]() I had a great day! Greetings from Pretoria, Bubblegum xx |
Katara Posted Apr 5, 2012, 4:56 pm |
Hi Mom,
Today we went to visit Katara's sister in Greenstone. We went for a stroll in the residential estate that they reside in. We saw some big newly-built houses. ![]() Seeing that I spent a lot of time in peoples' mailboxes - being a ToyVoyager, I quite liked the look of this particular one! It isn't old at all although it looks quite old ![]() ![]() Froggy and I spotted a play park, and of course begged Katara to take us there to have a little bit of fun! ![]() ![]() From the play park we had a beautiful view of Modderfontein. Home of the Dynamite Factory. (You can see Kelvin power station in the background). ![]() "Modderfontein Dynamite Factory was established in 1894 on a site in the rolling hills northeast of Johannesburg, covering several thousand acres.Today it is the biggest dynamite factory in the world. It was established principally to supply the emerging gold mines of the Witwatersrand with much needed explosives which were required to reach the newly discovered main reef at ever deeper levels." You can read more about it here Just scroll down to "A brief history of Modderfontein" Froggy and I tried to make friends with the birds, but unfortunately no one was home. Perhaps next time! ![]() After the looooong walk we were very tired, so we stopped to rest ![]() I had a great day!!! ![]() |
Katara Posted Apr 6, 2012, 5:52 pm |
Hi Mom,
Yesterday another ToyVoyager from Germany arrived. His name is Phog. This is his first adventure as a TV. ![]() We helped him out of the dark envelope ![]() and he was very happy to meet 2 fellow German TV's! ![]() Today we had a nice relaxing day at home. For lunch we made a 'braai' (bbq) First I got to taste a South African beer and an alcoholic cooler ![]() We got everything ready. Katara made us some garlic buns and placed them in foil. ![]() Katara also bought some "Boerewors". It is very popular in South Africa, and no one makes a "braai" without some "Boerewors" ![]() ![]() We braaied the meat and then the feast was ready!! ![]() Love you lots Mommy! xoxoxox |
Katara Posted Apr 11, 2012, 5:32 pm |
HAPPY EASTER!!
Today the Easter Bunny brought us some Easter Eggs! ![]() ![]() |
Katara Posted Apr 11, 2012, 5:42 pm |
Hi Mom!
Today I got to taste some "Koeksisters". From wikipedia: "A koeksister or koesister comes from the Dutch word koekje, which translates to "cookie". It is a South African syrup-coated doughnut in a twisted or braided shape (like a plait). It is prepared by deep-frying dough in oil, then dipping the fried dough into cold sugar syrup. Koeksisters are very sticky and sweet and taste like honey.[1]" ![]() ![]() The 'koeksisters' are very very sweet! ![]() Tomorrow Katara said that I will continue on with my travels. I'm looking forward to it! Bon Voyage! Bubblegum xxx |
Katara Posted Apr 17, 2012, 5:45 pm |
Hi mom!
There has been a slight delay, but I'm off to America today! ![]() I greeted Phog ![]() and Froggy ![]() and they helped me into the envelope! ![]() ![]() I'm looking forward to a new adventure! I love you lots Mommy! xoxoxox Bubblegum |
lazyfairy Posted May 1, 2012, 1:23 am |
Today I arrived in the USA! I'm so excited to be here!
I was greeted by Peep, another TV. She made a sign for me! I get to stay in the zoo room! The bed is a bit big for me, but it is good for jumping! I hope to have lots of pictures to put up very soon! Missing you! ~BubbleGum |
lazyfairy Posted May 10, 2012, 1:47 am |
Hi!
Today we took a walk in the forest. This is the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge. It is so green here! We didn't just come to see the trees, we came to see the river as well. It was a long walk down the pier. This is the Minnesota River. After all the rain I've seen here, it was very nice to relax in the sun! I tagged the location of this post with the location of the pier. If you zoom in on satellite view, you can see it for yourself. Bye! Bubblegum |
lazyfairy Posted May 22, 2012, 12:56 am |
Road trip today! Our first stop was in Prescott, Wisconsin. Here we visited the river. This is where the St. Croix River meets the Mississippi River. Watching all the boats was so much fun! Here I am with my friends Peep and Charly_Palmero.
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lazyfairy Posted May 22, 2012, 1:16 am |
Our next stop was in Red Wing, Minnesota. Red Wing is famous for its shoe factory where they make Red Wing Shoes. We didn't go to the factory. We took a walk downtown.
I found a giant shoe! Hopefully the giant doesn't come back for it! I found a very interesting shop. I think I like the word "uffda" Check out this church! It looks like a castle! I really wish this picture wasn't so fuzzy. I think someone is going to have to teach Lazyfairy how to use her camera. I love this funny statue! Best Wishes! BubbleGum |
lazyfairy Posted May 28, 2012, 4:34 pm |
Hi!
Today in America it is Memorial Day! It is a day to honor and remember fallen soldiers. We spent the day playing outside in the yard. I tried to play Badminton, but someone needs to mow the grass. It's like a jungle down here! I decided to climb a tree instead. From here I can see everything! Time for a picnic with my friends. Blue Bunny shared his Blue Bunny Ice Cream with us. We had Turtle Sundae. Don't worry, there isn't really turtles in it, I checked. BubbleGum |
lazyfairy Posted Jun 3, 2012, 3:45 pm |
Hi!
Today Luisa, BlueBunny and I played a fun card game called Kittens in a Blender. It looks like a fun game, as long as we don't have to put real kittens in a real blender. I like kittens! The green kittens are mine. I have to get them all safe in the box and keep them out of the blender. The other color kittens can go to the blender, but not mine! BlueBunny blended the kittens, but mine was safe on the counter! I blended one kitten, but I saved two of mine! They were in the box, and now they are safe forever! I won the game! Not one of my kittens got blended! Luisa and BlueBunny are congratulating me. It was a good game! Note: no kittens were harmed in the making of this post! Bye! BubbleGum |
lazyfairy Posted Jun 20, 2012, 8:15 pm |
Hi!
Today we took a walk on Grand Ave in St Paul. It was so nice to stretch my little legs out! I found a very famous dog, Snoopy. Here in Minnesota, you can find lots of Snoopy Statues, as well as other characters from Peanuts Comic Strip. For about 4 years, many artists were chosen to decorate a statue, and they are displayed all over the Twin Cities. It's called Peanuts on Parade. This one is in front of a Veterinary Clinic. Check out the interesting flowers outside this old building. I also really like the colorful windows. After our walk, we took a drive home, but got a little lost on the way. We found ourselves much closer to downtown that we expected to be. Look at that skyscraper! |
lazyfairy Posted Jun 20, 2012, 8:42 pm |
Since today is my last day here in America, I decided I wanted to visit the Mall of America. This place is HUGE! So big that they have an amusement park right in the middle of the mall! The park is called Nickelodeon Universe. So much fun!
Underneath the mall is a giant aquarium with lots of tropical fish, sharks, and turtles. The Rainforest Cafe looked very cool. In the restaurant, they have lots of animal statues. Every 30 minutes, they shut off the lights and have a thunderstorm and the apes go crazy! Before we left, I sat down and said bye to my new friends. This is a model of the bench from the movie Forrest Gump. My friends were sad to say goodbye, but happy that I will have lots of new adventures. Now I am off to Germany. Being a bear, I will just hibernate until I get there. Hope it doesn't take too long! BubbleGum |
Noisy Posted Jul 20, 2012, 9:42 am |
Hey Mom!
just a short note, that I have landed! It was a looooong trip, now I have to relaxe a little bit! Love you, miss you! BubbleGum |
fam-united Posted Apr 19, 2014, 9:55 am |
Hi Mum,
you might be surprised to read my message from Bruchsal again. I arrived here after a long stay at my last host's place. She had a tough time and now she had the chance to send me on. Be prepared for some more updates Bye, BubbleGum |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 10:40 am |
The weather is terrible. Right now we have a bad thunderstorm. Do you see the scaffolding? The house will have a new colour soon - we all hope so. |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 10:44 am |
Today we visited my host's sister and her sons. They have chickens, ducks and more little animals. |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 1:28 pm |
We are on a short trip to Blaustein. Blaustein is a town in the district of Alb-Donau Baden-Württemberg in Germany. It is situated on the Blau River, 6 km west of Ulm and has about 15,000 inhabitants. |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 1:56 pm |
The next day the weather was rather nice again. So we decided to go for a walk and take photos on this little rock, which you've seen on the photo yesterday. When you stand on top of it, you have a nice view over the landscape. |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 3:42 pm |
I love that rainbow ![]() |
fam-united Posted Feb 20, 2015, 6:21 pm |
There will be a big event in this family this year: the wedding of one of the sons. Petra is happy, that she is allowed to bake the wedding cake. It will be a cake with strawberries and maybe some marzipan. She still doesn't know the other ingredients, so she has to try some cakes and find out the best version. And of course we are part of this.
Here's the first cake - I can't remember the ingredients anymore, I'm sorry. ![]() |