Ravyna Posted Jul 21, 2012, 5:32 pm |
Hello everybody!
My name is Lotta; I’m a little brown sheep from Germany. I grew up in the little village, my mum lives in. It’s real countryside and I think, I’m too young to spend my whole life here. When I heard of Toy Voyagers, I started to dream about becoming one myself and after a few weeks I persuaded my mum. I hope I’ll have some big adventures. World here I’m coming! |
Ravyna Posted Jul 22, 2012, 2:16 pm |
Today my mum took some nice pictures of me, to show possible hosts how cute I am.
I’m a vegetarian and you can see, I really like grass and flowers, like most sheep, I think. I’m wearing now a ToyVoyager-Tag with my name and my ID-number. My mum and I made it yesterday in the evening, I tried to help her a little bit, but it was kind of difficult with my little legs… She says that with the tag I have a chance to come back to her, if I get lost some day, but I hope this will never happen! We made pictures of this too. I’m very proud to wear such a Tag now! |
Ravyna Posted Jul 24, 2012, 7:52 pm |
Yesterday we were at my mum’s grandma, because it was her birthday. I ate a piece of cake, which was yummy.
Later, I was sitting on the terrace, reading an exciting crime thriller until my mum’s brother asked me to come with him, going skateboarding and riding his bike. It was very funny with him and his friends. Today it was too hot to do anything, so we spend the whole afternoon in the garden. On the last picture you can see the cat Emmi and me relaxing in the shadow. |
Ravyna Posted Jul 25, 2012, 6:02 pm |
A few hours ago, my mum told me, my journey will start tomorrow. I’m going to travel to Finland and visit sirkku-susanna! I’m really happy and looking forward to it.
My mum has already spent her holidays in Finland and she showed me, where on the map it is and where Susanna lives. She said it’s a beautiful country and she is sure, that I’ll have a good time there. |
Ravyna Posted Jul 26, 2012, 1:32 pm |
Today I said good-bye to my sheep family and my mum. I’ll really miss them, but I had no time to be sad. Then I went into the “travel-bag”.
I’m so excited, in a few days I’ll already be in Lahti. I hope I’ll meet some other Toy Voyagers and find new friends. Bye-bye Germany. |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Aug 13, 2012, 7:34 pm |
Hi Mom!
I have been here in Lahti Finland for a while, but my host has been very busy at work, so here comes my first update. But don’t worry Mom, I have had nice company here, two funny fellows The Wotwots and our “real” host Droopy the Dog. My host started her summer holiday, and first thing she wanted to do, was go to forest and pick some blueberries, and maybe mushrooms too. Mom, did you know, that here in Finland you can pick berries from any forest you want (not from anyone’s garden of course), but from forest, no matter who owns it. This right is called “every man’s right”. There was very nice and quiet in forest, and we found lots of blueberries (but no mushrooms). I myself prefer blueberry leafs. I also tasted heathers and lichen. Reindeers eat that in Lapland, I think it was kind of dry. We shared candies, I brought with me. And at evening we had blueberry pie with vanilla sauce. Yummy! Kisses Mom! Lotta |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Aug 30, 2012, 6:02 pm |
Hi Mom!
I have now spent two week holiday with our host and the WotWots of course. We didn’t do anything special. We just slept long, ate well, read and relaxed. And of course we took long slow walks almost every day, it was nice. Here are some pictures of our walks. As you might see fall is coming, trees are chancing color. Actually fall is our host’s favorite season, it’s not too hot and nature is beautiful. I think I like it too Mom. Sunday we are going to harvest market. We just hope it won’t rain. Keep your fingers crossed Mom. Take Care! Lotta |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Sep 28, 2012, 6:40 pm |
Hi Mom!
Last Sunday we all went to harvest market at Lahti market square as our host promised. It was quite cold and raining, as it usually does nowadays. Market was bit a disappointment. Only few booths, and nothing to buy. But we saw couple of interesting things. At first picture you see me with soup canon. They are used by Finnish army. Lots and lots of soup there Mom. And then we saw “maakellari” groundcellar. At old times people dig them under ground to keep food cold. At top of them there were plants growing, they were like little hills. Now you can buy groundcellar from market, as you can see. Grass up there looked quite taste, but I’m too small to climb there. Love you Mom! Lotta |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Sep 28, 2012, 6:47 pm |
Hello there at home!
Last weekend we went to Seinäjoki with our host. She goes there to study once a month. We were really busy, but still have time for few photos. At first picture you can see the most known landmark of Seinäjoki. Church called Lakeuden risti. And then me at our hotel. We spent most of our time in our host’s bag, but on our way back here, we have a chance to see landscapes from train window; Forests and fields mostly. And then it started to rain again….But I also saw some beautiful old (sadly to say abandoned) railway stations. Take Care Mom! Lotta |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Sep 28, 2012, 6:54 pm |
Hi Mommy!
We have new family member here. And he has been keeping our host busy. This little fellow is called Viljami. And Mom he is quite a handful. Our host’s old cat Veskari is not very pleased with this newcomer. It’s raining and raining. Our host promise, that we go “tree watching” as soon as weather is getting better. Trees have so beautiful colors now. Hope the sun shines soon. Kisses Mom! Lotta |
sirkku-susanna sirkku-susanna@suomi24.fi Posted Nov 11, 2012, 5:44 pm |
Hi Mommy!
When you are reading this, I’m already on my way to my next host. But here is my last update from Lahti Finland. I have a change to visit my host’s workplace at Lahti Music Library. They have thousands of cd’s there, almost 50 000 to be exact. Even German music. Also lots of sheet music and books about singers, composers and bands. They also have two sound proof rooms with pianos. I would love to learn to play piano. On our way back home we took picture of colorful trees, and one big mushroom. Autumn is beautiful here in Finland (when it’s not raining) don’t you think Mom? Now I’m going somewhere very different. Love you a lot Mom! Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Nov 14, 2012, 12:07 pm |
Hello Mom......
Today, iam arrived in Bali.......its a long journey from Finland to Indonesia. My friends from Indonesia, Bima the tiger, Sena the sheep, and Bisma the Lion welcomed me. Also SchokoCookie and Konrad, the TV, that stay here in Indonesia, just like me. Here Mom, my welcomed little party, you can see traditional Balinese textile in the background And now iam ready for my journey in tropical country and exotic island Bali-Indonesia Hugs Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Nov 15, 2012, 12:53 pm |
Dear Mom,
My first journey was visiting Sanur Beach. Sanur beach tourism object belong to Sanur Village is a popular tourism destination in Bali. Located in Denpasar region, Denpasar city, capital city of Bali island. For precisely on the east of Denpasar, about 6 km. in some picture you can see " Canang Sari " ( including in picture we sunbathing in white sands ). Canang Sari is a small offering of flowers and/or money placed on a tiny square tray woven out of coconut leaf/banana leaf. "Canang" refers to the tray, while "sari" refers to the "essence" of the offering which may be a small amount of money placed on top. Canang sari are offered every morning by devout Balinese to show gratitude to the creator (Sang Hyang Widi Wasa ) |
Linda Fdph Posted Nov 20, 2012, 5:30 am |
Dear Mom
Here iam in East Java, in the village called Kembangsore , to visit my host parents. I feel athmosphere of village complete with rice field, fresh air, tropical fruit tree ( banana fruit, papaya fruit, fresh guava fruit and mushroom ) Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Nov 27, 2012, 3:44 am |
Dear Mom,
Today before my host come back to Bali, she take me around her parent's home, to show about how green Pacet village. The mountain in the background called Welirang Mountain. Pacet is village with the main job of the citizens is farmer. You can see the rice field here, and people here prepare for planting the paddies. And at least, iam and Konrad n SchokoCookie take a picture with delicious tropical fruit called Mango and Matoa Hugs Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Dec 1, 2012, 11:10 pm |
Dear Mum
Iam visited Bajra Sandhi, a Monument to the Memory of Balinese Struggle. The monument is located in Niti Mandala, Renon, Denpasar, an area where most of the government offices are located. The architecture of the monument is very unique, taking the shape of Bajra or Genta, a bell that used by Hindu Priests during religious ceremonies. It is also a symbol of the bond between males and females that creates prosperity according to the epic that tells the story of the Gods struggle to get the Water of Eternity. Every statue and each carving in the monument compound has its own meaning. The whole of the monument symbolizes Mount Mandara where, according to the epic Mahabarath, the Gods had a battle with giants fighting for the Water of Eternity Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Dec 11, 2012, 1:08 am |
Hello........
Here iam in one of Museum in Bali, called Le Mayeur Museum. Museum Le Mayeur can be found straight on the beach between Jalan Hang Tuah and Inna Grand Bali Beach hotel, one of the largest hotels in Sanur. The museum used to be the former house of the Belgium painter Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres who arrived in Bali in the 1930’s. First he settled in the little village of Klandis, east of Denpasar where he met the famous legong dancer and local beauty, Ni Polok, when she was 15 years old. She agreed to model for his paintings and lots of the paintings you see today in Museum Le Mayeur feature Ni Polok. The house is set in a garden with beautiful frangipani flowers, Balinese statues and palm trees. Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Dec 16, 2012, 12:08 am |
Dear Mom
iam in Inna Grand Bali Beach, one of old hotel here in Bali, located near Sanur Beach. The hotel have many historical background and also the tallest Hotel in Bali Here some a picture that was taken in thoose hotel love you Mom L |
Linda Fdph Posted Dec 24, 2012, 2:07 am |
Dear Mum
iam spending my time in Sanur area, enjoyed the street food, the white sand and the hot weather there Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Jan 1, 2013, 10:57 am |
Dear Mum
Here is my picture with the taste of Indonesia Love L |
Linda Fdph Posted Jan 13, 2013, 2:41 am |
Dear Mum
Yesterday, Linda and me with Konrad, SchookoCookie, Kioko, Biba and Bima-Sena, visited one of the historical sites, near Linda's parents home. The site, called Candi Cungkup ( Cungkup Temple ), one of Majapahit kingdom ruins ( 1300-1500 AC) The road to the sites is quite difficult. No official road, only soil street, and we must went through the 3 rivers without brigdes ( Linda got wet, and Gefi ( 123 cm height) also wet because the height of the water, almost until his stomach ). But even its difficult we also can enjoy the stunning ricefield around us. The Cungkup its self still become a big question for archeologist. Some opinion said its a cremation purpose for Prince escort Kertawardhana, husband of the Great Queen of Majapahit, Queen Tribhuwana Tunggadewi. But the fact now, this site need more maintenance. Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Jan 18, 2013, 10:14 am |
Dear Mum
As soon i will leave Indonesia Here some picture when I visit East Java and also when I in Bali Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Jan 19, 2013, 11:24 pm |
Dear Mum
When i was in East Java, Linda's Mom show me and Konrad ( Konrad and I come from same city in Germany , and now stay together in Indonesia ) how to make popular sweet dessert from Indonesia, called "Kolak". The ingredient is Banana, Sweet Potatoes, Jack Fruit , Pandan Leaf and Durian fruit, also Coconut Milk , sugar and little bit salt. Love Lotta |
Linda Fdph Posted Jan 21, 2013, 8:07 am |
Now, almost 2 months iam spending my journey in Indonesia ( East Java and Bali ) so, its time to continue my new journey to another country.
Linda, take our all the TVs that stay with her to Sindhu Beach for my farewell party. We had the party in the white sand beach and blue water. My friends here from aboard, Konrad, SchookoCookie, Ferdi Fuch, Hans Gunther, Capote, Kruppchen, Biba, Walt and Kioko said they are all will miss me. My friends from Indonesia Bima and Sena said Bon Voyage, wish me get another amazing journey as soon. Konrad, TV that come from same city with me, take a picture with me personally, only with me, make a moment that we have same journey when in Indonesia. Finally, Linda hug and kissed me, and said Good Luck, and that she will miss me, and wishing all the best for me So, Byeee Indonesia....Bye Bali...Bye all the TVs that still stay in Indonesia , Bye Linda and Bye..Bima and Sena. Wish u all the best too Hugs Lotta |
charteuxheart Posted Mar 10, 2013, 1:43 pm |
Hi mom
I just arrived to Vietnam today. My new friends Ceryni the turtle, Zoey the zebra and Prajna the parrot give me a hug. They are just like me, they are from difference country from all over the world, they come here to explore Vietnam. Can't wait for my first journey in Vietnam. Love Lotta |
charteuxheart Posted Apr 5, 2013, 1:41 pm |
Hi mom
The weather today is very hot, very very hot! It's 37oC ! Then we decide to make homemade ice cream. Yum! It's passion fruit flavor. We love it so much. Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted May 14, 2013, 4:07 pm |
Hi mom!
After one week of hot temperatures, it finally rained in Saigon. ^^ The weather is much better now Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted May 18, 2013, 5:46 pm |
Hi mom!
Yesterday, we went by train to Huế. We arrived in the evening today. It's such a long way. I'm pretty tired but I'm so exited to visit Huế The landscapes ouside are amazing. Can you see the train? Finally, we are here, at Huế. We take a rest in hotel and go out for dinner. For dinner we try the speciality of Huế. Bánh bèo - Vietnamese savory steamed rice cake, it's filled with savory ingredients including chopped dried or fresh shrimp, scallions, mung bean paste, crispy fried shallots and fish sauce. Bánh bột lọc - Vietnamese clear shrimp & pork dumpling, it is wrapped and steamed in banana leaf. It’s chewy and delicious. Bánh ram ít - Vietnamese sticky dumplings, it’s also chewy and sticky. Bánh nậm, I don’t know what’s this called in English but it’s also made with rice flour, fresh shrimp and meat. Chả tôm – Shrimp cake. All of them are ate with fish sauce. After that, we go to Hương River and listen to Huế's music. They are practice before the show. They are wearing Áo dài, Vietnamese traditional cloth. I wish that you could listen the music, it's amazing!! Then we go around the city and get back to the hotel. Lotta |
charteuxheart Posted May 26, 2013, 3:14 pm |
Hi mom
Today, from Hue, we go to Quang Tri for visit the Church of Our Lady of La Vang. Church of Our Lady of La Vang, built in 1928 and destroyed in 1972 during the war. This is how it look like in September, 1967. Then, we visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. I'm so excited!!! It is a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Quảng Bình province. There is a cave which is one of the longest and biggest cave in the world. We are on the way to Phong Nha Cave, this the Son River in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park The mouth of Phong Nha cave with underground river Inside of the cave, some places are very dark, it's really difficult for host mom to taking picture. Can you see that? It's sparkle! After that we come back to the hotel to take a rest cause there is a long journey tomorrow Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted May 26, 2013, 4:54 pm |
Hi mom!
We will visit Tomp of Khai Dinh and Tomp of Tu Duc today. Tu Duc and Khai Dinh are the Emperors of Vietnam. The Tomb of Khải Định is located in Chau Chu mountain near Hue in Vietnam. It was built for the Nguyen Emperor Khải Định. It was built from 1920 to 1931 taking 11 years to complete. The tomb is a blend of Western and Eastern architecture. It is located on a steep hill. Most of the things inside the Tomp are made out of ceramic and real gold. This is Khai Dinh. The landscape here are amazing, it's one of the reason why Khai Dinh choose this place to built his Tomp. It's time to visit the Tomp of Tu Duc. Tomb of Tự Đức is located in Hue, Vietnam. It is built for the Nguyen Emperor Tự Đức and took three years to build from 1864–1867. It is divided into a Temple Area and a Tomb Area. In the evening, we take a bus and go to Hoi An, we will stay here for one night. Goodbye Hue!! Finally we arrived to Hoi An At night, we go to have some beer These lanterns are like the specialty in Hoi An. They are everywhere. Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted Jun 4, 2013, 4:37 pm |
Hi mom!
This morning, we are on the way to Mỹ Sơn Holy Land. It is situated in an august mighty valley complex. The Holy Land with more than 70 tower-temple architectural structures of Cham Pa civilization retaining historical, cultural, architectural and artistic values from 9 centuries’ time (from 4th – 18th century), is regarded as monumental as other renowned relics in the region of South East Asia such as Angkor, Pagan, Borobudur. Time and the wars have severely impaired the relic. Still, the remainder in My Son play a critically important part in world historic architectural heritage. As the cultural heritage’s globally prominent values need to be protected for the sake of human beings, My Son relic complex was entered in the UNESCO’s register as the World Cultural Heritage on December 4th 1999 in the city of Marrkesk, the Republic of Marocco. After visiting the My Son Holy Land, we are on the way to Da Nang. In the night, I'm so excited cause there is a firework competition. <3 A lot of people come to watch it. Today is the first day of the competition, it will ends tomorrow, we will comeback then. Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted Jun 5, 2013, 7:08 am |
Hi mom!
Today is a very special day! Today is the Liberation of Saigon (30/4/1975 - 30/4/2013), it's the end of the Vietnamese War. It has a very special meaning to every Vietnamese people. The firework competition is continuing today. But today we found a better place to watch. It's the last day we are in Da Nang, we'll come back home in Ho Chi Minh City tomorrow, how sadd Miss you Lotta <3 |
charteuxheart Posted Jun 5, 2013, 7:36 am |
Hi mom!
Before going home, we decided to go to the beach. It's rainy a little bit, but it can stop us to have fun This is a very special type of boat in Vietnam, it's called thuyền thúng It's time to going home, I have such a great time here <3 Love Lotta <3 |
cocoaby Posted Jun 20, 2013, 7:36 am |
White Owl delivered big envelope.
It is written as "Lotta and Prajna" in the envelope from Vietnam. Toys is looking forward to seeing new guest. Little yellow mushrooms said "I feel my heart beating". Prajna and Lotta was greeted with "Hello". Host toys said "welcome". Prajna and Lotta and Meomie did a lot of talk about Vietnam. And... yellow frog Houjicha said "By the way, It's the rainy season(called Tsuyu) in Japan." The rainy season, Tsuyu, lasts from the beginning of June to mid-July in mainland Japan. The literal meaning of "Tsuyu" is "plum rain". It is called so because plums ripen in the same time of the year. Many people hate this season because of the high temperature and extreme humidity "Tsuyu" brings in Japan. We have plan to adventure if sunny weekend. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 22, 2013, 12:38 pm |
We went to Jogashima park in Miura.
It was hot day. The sea was very beautiful. I saw a cat where live in Jogashima park. I said "Hello! Would you be become my good friend ." The cat was very shy. There is two lighthouse in Jogashima park. I went to the Awazaki lighthouse. Also I was able to see fish and shell, hermit crabs and crab. Hydrangea is beautiful in Japan now. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 22, 2013, 10:50 pm |
20 minute get on the train, we arrived in Tobe station.
There is Sugiyama shrine here. There are Komainu(means guardian dogs) and Komanezumi(guardian mouse) and Daikokuten(means god of wealth) in Sugiyama shrine. You can see Ema(votive picture) of snake year(2013). We could relax in shrine. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 23, 2013, 7:18 am |
We also get on train, went to the Minatomirai 21.
I saw golden statue, blue art, some beautiful flowers. I went to the gallery of car in Japan. I saw some store, Cheburashka and The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Snoopy, Hard Rock Cafe. You can see beautiful sailing ship "Nippon Maru". The ship in the U.S. and Europe have woman's name , but the ship in Japan have name of boy. We enjoyed going out at sunny day in rainy season. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 23, 2013, 8:27 am |
It was sunny today though it is rainy season.
We went to Tateishi park. This is a great place to see Mount Fuji(most highest mountain(3443m) in Japan,It will be included in UNESCO recently). We could not see Mount Fuji unfortunately. Mount Fuji can be seen in winter here. Words of Izumi Kyoka(Japanese writer) of "Kusameikyu(means grass Labyrinth)" (1908) is written in stone monument. But coast rocks(12m height, called Tateishi) was a great landscape. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 23, 2013, 1:15 pm |
Tonight is "super moon" in Japan.
We can see full moon bigger and brighter than everyday. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 28, 2013, 12:06 pm |
My host has a day off from work today.
She enjoyed Postcrossing at home because It is rainy. We helped choosing her postcard. Cats postcard, Map postcard and more. We send to Germany,Taiwan,Poland,Latvia,Hong Kong,Slovenia,Italy. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 28, 2013, 12:19 pm |
We looked at the plant at my host home's balcony.
You can see basil, mint, green perilla. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 29, 2013, 5:58 am |
My host after the work end, we went to Verny park because tomorrow will be rainy.
You can see the Route 16. Japanese cars are keep on left. Roses bloomed a lot to Verny park. It was very sweet smell. Look in the distance is the naval port of the United States Navy. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 29, 2013, 9:56 am |
We went to the Dobuita street in Yokosuka.
There is a bar and restaurant and souvenir shop for the U.S. Navy in Japan here. There is a fusion of the unique culture of the United States and Japan. |
cocoaby Posted Jun 29, 2013, 10:17 am |
I ate sushi for lunch today.
Sushi is really delicious! |
cocoaby Posted Jun 30, 2013, 10:50 am |
My host made bread for lunch today.
Cheese bacon bread, tuna and mayonnaise bread was also delicious. I'm tried drinking cafe au lait. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 1, 2013, 10:44 am |
My host made a Taco-Rice to dinner.
I will place a with crushed cashew nuts, lettuce, taco, tomato, cheese, and radish sprouts on top of the rice. It is a spicy! |
cocoaby Posted Jul 3, 2013, 10:07 am |
We went to the "Umibe-tsuri-koen(means seaside fishing park)" to walk 15 minutes.
There are people who love fishing a lot of here. It seems to have caught a mackerel and horse mackerel. And you can see it was decorated with empty cans are crafted there. I tried climb to the stone. I found a flower called "Hamayuu(crinum)" . We went back home because light rain falling. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 7, 2013, 5:06 am |
It is very hot and humid today. 32 degrees, 82% humidity.
We came to Yokosuka Central Station. I found an old pay phone. This phone can also international call. I want to talk to my mom. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 7, 2013, 8:26 am |
We went to Nogeyama Zoo in Yokohama.
It is a small zoo, but here you can see the animals for no charge. At first, You can see the topiary of animal. Giraffe was really big and beautiful. I can touch several kinds of small animals like mouse, guinea pig and fowl chick. I and chick and guinea pig was able to play. Guinea Pigs was really cute. I think we had become very good friends. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 10, 2013, 6:59 am |
Then, We went to the CUPNOODLES museum.
Do you know CUPNOODLES ? This is the museum where very popular in Yokohama. Golden statue is Momofuku Ando(1910-2007). Here you can create your own completely original CUPNOODLES package. In a cup that you design, select your favorite soup from among four varieties and four toppings from among 12 ingredients. Altogether, there are 5,460 flavor combinations. We created own original CUPNOODLES. CUPNOODLES became a nice bag of air bag. We enjoyed everything. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 14, 2013, 12:59 am |
We went to Kurihama Tenjin.
This shrine was built 350 years ago. God of learning has been enshrined here. There was a "How to pray at the shrine". We rode on the back of a Komainu(dog). Hot ! Today's temperature is 33 degrees. I think They want to drink cold beer. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 14, 2013, 11:29 am |
We ate cup noodles to lunch.
It was so delicious. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 14, 2013, 11:37 am |
We made a banana cake on afternoon.
Crushed ripe banana, it was mixed with flour and eggs. It is surprisingly delicious. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 15, 2013, 10:46 am |
Edamame, Edamame, I eat edamame.
I think edamame is delicious especially with beer in the hot summer. Edamame are soybeans harvested while still green. After being boiled in salted water, they are popped out of their shells and eaten. It was really delicious! |
cocoaby Posted Jul 18, 2013, 9:02 am |
Hi mom,
I am glad that my toy friends celebrated my birthday. I ate small birthday cake, it was sweet and yummy. I feel so happy. a lot of love Lotta |
cocoaby Posted Jul 20, 2013, 1:50 pm |
We went to Kawasaki Daishi .
Today, Japanese wind chime market is held in the grounds of the Kawasaki Daishi temple. Almost 30,000 wind chimes are brought here from all over Japan. There are more than 800 different kinds. It's a wind chime [wind bell], called "Furin", and usually hung outside a house to be played by the wind. Japanese chime is often made of metal or glass. We had been fascinated by Japanese wind chime refreshing sound and colorful. Kawasaki Daishi has a history of 880 years over. This hall of Kawasaki Daishi was destroyed by fire during the war in April 1945. It was rebuilt in May 1958. Smell and smoke of "Goma" was full to Kawasaki Daishi. The Goma is a solemn religious ceremony that is supported by a deeply esoteric Buddhist doctrine. The Japanese word “Goma” is read “Homa” in Sanskrit. It means “to burn.” The word expresses the meaning that using the fire that comes from Buddha’s wisdom, worldly desires (the source of suffering) will be completely burned. We could visit famous temples of Japan. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 24, 2013, 12:33 am |
One popular summertime tofu dish is hiyayakko.
I ate "hiyayakko". Tofu is made from soybeans. It’s nutritious and has long been an important source of protein for the Japanese. There is a variety of tofu dishes, such as hiyayakko(chilled tofu), yudofu(simmered tofu). |
cocoaby Posted Jul 24, 2013, 1:03 am |
One popular summertime sweet is "mizu-yokan".
I ate "mizu-yokan". Mizu-yokan is Japanese a thick jellied sweet made of azuki bean paste, kanten and sugar. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 28, 2013, 8:03 am |
I ate Warabi-mochi.
"Warabi-mochi is a translucent, cool, summer sweet as jelly. It's really delicious eaten with kinako powder after having been cooled in refrigerator. I could enjoy the chewy but soft texture and the aroma of kinako powder. Then I ate Mitarashi-dango. Dango is a Japanese dumpling made from rice flour. Mitarashi dango is skewered rice dumplings with sweet soy sauce based sauce. It was yummy. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 28, 2013, 8:26 am |
Maximum temperature today is +32 degrees.
Minimum temperature is +24 degrees. The sky is clouded over. We went on a bicycle to Mikasa Park. |
cocoaby Posted Jul 28, 2013, 8:50 am |
I can balancing on a rolling ball.
Is this a ball ? It was watermelon. |
cocoaby Posted Aug 4, 2013, 3:58 am |
Firework displays (hanabi-taikai) are a typical summer scene in Japan.
Tonight, we could see the fireworks. The sky was ablaze with fireworks. It was big sounds and so beautiful. |
cocoaby Posted Aug 7, 2013, 5:39 am |
I saw a TV program to learn German in Japan, It is very interesting and easy understand for me.
It is broadcast on public television station broadcasting in Japan once a week. |
cocoaby Posted Aug 7, 2013, 6:00 am |
My host bought three books.
Any paperback is very popular in Japan now. |
cocoaby Posted Aug 7, 2013, 6:07 am |
I was taught my name in Japanese.
Be written easily seems to be able to me. |
cocoaby Posted Aug 7, 2013, 6:31 am |
I have to say good bye.
Yellow frog Houjicha said "We will never forget the days we spent with Lotta. Have a safe and nice trip." I will go to Australia. I am looking forward to seeing next host apartmentcat in Australia. See you soon. |
apartmentcat Posted Aug 21, 2013, 11:48 am |
Hi Mum!
Last night I arrived in Melbourne, Australia! I was very comfy in my bag, and it was covered in lots of pretty stamps, which made me happy. Thank you to cocoaby for looking after me so well and for the cute souvenirs! I met the TVs already here: Betty Bear and Anton. There are also some friendly toys that live here full-time. I'm looking forward to going out on some adventures very soon! Bye for now! Love, Lotta xx |
apartmentcat Posted Aug 22, 2013, 10:14 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we went to Federation Square in the City. It's the largest and newest public space in the city of Melbourne, finished in 2002. When it first opened, a lot of people thought it was ugly, but there wasn't much new-style architecture in Melbourne then, so people weren't used to it. Most people seem to like it now. A few people still don't like it, but there's not much they can do now! The main building is the National Gallery of Victoria's modern and Australian art collection. There is also the headquarters for SBS TV Station, and on the roof is an experimental beehive, the Rooftop Honey project. On the other side is the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. (It's a film museum and cinema.) The main square has a huge TV screen which often shows big sporting matches, cultural events or short films from the film museum's collection. The paving on the ground is a huge artwork. The colours and curved surface look like the dunes in the desert. The largest building is covered in sandstone. It's sandy colour also ties in to the desert theme. Every piece of sandstone and glass is a triangle shape, and they all fit in together in a crazy pattern. Host Sister says there's a story that not a single angle in the whole pattern is a square angle. But she's not sure if this is really true! The smaller building on the front corner is covered in zinc metal, which reflects the sky whatever the weather is. At the back is the Atrium. This is the entrance to the Art Gallery. The glass roof is 5 storeys high! The glass wall has two layers, and sometimes there are art displays in the middle. Like an art sandwich! The artwork on display at the moment is called '1000 Tears'. Members of the public emailed the artist to tell her their biggest regret, and she wrote them on tears made of paper. And around the other side was a pretty garden bed full of daffodils. Across the river is the concert hall, the classical art gallery and the botanical gardens. But we'll go there some other time! It's time to go now. Bye for now! Love, Lotta xx |
apartmentcat Posted Aug 29, 2013, 12:39 pm |
Hi Mum!
Today we welcomed Huli Hutu. He comes from the U.S.A., but has travelled from Germany to visit us. Huli Hutu fulfilled one of his life goals in visiting Australia! We had a cupcake to celebrate. It was so yummy! Bye for now! |
apartmentcat Posted Sep 1, 2013, 9:54 am |
Hi Mum!
How are you? Today we did something a little bit different. We voted! Well, Host Sister and Host Brother did. There is an election soon. Time to choose a new Prime Minister, or perhaps keep the old one! In Australia, voting at elections is compulsory. Everyone aged 18 years and over must vote on election day, or they have to pay a fine. It used to be that everyone had to show up on election day to a polling place to fill out their ballot. How annoying! In the last few years it has been allowed to vote by postal vote. The voters go online to request a postal ballot paper, then the papers are sent out in the mail. They're filled out at home and sent back. As long as they're filled out before election day, everything is fine. Host Sister says voting at home is more convenient, but not as fun! Normally the polling places are at a school. The people running them usually set up a barbeque to raise money for the school. After voting, you can buy a sausage in bread, and sometimes they have a cake stall as well. Host Sister and Host Brother didn't want to miss out on the fun of the barbeque! So we made sausages in bread and sweets at home. Here are the chocolate crackles and honey joys. Who are we going to vote for?? Wow, this paper is so long! So many to choose from! Phew! Now the papers are all filled in and put into the envelopes. We'll take them to the post box tomorrow morning. Now it's time for another chocolate crackle! xx |
apartmentcat Posted Oct 2, 2013, 10:30 am |
Hi Mum!
I want to say sorry for not updating in so long, but we have been very busy because Host Sister moved house. Where did all the furniture go?? Bye bye old house! Hello new house! OK, we found some of the belongings. So many boxes to unpack, wow! Host Sister says we will go for a walk around the new neighbourhood this weekend and see what's here. Love you! Lotta xx |
apartmentcat Posted Nov 5, 2013, 12:35 am |
Hi Mum!
Yesterday a new friend arrived in Australia. Who can it be? It's a cute bear called Columbus! He's travelled a long way to be here. Hello Columbus! To celebrate the arrival of Columbus, we did some baking. We made the Babka from Host Sister's cooking magazine. I think the Babka and things like it are found in many cultures. It is filled with dried fruit and a rum syrup is poured over the top. Here I am mixing the flour and the eggs together. Now the dough is all mixed together and kneaded. Next we need to wait a while so the dough can rise. Next Host Sister rolled the dough out into a biiiig rectangle. It's so big, it looks like a field! Maybe some grass will grow on it that I can munch on. Then we sprinkled the filling over the dough. There are dried apricots, which had been soaked in schnapps for a few hours to make them plump, and some chocolate. Host Sister then rolled the whole thing up into a big log. Smile, everyone! We cut the log up into slices and arranged them in a greased baking tin. After baking, it doesn't really look like the photo in the magazine, but I'm still going to taste it! While the Babka was cooking, Host Sister made a syrup from cherry brandy and sugar. We poured it over the top of the babka buns. It was delicious. Bye Mum! |
apartmentcat Posted Nov 14, 2013, 10:28 am |
Hi Mum!
Today I went to work with Host Sister. Unfortunately the weather wasn't very nice, but we went to see some sights in the City at lunch time anyway. We went to see the "Top End" of the city. Right at the top end of Collins Street is the Old Treasury Building. It was built in 1862 during the Gold Rush times. Miners were digging up so much gold, and the Government earning so much tax from them, that they needed somewhere special to keep all the gold. Of course, they didn't call it the "Old Treasury" then, just the "Treasury"! After the treasury was moved to a new building, it became a museum. Part of it is also the Marriage Registry. Every day there are always lots of couples and family having their photos taken on the steps. Host Sister says this is where she got married! Here we're looking down Collins Street from the Top End. This is also called the "Paris End" of Collins Street, because of the leafy trees and all the international designer stores here (Armani, Gucci, etc.). The centre of Melbourne was built on a grid one mile long and half a mile wide. It slopes from the Government buildings at the top of the hill down to Docklands on the bay. The top end of the city is considered to be the most beautiful. All the old buildings from Gold Rush times are here, most of the theatres and many parks. Next door is the Treasury Gardens. It's a small park, but it's one of the most beautiful in Melbourne. Next to it there are more government buildings. The leader of Victoria (the Premier) has his offices in the closest one. It's about to rain, time to go back to work! Bye for now! Love, Lotta xx |
apartmentcat Posted Nov 19, 2013, 9:51 am |
Hello!
Today was the birthday of Columbus bear, so we had a party with cake and lollies! We had a lovely time and the cupcake was really yummy. Happy Birthday Columbus! xx |
apartmentcat Posted Nov 27, 2013, 10:31 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we said goodbye to Betty Bear. She is leaving Australia to go to Alaska in the U.S.A. We had a lot of fun and we will miss her, but we wish her well on her journey. Love you Mum! xx Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Dec 2, 2013, 9:59 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we welcomed Sally Seal. She's travelled all the way from Germany. We all gave her a big hug. I nearly got lost in the grass! But I found this lantern in the garden to help me find my way. We had a little party. Talk to you again soon! xx Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Dec 12, 2013, 9:52 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we went to Fitzroy Gardens. It's a traditional English-style park on the edge of the city. The early pioneers in Melbourne decided that the city should have lots of parks, so Fitzroy Gardens was founded in 1848. There are lots of paths for people to walk on, and interesting things to look at throughout the park. Look, off in the distance! A wedding! This is the Model Tudor Village. It's got Shakespeare's House and lots of other buildings. We weren't allowed into the village, but just looked from the edge. I'm hiding in the ivy! Can you see me? I hope you're well, I miss you! xx Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Dec 26, 2013, 10:38 pm |
Hi Mum!
It's the night before Christmas and we're having a Christmas Eve dinner. But first we're going to open some of the presents! For dinner we had roasted vegetables and meats, it was yummy. Then for dessert we had trifle, a Yule log lamington, and some apricots from Host Sister's tree. Merry Christmas! Love from Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Feb 18, 2014, 8:39 am |
Hello!
Today we welcomed a new toy, Alien Princes. She travelled all the way from the U.S.A. It was a very long trip, but now she's here safe and sound. We all gave her a big hug and welcomed her to Australia. Today we are at work with Host Sister. We also went for a walk in the city. I'll show you photos soon. Love you! xx Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Feb 23, 2014, 9:55 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we went for a walk by the Yarra River. It's been very hot recently, but today was a little cooler so we went out at lunch time. Along this part of the river is the Melbourne Aquarium and Flinders Street Station. On the far side is Southbank, where a lot of new skyscrapers are being built. There's Eureka Tower, the largest building in Melbourne. A bigger tower has just been approved for building though, so it won't be the tallest for long! The air was very hazy today, why was that? We checked the new bushfire information website to find out if there are any fires in the state of Victoria at the moment. There are some, but they're far north of here. Host Sister says that no-one was hurt, so that's lucky. This is the view from the building where Host Sister works. The building on the right is going to be demolished soon. The brown one in the centre is a heritage building that used to be a brewery. See you again soon! Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Feb 26, 2014, 8:37 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we said goodbye to Sally Seal. She is travelling to a new host in California. We all gave her a big hug before she climbed into her bag. Bye Sally! Love, Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Mar 4, 2014, 8:08 am |
Hi Mum!
Today we welcomed Bernie Bear, who has travelled all the way from China to visit. To celebrate, we baked some vegemite and cheese scrolls! Here is the dough in the breadmaker. We tipped the dough out of the tin and pressed it flat. Then we made it into a rectangle shape and spread Vegemite and cheese all over it. The Vegemite smelled disgusting, but Host Sister says it's delicious. I don't know about that! Then we rolled the dough up, cut it into scrolls and put them in the baking tin. Here they are cooked. Wow, they grew so much bigger! We all enjoyed the bread straight out of the oven with some butter on it. Yum! Talk to you soon! Lotta |
apartmentcat Posted Mar 10, 2014, 9:38 am |
Dear Mum,
Today was my last day in Australia, so we went for one last walk in the city before saying goodbye. The Melbourne Town Hall: The popular dog statue: Looking down Flinders Lane: Flinders Street Station: Here is my bag that I'm going to travel in. Host Sister put some snacks inside for the trip: Wow, Canada is such a long way! We looked up the weather there. Gosh it's so cold! Host Sister says she has never been in temperatures that cold. and only ever saw snow 3 times in her life. She was worried I'd get cold, so she made me a scarf. I said goodbye to all the other toys and gave them all a hug. Into my bag I go, and off to Canada! Talk to you when I get there! Love you, Lotta xx |
smaug Posted Mar 24, 2014, 3:18 am |
Hi Mum,
I am in Canada ! Today I felt a lot of activity around my travelling quarters . As I managed to get out I found a posse of TVs welcoming me , Tatanka and Shakespeare who are visiting from Germany like me , Krystal and Landroval who are spending some time at home and sammino who will be my host here in Calgary . They were all very impressed with the delicious Aussie sweets that I brought with me ...I was very good and managed not to eat them all on the way here. Of course, a late night of travel chatting followed . |
smaug Posted Mar 31, 2014, 3:24 am |
Hi Mum,
We are in spring ! Not that we really noticed, as it has been relentlessly snowing over the last few days . But today it was sunny enough to try going for a quick trip to the mountains . The trees were covered with nice fresh snow... ...so we decided to stop playing into one of them . Sometimes a nice viewed opened up along the trail. Eventually we reached the highest point of our hike. We were thinking to reach the top of that ridge,... ...but looking west we noticed the it was probably snowing heavy over the mountains and it looked like the storm was coming towards us . With temperatures deep in the minus teens, we were not really keen on having to deal with a blizzard too , so we urged smaug to turn around and walk fast back to the car. |
smaug Posted Apr 21, 2014, 2:21 am |
Hi Mum,
Not sure if we will ever see something resembling spring here . It’s getting warmer, but it’s also snowing more often. Today, for instance, it wasn’t very nice, but we went for a short hike anyway. As soon as we reached the parking lot, it was clear that lack of fresh snow was not going to be an issue . The trail was actually very nice with the trees all covered in snow ... ...but the view left a bit to be desired as the snowfall was clouding everything around us. So we decided to hide in the backpack and helped ourselves with smaug’s supplies until it was time to go back home. |
smaug Posted Apr 22, 2014, 4:28 am |
Hi Mum,
After more snow yesterday, this morning the weather was gorgeous , so we went for a walk close to Banff...and we walked in the sunshine . After a short time we started having lovey views over Lake Minnewanka . Later we reached a nice viewpoint where we could enjoy more views of the lake... ...and of the mountains surrounding it. As we started gaining elevation the trail was getting very snowbound, to the point that we worried we were going to have to turn back soon . But, for once, smaug was prepared , so we put on the snowshoes he carried up here and we were soon back on the move . Eventually the snow became too soft and deep to keep going even with snowshoes , so we took a final couple of photos of the lake before heading back to the car. |
smaug Posted May 4, 2014, 7:39 pm |
Hi Mum,
Happy Easter ! Today we were hoping to get a gigantic chocolate egg each , but we had to settle for something more TV-size . Luckily, there was enough for everybody . |
smaug Posted May 4, 2014, 7:53 pm |
Hi Mum,
Today it was sammino’s birthday . We were planning to sing Happy Birthday for him and party all day , but we all agreed that, at his age , the best way to party was to cut to the chase and going straight after the cake . |
smaug Posted May 19, 2014, 10:53 pm |
Hi Mum,
Look a that! This is getting ridiculous ! We are in May and still are getting another fresh dump of snow . I guess this is going to be another boring weekend . |
smaug Posted May 20, 2014, 12:53 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we managed to go for a short walk near Calgary. After a bit we started having a nice view over the River Elbow . We were hoping to reach the top of that ridge,... ...but going through the trees the snow was getting deeper and deeper, to the point that even smaug was sinking up to his waist , so we eventually opted to follow a more exposed and less snowy path up to a nice viewpoint. We could see Moose Mountain in the north... ...prairies and foothills to the east... ...and again the mountains around the Elbow Valley to the south and west . |
smaug Posted Jun 2, 2014, 4:47 am |
Hi Mum,
Today we went for another short trip to the mountains . The first part of the trip was fairly boring in the middle of the trees, but after some time we reached a nice viewpoint from where we had a lovely view over Barrier Lake ,... ...the Prairies... ...and Kananaskis Valley. As we move further up we could see the Bow Valley heading deep into the mountains... ...and the front face of the Rockies in the north. The view of the Prairies got better too, but the sky was also getting a bit darker , so we quickly got on our way down . |
smaug Posted Jan 5, 2015, 3:01 am |
Hi Mum,
Today was a beautiful day, so we went for a bike ride in the Elbow valley and took a few pictures . |
smaug Posted Jan 6, 2015, 3:04 am |
Hi Mum,
Today smaug came home with a very interesting parcel, so we all gathered to open it . And guess what? A new friend came out of it, GustavHH ! Of course, we wanted to hear everything about his adventures, so we spent the whole night up chatting . |
smaug Posted Jan 11, 2015, 9:49 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we went for a nice hike within Banff National Park . First we walked a bit along Lake Minnewanka... ...before making our way up to the site of a former fire lookout, where the view was great . It was also cold and windy, so we chose to quickly move down and walk a bit on the lake shore. Down there it was actually so nice that we decided to cap the day with a few hours of relax and sunbathing . |
smaug Posted Jan 12, 2015, 12:11 am |
Hi Mum,
today we went for another nice hike . It must have been fairly early since the parking lot was empty when we left the car. After a bit of walking we started having some nice view over the Rockies in the west . Eventually we reached the summit, where the view was great, but the clouds looked quite bad, and the wind was blasting cold too (so much for the first day of summer ), so we took some photos and headed back. |
smaug Posted Jan 12, 2015, 12:34 am |
Hi Mum,
a new friend arrived today . smaug brought home a little parcel... ...and when we opened it Stoker came out ! Of course, we wanted to hear all about his travels, so he didn't have a chance to rest for a while . |
smaug Posted Jan 19, 2015, 2:49 am |
Hi Mum,
It seems it’s time to go on holiday ! Today, we closed our bags and got ready to drive to the airport . |
smaug Posted Jan 19, 2015, 3:20 am |
Hi Mum,
Guess what, I was in Germany today . We had a stopover in Frankfurt where one of smaug’s TV came over to say hello for a few hours. Of course there was lot of chatting involved . |
smaug Posted Jan 26, 2015, 3:16 am |
Hi Mum,
I am in Italy ! Today we were a bit tired and jet lagged, so we got a lovely breakfast, where we met one of smaug's TV, Pepita , who is staying here for a bit... ...and then went back to sleep . |
smaug Posted Jan 26, 2015, 3:49 am |
Hi Mum,
today we went for a bike ride just out of town . After a long climb we reached the top of the road to Monte Bondone, one of the hardest and more prestigious mountain of race when the Giro d'Italia comes around here, so we were very proud with our effort . As we moved on the other side of the mountain we could see the Brenta dolomites... ...and the Adige Valley in the distance . Further on we could see another nice valley. At that point we launched ourselves downhill , so we decided that it was better for smaug to put away the camera and focus on the handlebar . |
smaug Posted Jan 29, 2015, 4:14 am |
Hi Mum,
today we went for a nice hike in the Dolomites . After a bit of walking in the trees we started having a nice view... ...although it looked like we had still quite a way to go to reach the top of this valley . Eventually we reached the highest point of the day, where the view was very "rocky" , but unfortunately the weather seemed to be ready for turning wet. As it happens we managed to cross all this plateau without getting drenched... ...and later we headed into this nicely U-shaped valley that took us back to the car . |
smaug Posted Feb 2, 2015, 3:47 am |
Hi Mum,
today the weather was not great, but it was warm , so smaug took us for a little hike close to town. After a bit of walking we started having a nice view... ...and we had a glimpse of our destination: apparently we were aiming first for the peak on the right, and then we were going to follow the ridge heading left . From the summit the view was great in every direction . After following a bit of the ridge, we could even see a bit of Trento in the distance. To give a bit of cultural tone to the trip and in true commemoration spirit of the centenary of the start of WWI, sammino explained to us that those abandoned barracks next to my head were actually built when this corner of Italy was still part of the Austro-Hungarian empire . |
smaug Posted Feb 2, 2015, 4:10 am |
Hi Mum,
We are soon heading back to Canada, so today it was time to say goodbye to Pepita and to all the other friends we met here in Italy . |
smaug Posted Feb 3, 2015, 4:06 am |
Hi Mum,
On the way back to Canada we had another long stopover in Frankfurt, so Orpheus and Sigfrido came to spend some time with us at the airport . Luckily it was a lovely day, so we could stay outside chatting in the sun . |
smaug Posted Feb 8, 2015, 9:49 pm |
Hi Mum,
today it was World Cup final day and with Germany in the final , we got very excited in our little Deutsch expats colony . Luckily yesterday in Frankfurt we had managed to put our hands on smaug's wallet and acquire something appropriate for the occasion . As the game was about to start the excitement grew even further... ...and it burst when Germany scored ... ...and lifted the cup . We decided to celebrate with whatever we could find ...and, of course, our hosts were more than happy to join in . |
smaug Posted Feb 8, 2015, 10:25 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we went out for our first short hike since coming back to Canada . After the usual walking under the cover of the trees, we come out at Baldy Pass where we had a nice view over the foothills . Pressing on, we reached the summit of Midnight Peak, where the view was great in all directions . Interesting enough, sammino explained to us that it appears to be a tradition (a rather unpleasant one ) to get drenched, or nearly so, whenever smaug comes up here . Since those dark clouds seemed to herald the upcoming rain, we hastily moved down the mountain and luckily only got a bit wet . |
smaug Posted Feb 15, 2015, 6:35 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we went over to the Rockies for a nice hike . After the usual time spent in the trees, we started having a nice view over the Bow Valley... ...and some of the peaks surrounding us. We also were able to look for the first time at our destination, which looked a bit more snowy than we expected for this time of the year . A bit later we reached a ridge just over this little lake... ...where the view opened up even more. From here the peak did not seem that far away . So, with a final effort we reached the top, where the view was great in all directions . It was also bitter cold , so we quickly moved down. On the way we noticed, with a bit of disappointment, that the sun had eventually decided to properly come out, warming the air and melting the snow on the top in the process . At least we managed to take a final nice photo before heading back home . |
smaug Posted Feb 23, 2015, 1:32 am |
Hi Mum,
today we went again out to the mountains . After a bit of walking we started having a nice view of Mt Glasgow, and the weather looked great too . Later we headed up the narrow Nihahi Creek Valley... ...that soon became just a large gravel creek bed . Pushing on, we climbed halfway on the ridge heading to Mt Fullerton... ...where we noticed some very concerning clouds speeding toward us . So, instead of trying to reach the summit, we hastily performed an about turn and reached the safety of the valley bottom just before lightning started brightening up the afternoon . |
smaug Posted Feb 23, 2015, 2:30 am |
Hi Mum,
This weekend the weather was again gorgeous, so as usual we headed to the mountains . sammino explained us that we were going to take a different route to reach a destination where he goes at least once a year . The first part of the day was the usual tedious slog through the forest, but soon we started having a nice view of the Bow Valley. On the way we always had in sight the typical ridge used to reach Mt Allan, with the rock walls of Mt Lougheed behind it ... ...and of the summit of Mt Allan. Still, before getting there we had to tackle the summit of Mt Collembola... ...and the false summit too . On the way we passed just over the Nakiska ski area, that hosted the alpine skiing competitions during the 1988 winter Olympics. Eventually we reached the summit of Mt Allan , from where we could look back at the last bit of the trail that we just followed... ...and where we took a final shot of the Bow Valley before starting to head back home. |
smaug Posted Mar 1, 2015, 11:58 pm |
Hi Mum,
Today the weather in town was quite nice , although it turned out that in the mountains it was slightly different, and after walking a bit on the trail things did not look very promising. By the time we reached our destination visibility was kind of limited . We decided to wait a bit hoping for the fog to clear up and helped us with some of the provisions in the backpack . As it happens things got even worse... ...so all we could do was pack up and go home . |
smaug Posted Mar 2, 2015, 1:29 am |
Hi Mum,
today we headed again to the mountains for a short walk. After a bit, we had nice views along the Elbow River valley ... ...and of Powderface Ridge, where we were engulfed by fog a week ago . Later we just spent the morning walking along this lovely ridge... ...all the time having a great view over the Rockies . |
smaug Posted Mar 8, 2015, 2:44 am |
Hi Mum,
guess what, today was another gorgeous day, and of course we went over to the mountains . After a bit we emerged from the trees and started having a nice view. It took a bit longer to eventually see our destination. From the summit of Wind Ridge, which wasn't really that windy , we could see Canmore in the distance... ...and rocky peaks all around us . We could also see the snow covered peak of Mt Allan, where we were just a few weeks ago. Before leaving the summit and heading back home we took a final look at the valley that we followed in the morning . |
smaug Posted Mar 8, 2015, 3:07 am |
Hi Mum,
look at that! You know what it is? Snow ! A full foot of heavy wet snow . How cool is that ?! Well, smaug seemed very much unimpressed to say the least , so we have to keep our enthusiasm in check when he's around . |
smaug Posted Mar 16, 2015, 12:15 am |
Hi Mum,
it has been only a few days since the snow storm, so today we decided to check the conditions of the trails around Calgary. Not surprisingly everything looked very white from the very start of the day . As we approached the summit of Cox Hill smaug decided that he had enough of plodding through waist deep snow and just let us take a few photos of the mountains before turning back. It looked like full winter . Even the prairies in the distance where completely white . |
smaug Posted Mar 16, 2015, 1:22 am |
Hi Mum,
today we went for another hike, and just one week and less that 100 km away from where we went last week, conditions where a bit different . After a bit we passed by this gully, but sammino explained that we were not going up there. Later we found this lovely sofa and decided to rest and enjoy the sun chitchatting for a while . As we kept going we started seeing the southern part of the Rockwall . Further on we reached the gorgeous Floe Lake with its crown of rocky walls . A final effort took us up to Numa Pass. From there we could see the trail we had just followed,... ..., Floe Lake and Floe Peak,... ...and on the opposite side Numa Creek Valley... ...and the Rockwall heading north . What a day ! |
smaug Posted Mar 22, 2015, 1:03 am |
Hi Mum,
although the weather wasn't exactly great, today we headed again to the mountains and spent the day passing by lakes . The first one we found was Vista Lake...where, despite the encouraging name, the view was just OK . Things improved once we reached Arnica Lake... ...and Upper Twin Lake, tucked under Storm Mountain . Finally we reached Lower Twin Lake, possibly the nicest of all the lakes with reached, although the weather did not really help in appreciating that. Later on, we reached our destination, Gibbon Pass. Obviously that plaque is quite old, since Canada has been a metric country for a few decades . We took a quick look around the pass before jumping back in smaug's backpack just in time before the snow started to fall . |
smaug Posted Mar 22, 2015, 2:17 am |
Hi Mum,
There's been some more snow falling on the mountains, so today we checked out how deep it is . It was soon obvious that white was going to be the main colour of the day . At some point we passed by this lovely creek which is not fully frozen yet . Once we reached Healy Pass we had confirmation that winter is indeed here . Time to get the snow shoes out . |
smaug Posted Mar 28, 2015, 10:34 pm |
Hi Mum,
the weather is quite strange here: most of the snow seems to be gone , so today we went to check how things are in the mountains. It looked like that around both Elbow and Little Elbow Valleys there was snow left only at the higher elevations. On the other side, there was no trace of white whatsoever. Maybe winter is not ready to come after all . |
smaug Posted Mar 28, 2015, 10:54 pm |
Hi Mum,
the snow is back ! Lot of it. Today we decided to go downstairs and play a bit . On second thought, looking at the temperature, we decided that it was probably a good day to stay nice and comfortable at home . |
smaug Posted Apr 5, 2015, 9:33 pm |
Hi Mum,
it' been snowing again this week, but this morning the weather seemed inclined to improve , so we went for a short hike. The atmosphere was great . But by the time we reached the nicest viewpoint the day had turned really dark , so we decided not to linger, took some photos and headed back. |
smaug Posted Apr 5, 2015, 10:01 pm |
Hi Mum,
guess what? We are back in Italy . smaug was so busy and so late in packing up that he even forgot to report our departure from Calgary yesterday . But today the gang of locals was as always ready to welcome us . |
smaug Posted Apr 5, 2015, 10:38 pm |
Hi Mum,
after a few days of rest, today we went up to a nice view point on the side of the valley. The sun was warm, the sky was blue and the view was great . There was even a nice bench where we could sit and chat while enjoying the sun . |
smaug Posted Apr 6, 2015, 12:42 am |
Hi Mum,
the weather is quite spectacular, it's almost like summer . So today we took advantage of the sun and went for another short hike near town. The view over the valley was great . And so was the ridge that we followed... ...and the valley on the other side of the mountain . There was even a big metal map showing the direction of all the peaks that you can see from up here . |
smaug Posted Apr 11, 2015, 10:21 pm |
Hi Mum,
today some new guests arrived home. Orpheus, Pepita and Sigfrido came home to celebrate Christmas . Of, course, with so many TVs in one room, lot of chatting followed . |
smaug Posted Apr 11, 2015, 10:40 pm |
Merry Christmas Mum !
Tonight, as usual we celebrated Christmas eve . Of course, as soon as the big people moved away from the table to deal with presents, we took control of proceedings in the dessert area . |
smaug Posted Apr 11, 2015, 11:14 pm |
Hi Mum,
today we spent the day travelling around the German motorways . It's not exactly exciting to just look out of the windshield for over 10 hours, but it was nice to be on home soil for a bit . And tomorrow it sounds like it's going to be the same on the way back . |
smaug Posted Apr 11, 2015, 11:41 pm |
Hi Mum,
it's time to go back to Canada , so today, before heading to the airport, we said goodbye to our friends who will stay in Italy a bit longer . |
smaug Posted Apr 26, 2015, 12:00 am |
Hi Mum,
today the weather was great . It was so warm that it felt almost like summer...almost , so we decided to pay a visit to the mountains. After the usual long bit of walking under trees we started having a nice view . Going further up, the view opened on the Prairies in the distance,... ...and became great over the Rockies . At that point the wind was picking up and it didn't really feel like summer anymore , so we hastily moved back under the protection of the trees. |
smaug Posted Apr 26, 2015, 12:21 am |
Hi Mum,
today I said goodbye to my friends here in Calgary on got ready to start travelling back home . Before I jumped in my travelling quarters sammino gave me a big hug and wished me a safe journey . See you soon . |
Ravyna Posted May 16, 2015, 12:45 pm |
I’m home again after such a long time. That’s a strange feeling.
It was great to see my friends and family again and tell them all about my voyage around the world. I had to show them on a map where I’ve been. I want say THANK YOU to all my hosts, who showed me so many wonderful places on this earth!! I hope my voyage will go on some day… |