tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73663742288878649412024-03-13T11:23:23.567-07:00The Adventures of FTB'sThe adventures of the Furry Travel Buddies as they make their way around the world. One of a kind handmade plushies by Desiree B.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-20380356504921258212011-08-29T20:00:00.000-07:002011-08-29T20:00:57.922-07:00Constance gets a Makeover<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Just when I had given up hope of FTB news I got this in my email. Constance the ever stylish furry travel buddy is back following a makeover. Thanks you Emily, this made me laugh ! I hope that she has a vacation soon. If you have some FTB pics email me or upload to my facebook page I'd love to see them.<a href="http://www.facebook.com/handmadebydesireeb">www.facebook.com/handmadebydesireeb</a><br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfdIvYgx4sA/TlxRqRZTvXI/AAAAAAAACVQ/OrxSOwSDzFc/s1600/constance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfdIvYgx4sA/TlxRqRZTvXI/AAAAAAAACVQ/OrxSOwSDzFc/s640/constance.jpg" width="432" /></a></div><br />
</div></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-10960048315456669282010-10-05T16:56:00.000-07:002010-10-05T16:56:44.805-07:00Sky, Ethel and Constance In LanzaroteIt seems like Summer is finally over but here are Sky, Ethel and Constance to remind you of warmer times.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuv4vfShjI/AAAAAAAACGE/XqqDiuoyiD0/s1600/Bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuv4vfShjI/AAAAAAAACGE/XqqDiuoyiD0/s320/Bag.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The intrepid threesome pack their carry on luggage. There is no time to waste at the airport waiting for luggage on the conveyor belt so they pack only the essentials.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw-FsudaI/AAAAAAAACGo/5TFaanZjdyE/s320/Lanzarote.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One complimentary drink and a packet of nuts later and they are in Lanzarote.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw-FsudaI/AAAAAAAACGo/5TFaanZjdyE/s1600/Lanzarote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwj1GOnrI/AAAAAAAACGY/7yPNxLaD_qw/s320/DSC00018.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwj1GOnrI/AAAAAAAACGY/7yPNxLaD_qw/s1600/DSC00018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div> No sooner have they arrived at the hotel the girls hit the beach.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuws5ZU1EI/AAAAAAAACGc/1gkW1-sJZVA/s320/DSC00023.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda isn't really much of a sun worshiper so she strolls off in search of adventure but with the beating sun doesn't get very far.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwAIM7yCI/AAAAAAAACGI/4-iqak_p0bc/s320/DSC00004.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meanwhile Sky has overheated and finds a rock from which she can dive bomb into the pool.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuws5ZU1EI/AAAAAAAACGc/1gkW1-sJZVA/s1600/DSC00023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwAIM7yCI/AAAAAAAACGI/4-iqak_p0bc/s1600/DSC00004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwJGdM7OI/AAAAAAAACGM/6jVg3Ybo_Aw/s1600/DSC00005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwJGdM7OI/AAAAAAAACGM/6jVg3Ybo_Aw/s320/DSC00005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> That was the plan but rocks can be slippy and she ends up close and personal with a relative of the cactus family.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwSBi8IjI/AAAAAAAACGQ/h8jLIiW3dOE/s1600/DSC00006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwSBi8IjI/AAAAAAAACGQ/h8jLIiW3dOE/s320/DSC00006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Fortunately Ethel witnessed the incident and comes to her rescue.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuxCLxWZLI/AAAAAAAACGs/nUysiKqK6Jo/s320/Pool.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuxCLxWZLI/AAAAAAAACGs/nUysiKqK6Jo/s1600/Pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>Constance meanwhile has secured a pink inflatable to match her outfit, with the help of a rather over friendly frog. The ladies are not amused, by the frog that is.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwbOU_AbI/AAAAAAAACGU/O10BFsFDTS8/s1600/DSC00007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuwbOU_AbI/AAAAAAAACGU/O10BFsFDTS8/s1600/DSC00007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The following day the clouds have rolled in so the girls decide on a bit of sightseeing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw16ttEoI/AAAAAAAACGg/25WN2BmT74U/s1600/DSC00046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw16ttEoI/AAAAAAAACGg/25WN2BmT74U/s320/DSC00046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Their tour guide is having a hard time, the girls were not expecting such a big hike and are exhausted by the time they reach the summit. To be honest the tour guide hadn't expected it to take that long either.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw88CTuOI/AAAAAAAACGk/QG_pgJwUzJM/s1600/DSC00101.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TKuw88CTuOI/AAAAAAAACGk/QG_pgJwUzJM/s1600/DSC00101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As the sun goes down over Lanzarote the girls still have an hour to go before getting back to the hotel. "Now who's bright idea was this?" says Constance. Sky and Brenda merely sigh, it's going to be a long walk......<br />
<br />
Thanks to Ems for the action packed pics. Nice work.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-8021006747137223622010-08-22T19:14:00.000-07:002010-08-22T19:14:36.128-07:00Herman the German in CornwallHerman the German has been on the move once more. Sophy has documented his trip with both photos and words. It looks as though it was a bit chilly !<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHWyectw2I/AAAAAAAACEc/fX7WVNPAShk/s1600/IMG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHWyectw2I/AAAAAAAACEc/fX7WVNPAShk/s400/IMG_0433.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Herman sets off on a rainy day to walk (or more like swim) through the mud to see Gribbin Daymark, which has saved many a sailor's souls. Herman hopes he won't need rescuing by anybody, though he might need a blow-dry when he gets home!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHWz8VuJ6I/AAAAAAAACEk/R9LSlvZb9lE/s1600/IMG_0434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHWz8VuJ6I/AAAAAAAACEk/R9LSlvZb9lE/s320/IMG_0434.JPG" /></a></div>At last, somewhere to shelter. He's thinking it might be best to stay there and let the humans tackle the steep stairs up the 84ft tower to the exposed roof!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW2PHsPBI/AAAAAAAACEs/zW84w5i7opU/s1600/IMG_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW2PHsPBI/AAAAAAAACEs/zW84w5i7opU/s320/IMG_0460.JPG" /></a></div>Herman relaxes at an almost deserted Porthluney beach as dusk descends on the Cornish coast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW4Dzn92I/AAAAAAAACE0/cismryJk64Q/s1600/IMG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW4Dzn92I/AAAAAAAACE0/cismryJk64Q/s320/IMG_0463.JPG" /></a></div>The next day, he decides to be rather more active and take a cycle ride along the Camel Trail cycle path from Padstow to Bodmin. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW5wPcy6I/AAAAAAAACE8/J6_IdacRZwE/s1600/IMG_0469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW5wPcy6I/AAAAAAAACE8/J6_IdacRZwE/s400/IMG_0469.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Along the way, he stops for a well needed rest at a tiny railway halt, hidden amongst the greenery and almost unused. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW7Tgfv2I/AAAAAAAACFE/vYlAAuspBgI/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/THHW7Tgfv2I/AAAAAAAACFE/vYlAAuspBgI/s320/IMG_0520.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Herman visits the Eden Project, hoping that he can finish the holiday by warming up and drying off inside one of the tropical biodomes!Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-7844989401063217262010-08-12T11:27:00.000-07:002010-08-12T11:27:26.619-07:00Bea and Marlene in the Far East<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ4-S6y3LI/AAAAAAAACDM/RMBRzkgQn3s/s1600/P1000383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ4-S6y3LI/AAAAAAAACDM/RMBRzkgQn3s/s320/P1000383.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Holiday time for these lucky FTB's</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ7KTnyi7I/AAAAAAAACEU/a8y_mGIaHC0/s1600/P1000386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ7KTnyi7I/AAAAAAAACEU/a8y_mGIaHC0/s320/P1000386.JPG" /></a></div> Bea is up bright and early doing her morning dips, she likes to keep in shape even when on holiday.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5OU9lNKI/AAAAAAAACEE/xTZq3V-DHUw/s1600/P1000281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5OU9lNKI/AAAAAAAACEE/xTZq3V-DHUw/s320/P1000281.JPG" /></a></div>As she wonders down for breakfast she spots the tour group boarding the bus. She frantically yells at Marlene who is still snoozing to get a move on or they will be left behind.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5MqZ6ajI/AAAAAAAACD8/B8dYXN-XcTQ/s1600/P1000280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5MqZ6ajI/AAAAAAAACD8/B8dYXN-XcTQ/s320/P1000280.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Marlene is not good in the morning and somehow finds herself in the storage area of the hotel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5CJ9GL9I/AAAAAAAACDc/62ZxTJAShww/s1600/P1000467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5CJ9GL9I/AAAAAAAACDc/62ZxTJAShww/s320/P1000467.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Bea manages to find her in the knick of time and drags her to the minibus.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5AyUh12I/AAAAAAAACDU/igCMoHpFvys/s1600/P1000287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5AyUh12I/AAAAAAAACDU/igCMoHpFvys/s320/P1000287.JPG" /></a></div>They arrive at some beautiful ornamental gardens where they find a passerby to snap their photo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5DxXtVTI/AAAAAAAACDk/7ezfiSiw1rM/s1600/P1000291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5DxXtVTI/AAAAAAAACDk/7ezfiSiw1rM/s320/P1000291.JPG" />lk</a></div>Bea opts for the waterfall close-up even if it means getting a bit wet. Marlene is happy to keep her distance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5Lh9vf4I/AAAAAAAACD0/YtFtywRF4Bg/s1600/P1000480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5Lh9vf4I/AAAAAAAACD0/YtFtywRF4Bg/s320/P1000480.JPG" /></a></div>After a lot of walking the intrepid duo sneak a quick nap before rejoining the tour group. "They'll never miss us." says Marlene who is still reeling from the rude awakening this morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5FhCEI0I/AAAAAAAACDs/I7UdORAG2zg/s1600/P1000460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TGQ5FhCEI0I/AAAAAAAACDs/I7UdORAG2zg/s320/P1000460.JPG" /></a></div>Not long after, they board the bus and head back to the hotel and revitalize with some snacks, ready for their next adventure.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks to Dad and Ah-Kioeuk for taking the buddies on holiday to Indonesia.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-60170608188435917462010-08-07T09:51:00.000-07:002010-08-07T09:51:12.719-07:00Troy at the Motel No TellTroy had heard from his surfer buddies that there was a new place in town called the Motel no tell so he thought he'd check it out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2hmX34RI/AAAAAAAACCA/v1pYAkHlRT4/s1600/IMG_3123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2hmX34RI/AAAAAAAACCA/v1pYAkHlRT4/s400/IMG_3123.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2HZL7QdI/AAAAAAAACBI/Y8rSjM0S2Nk/s1600/IMG_3100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2HZL7QdI/AAAAAAAACBI/Y8rSjM0S2Nk/s640/IMG_3100.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
Troy finds a room full of boards, he makes his way over to look at what Kelly Slater rides. It's a bit shorter than his one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2LUkVf2I/AAAAAAAACBQ/4PXP5uaikTk/s1600/IMG_3103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2LUkVf2I/AAAAAAAACBQ/4PXP5uaikTk/s320/IMG_3103.JPG" /></a></div>Nike he is saddened to discover does not make shoes in his size.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2QGjr2_I/AAAAAAAACBY/CRzs0mNrRN4/s1600/IMG_3108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2QGjr2_I/AAAAAAAACBY/CRzs0mNrRN4/s320/IMG_3108.jpg" /></a></div>Each of the room's has a different theme, he doesn't get much of a chance to look around before he is wrestled by a giant cat who just want's to be friends. Troy has heard this line before and has seen The Lion King so he searches desperately for a chance to escape.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2oUgYxLI/AAAAAAAACCI/tPRE4zoUegw/s1600/IMG_3114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2oUgYxLI/AAAAAAAACCI/tPRE4zoUegw/s320/IMG_3114.jpg" /></a></div>As luck would have it, her ex-boyfriend is none too happy that his lady appears to have taken a shine to Troy and promptly whips away the competition. (He still has feelings for her.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2UzDbotI/AAAAAAAACBg/UUJJqKjE4Lk/s1600/IMG_3109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2UzDbotI/AAAAAAAACBg/UUJJqKjE4Lk/s320/IMG_3109.JPG" /></a></div>Troy is dropped off at the cat pillow. "Let this serve as a warning to you says the ex, these two were not so lucky." Troy is left a little bewildered to be honest but the menacing tone left nothing unclear. He must leave immediately. No problemo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2bc05PyI/AAAAAAAACBw/ERXPsKRKqAM/s1600/IMG_3117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2bc05PyI/AAAAAAAACBw/ERXPsKRKqAM/s320/IMG_3117.JPG" /></a></div>As he looks around him it seems that the room is littered with strange mutated figures. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2YA6P5hI/AAAAAAAACBo/NpWfoDuSKKA/s1600/IMG_3116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2YA6P5hI/AAAAAAAACBo/NpWfoDuSKKA/s320/IMG_3116.JPG" /></a></div>Troy spots the legendary wrestler, the menace of Venice. What happened to you? he asks. "There was a paarty and the next thing I knew I woke up like dis." This place is not what it seems. Troy feels the need the need for a speedy exit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2ePvDzRI/AAAAAAAACB4/uwXpcgS1uFQ/s1600/IMG_3118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEu2ePvDzRI/AAAAAAAACB4/uwXpcgS1uFQ/s320/IMG_3118.JPG" /></a></div>Troy spots the elephant in the room. He uses his charm to negotiate a ride out of this strange place where everything is not as it seems. Does he make it out....... stay tuned.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-20729548221289301162010-07-24T20:52:00.000-07:002010-07-24T20:52:55.831-07:00Leonard in New Zealand Part DeuxLeonard's back. It was only a matter of time before his itchy little feet grew restless. Following a successful stint as chief vintner he embarked upon a journey that was more than he bargained for.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwBRd0lSI/AAAAAAAACAw/FpPhhPxvCF8/s1600/IMG_0328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwBRd0lSI/AAAAAAAACAw/FpPhhPxvCF8/s400/IMG_0328.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">All aboard, Leonard settles in for a busy day of fishing.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv_FF3j7I/AAAAAAAACAo/GGJPNn-yLJM/s1600/IMG_0327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv_FF3j7I/AAAAAAAACAo/GGJPNn-yLJM/s640/IMG_0327.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>He struggles to control the pole and the fishing reel but quitting is not in Leonard's nature so he tries his best.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv8V5KVtI/AAAAAAAACAg/AJssaqpgc8g/s1600/IMG_0326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv8V5KVtI/AAAAAAAACAg/AJssaqpgc8g/s400/IMG_0326.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Less indicative of Leonard's fishing skills, he manages to persuade a roaming crustacean to stop by for a beer. Fast forward an hour or two and it's all Mr. Crustacean can do to make it to the bucket. Leonard steadies him as.... well we'll leave that to your imagination.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwHy3XqTI/AAAAAAAACA4/S-FoRtqlzy0/s1600/DSCF0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwHy3XqTI/AAAAAAAACA4/S-FoRtqlzy0/s400/DSCF0032.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Mr. Crustacean bids a fond farewell as it is past his curfew and the Mrs will be wondering where he's got to. Leonard feeling emboldened by the beer climbs to the top of the life saver and does a rendition of "My heart will go on" (Yes, even FTB's have seen Titanic). The boat suddenly lurches due to a freak gust of wind and Leonard is flung into the air blissfully unaware that he is no longer on the boat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwQqUYO1I/AAAAAAAACBA/9KBq-fDI0yg/s1600/DSCF0299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuwQqUYO1I/AAAAAAAACBA/9KBq-fDI0yg/s400/DSCF0299.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Mr Crustacean fortunately is still in the vicinity and gives him a ride to the nearest shore. Wet and a little bewildered Leonard tries to get his bearings.. He is certainly a long way from home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv4ZUCeII/AAAAAAAACAY/uem0EkXKGyc/s1600/Sams+Snaps+187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEuv4ZUCeII/AAAAAAAACAY/uem0EkXKGyc/s400/Sams+Snaps+187.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>He stumbles along and finds a deserted stretch of sand and lo and behold his favourite thing in the world, a rope swing ! In no time at all Leonard is singing away and back to his happy self, content to just be free.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Sam for the great photos. They are definitely amongst some of my favourites.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-8969887964254035002010-07-17T14:19:00.000-07:002010-07-17T14:19:19.594-07:00Wally in Wales Part 2Wally is back in Part 2. If you missed part 1 <a href="http://coolcrafter.blogspot.com/2010/06/wally-in-wales-part-1.html">click here</a>.. Apologies for the delay in posting things have been a bit hectic. I am excited to report that FTB's have been spotted in China, Hong Kong and Indonesia with another trip to the far east scheduled for September. Troy will be back with tales from the Nike 6.0 no tell mo tell. Stay tuned .....<br />
Big thanks to Sophy for her wonderfully imaginative Wally tale.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF7RVTq69I/AAAAAAAAB9g/Hcvhvuk4RTk/s1600/P5310404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF7RVTq69I/AAAAAAAAB9g/Hcvhvuk4RTk/s320/P5310404.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Wally shows his new friend the cottage in which he is staying however the curious snowman is very eager to explore the land around it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF75aF-i3I/AAAAAAAAB9w/x4S09XMDpY4/s1600/P5310406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF75aF-i3I/AAAAAAAAB9w/x4S09XMDpY4/s400/P5310406.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The emotional events have opened up Wally's appetite. He quickly gobbles down a large bowl of porridge before meeting his friend outside<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF7rfoEYyI/AAAAAAAAB9o/BMpTDHkMn1E/s1600/P5310405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF7rfoEYyI/AAAAAAAAB9o/BMpTDHkMn1E/s400/P5310405.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>The pair begin an arduous uphill hike in high spirits as they admire the brilliant colours of the surrounding nature.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8JDySA6I/AAAAAAAAB94/qY30PiWyZjo/s1600/P5310408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8JDySA6I/AAAAAAAAB94/qY30PiWyZjo/s320/P5310408.JPG" /></a></div>The hike seems to get harder and harder. Wally and the snowman lose eachother in what Sophie has renamed the Thorn Jungle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8X8oVovI/AAAAAAAAB-A/-TRQrYCChDw/s1600/P5310409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8X8oVovI/AAAAAAAAB-A/-TRQrYCChDw/s320/P5310409.JPG" /></a></div>They finally find each other at the top of their uphill struggle. Pausing for breath they admire the Welsh hills and beautiful view.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8mo-_fhI/AAAAAAAAB-I/wZojzoEhztU/s1600/P5310419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF8mo-_fhI/AAAAAAAAB-I/wZojzoEhztU/s320/P5310419.JPG" /></a></div>Seeing as there is plenty of day light left, the pair hitch a car ride and cool down on the pretty Oxswich beach.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbUeIkRYI/AAAAAAAAB_o/kX0LO3__Wzg/s1600/P5310421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbUeIkRYI/AAAAAAAAB_o/kX0LO3__Wzg/s320/P5310421.JPG" /></a></div> Spying the unattended life boat in the distance Wally and his friend hope for a ride but unfortunately the tide is too far out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbizKaA5I/AAAAAAAAB_w/Y6sC_1sdQjo/s1600/P6030471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbizKaA5I/AAAAAAAAB_w/Y6sC_1sdQjo/s320/P6030471.JPG" /></a></div> After arriving further into the mainland a curious rabbit takes a liking to Wally and inspects him to see if he is edible.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbxOTT-sI/AAAAAAAAB_4/90t54gBCwFQ/s1600/P6030473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIbxOTT-sI/AAAAAAAAB_4/90t54gBCwFQ/s320/P6030473.JPG" /></a></div> After taking their leave from the rabbit the pair take a cart ride back home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIciX_hd_I/AAAAAAAACAA/eweCPSar5JM/s1600/P6030486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIciX_hd_I/AAAAAAAACAA/eweCPSar5JM/s320/P6030486.JPG" /></a></div>Wally hops off the ride on the way to rinse off a bit of rabbit dribble with the spray from a nearby waterfall.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIcw5zLmGI/AAAAAAAACAI/Ha45Sm5YBZw/s1600/P6030487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIcw5zLmGI/AAAAAAAACAI/Ha45Sm5YBZw/s320/P6030487.JPG" /></a></div>The awe inspiring water seems to have softened his brain and he asks directions on the way out. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIc-zvmxzI/AAAAAAAACAQ/aNolCHk4eAc/s1600/P6040502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TEIc-zvmxzI/AAAAAAAACAQ/aNolCHk4eAc/s320/P6040502.JPG" /></a></div>Having finally returned from their busy excursion it is already time for the adventurous pair to leave.<br />
A little sadly they say goodbye to the Welsh countryside view though secretly knowing more adventures are bound to come their way.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-50468591861794216352010-07-01T18:24:00.000-07:002010-07-01T18:24:15.059-07:00Ivan in Colorado<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ivan was last seen in Costa Rica but is now enjoying his new home in Colorado. Here he takes time out from his busy schedule to explore his surroundings. Thanks to the Wilcuts for the photos.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1TY-fJbI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/RuUrf7m9ww0/s1600/IMG_1512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1TY-fJbI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/RuUrf7m9ww0/s320/IMG_1512.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Oh the wonders of nature, Ivan stops to admire a dandelion.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1ULNio-I/AAAAAAAAB7g/IZjdICetq9Q/s1600/IMG_1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1ULNio-I/AAAAAAAAB7g/IZjdICetq9Q/s320/IMG_1513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">On closer inspection, Ivan is surprised to discover that the dandelion is almost as big as him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1VaVoauI/AAAAAAAAB7o/2_NPJoEN-Ho/s1600/IMG_1515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1VaVoauI/AAAAAAAAB7o/2_NPJoEN-Ho/s320/IMG_1515.JPG" /><br />
<br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He bumbles along the tow path aimlessly and wonders what he's going to be eating for tea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1YxTcJ_I/AAAAAAAAB8A/VBpePPdKAJ4/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1YxTcJ_I/AAAAAAAAB8A/VBpePPdKAJ4/s400/IMG_1518.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
He spies the river below and decides to take a peek.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1X4_CvCI/AAAAAAAAB74/TmKHO_qpnTo/s1600/IMG_1517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1X4_CvCI/AAAAAAAAB74/TmKHO_qpnTo/s320/IMG_1517.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
He lands on a sign, Spiderman style.<br />
<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF1Z6IyjYI/AAAAAAAAB8I/l-XsVOC14vY/s320/IMG_1519.JPG" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mission accomplished, hmmm it's going to be rather more tricky getting back up again and he doesn't really fancy a swim. Stay tuned to see what happens next.</div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-38746036219866911702010-06-18T10:23:00.000-07:002010-06-18T10:25:37.715-07:00Wally in Wales Part 1Wally one of myall time favourite FTB's is back again in another action packed adventure consisting of two parts. The creative Miss Sophie Teasdale has provided both the story and photo. Check the archives for Wally's previous adventures. Thanks Sophie. Don't forget to comment if you like what you read !<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2SdcmNRI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/U4vtT9BzWF4/s1600/P5280380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2SdcmNRI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/U4vtT9BzWF4/s320/P5280380.JPG" /></a></div>As Wally's old friend, Lilia the fairy bear is away on family visits Wally anticipates a lonely stay in the welsh countryside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2vJONfEI/AAAAAAAAB8g/rsUjCPFRIqU/s1600/P5300384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2vJONfEI/AAAAAAAAB8g/rsUjCPFRIqU/s320/P5300384.JPG" /></a></div> Wally visits Dinefwr Park and Castle. He is impressed at the size of Newton House near the castle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2g00QozI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/x-JHIxni5Wk/s1600/P5300382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2g00QozI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/x-JHIxni5Wk/s320/P5300382.JPG" /></a></div><br />
King of the castle, Wally stands on the mini version of the castle. Impressed, he can't wait to see the real thing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2-B3GEdI/AAAAAAAAB8o/5U-wsuWPlAI/s1600/P5300390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF2-B3GEdI/AAAAAAAAB8o/5U-wsuWPlAI/s320/P5300390.JPG" /></a></div>Eagerly Wally struggles through the field, determined to overcome all sorts of obstacles including bits of snagged sheep's wool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3MU6qgCI/AAAAAAAAB8w/j0ts36t3uzE/s1600/P5300391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3MU6qgCI/AAAAAAAAB8w/j0ts36t3uzE/s320/P5300391.JPG" /></a></div>However he soons gets frustrated and decides it will take too long to get to the castle. He takes a high seat to catch a glimpse and is disappointed to see a ruin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3aopdd_I/AAAAAAAAB84/Vg0qeFSwXxQ/s1600/P5300393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3aopdd_I/AAAAAAAAB84/Vg0qeFSwXxQ/s320/P5300393.JPG" /></a></div>Wally aimed too high as he miscalculated his way down and fell into the local sheep's drinking trough. An unlikely rescuer arrives on the scene.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3qnmk3uI/AAAAAAAAB9A/cp-7bmkDNRo/s1600/P5300394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3qnmk3uI/AAAAAAAAB9A/cp-7bmkDNRo/s320/P5300394.JPG" /></a></div>The observant snowman steers the recovering Wally out of the way of a sticky lump of sheep pooh.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3_EENTDI/AAAAAAAAB9I/9JYXmortC8k/s1600/P5300395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF3_EENTDI/AAAAAAAAB9I/9JYXmortC8k/s320/P5300395.JPG" /></a></div>As an escape from anything sheep they both enjoy a not so slippery slide down the inside of a tree trunk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF4Oa3bLyI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/mYUw0LC-Rz4/s1600/P5300399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF4Oa3bLyI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/mYUw0LC-Rz4/s320/P5300399.JPG" /></a></div>On the way home they marvel at the simple beauty of the forest of waving buttercups in a field.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF4djraV0I/AAAAAAAAB9Y/f3lS0PFnC0E/s1600/P5300402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/TBF4djraV0I/AAAAAAAAB9Y/f3lS0PFnC0E/s320/P5300402.jpg" /></a></div>The pair tuck into a tea time of welsh cakes while getting to know each other. Wally realizes his holiday isn't going to be so lonely after all....Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-85289560785285441192010-05-21T13:52:00.001-07:002010-06-10T10:21:40.663-07:00Introducing Leonard In New Zealand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byn8BN-vI/AAAAAAAAB4w/VbmTMR0WMU8/s1600/P1000165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byn8BN-vI/AAAAAAAAB4w/VbmTMR0WMU8/s640/P1000165.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Leonard finds himself alone in a strange land.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byrubrg8I/AAAAAAAAB44/hRsx1tUNb8M/s1600/P1000167_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byrubrg8I/AAAAAAAAB44/hRsx1tUNb8M/s640/P1000167_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>As he contemplates his surroundings the sun begins to rise. A local to the area asks him if he is in need of a job. "OK, says Leonard." He doesn't really know what awaits him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byvNSEBVI/AAAAAAAAB5A/QcwZ-qA-zzw/s1600/P1000169_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byvNSEBVI/AAAAAAAAB5A/QcwZ-qA-zzw/s640/P1000169_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>He is given a tour of the winery by the owner's dog who despite his demeanor is actually very pleased to have a new employee and potential drinking buddy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byyGliNJI/AAAAAAAAB5I/pbY0tJG3Ezo/s1600/P1000171_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="499" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_byyGliNJI/AAAAAAAAB5I/pbY0tJG3Ezo/s640/P1000171_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>For his first task Leonard must master the art of driving a forklift. Despite his best efforts he cannot man the controls and drive at the same time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_by2YWANSI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/K_6ZVo9-jDw/s1600/P1000174_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S_by2YWANSI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/K_6ZVo9-jDw/s640/P1000174_2.jpg" width="330" /></a></div><br />
He is finally given a more suitable task, the monitoring of sophisticated equipment. Leonard is happy, he still has much to learn but he hopes to have his own vineyard one day.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Sam for the very speedy report of Leonard's arrival. Coming soon a Wally special and updates from Ivan. Keep them coming !!Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-81412962642386248152010-05-15T13:07:00.000-07:002010-05-15T13:07:54.691-07:00Furry Travel Buddy -Troy in Colorado<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75cIHl2HI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/1pukf_we2Bo/s1600/IMG_2006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75cIHl2HI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/1pukf_we2Bo/s320/IMG_2006.JPG" /></a></div>Troy came back from Colorado a while ago and has been nagging me to post his pictures so here we go. One of the stops on this 14 hour road trip was in the Salt Lake Area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75hYO5jxI/AAAAAAAAB3g/n3N4srpG1v4/s1600/IMG_2009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75hYO5jxI/AAAAAAAAB3g/n3N4srpG1v4/s320/IMG_2009.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75lplbFaI/AAAAAAAAB3o/iYpoldZHrYE/s1600/IMG_2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75lplbFaI/AAAAAAAAB3o/iYpoldZHrYE/s320/IMG_2016.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Arriving at the destination Troy takes his spot for the obligatory photo.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75fGnuJ5I/AAAAAAAAB3Y/n8OpKGY1xuc/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75fGnuJ5I/AAAAAAAAB3Y/n8OpKGY1xuc/s320/IMG_2007.JPG" /></a></div>Troy coming from Southern California has never seen snow before and it's not long before he is knee deep in it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75nh-O6oI/AAAAAAAAB3w/VV3QT6NFUtA/s1600/IMG_2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75nh-O6oI/AAAAAAAAB3w/VV3QT6NFUtA/s320/IMG_2019.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Troy does a run and jump and lands on his back.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75r63BRuI/AAAAAAAAB4A/Qx6ZEjzzeXQ/s1600/IMG_2022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75r63BRuI/AAAAAAAAB4A/Qx6ZEjzzeXQ/s320/IMG_2022.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Troy's version of the snow angel.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75w9nxXuI/AAAAAAAAB4I/p2wzarLyIAE/s1600/IMG_2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75w9nxXuI/AAAAAAAAB4I/p2wzarLyIAE/s320/IMG_2024.jpg" /></a></div>All this playing in the snow has left him feeling a bit chilly, he yearns for his surfboard and the feel of sun on his furry body. It is time to hitch a ride home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-7510DKazI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/nXGu56gWWLw/s1600/IMG_2049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-7510DKazI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/nXGu56gWWLw/s320/IMG_2049.JPG" /></a></div>The horse says "Where to Mr ?" but Troy can't seem to remember which direction he came from.He takes a calculated guess and heads towards the blue bit of sky.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75ymlvxUI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/yNWvJhxEqSk/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-75ymlvxUI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/yNWvJhxEqSk/s320/IMG_2051.JPG" /></a></div>Fast forward 5 hours later. The horse has ditched him as Troy was unable to give clear left and right directions and ran out of snacks to feed him. Oh dear, Troy is well and truly lost and he now needs to find an alternative mode of transport.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-7539XvqkI/AAAAAAAAB4g/Tn_zYxWJ-O4/s1600/IMG_2075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-7539XvqkI/AAAAAAAAB4g/Tn_zYxWJ-O4/s320/IMG_2075.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> After making his way on foot through the mountains. He spots a vision in the distance. It has wheels and seat heaters. He is overjoyed now all he needs is his wit and charm to persuade the driver to give him a ride. Luckily for Troy, he is quite persuasive and let's face it doesn't take up that much room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-79ovpiBGI/AAAAAAAAB4o/v3kG70FPtfA/s1600/DSCN5539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S-79ovpiBGI/AAAAAAAAB4o/v3kG70FPtfA/s320/DSCN5539.JPG" /></a></div>It's several hours later when he hears and sees the ocean. He breathes a sigh of relief, he likes to travel but there's nothing like home.<br />
<br />
THE ENDDesiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-16686183670355389672010-04-29T15:37:00.000-07:002010-04-29T15:37:48.949-07:00Wally Learns to FlyA big huge thank you to Miss Sophie Teasdale for her great pictures and story. Wally is an FTB favourite of mine so it's great to see him being active and adventurous. Remember your FTB's need not travel far in order to have an adventure. <br />
<br />
WALLY'S FLYING EXPERIENCE<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jDxCHeyOI/AAAAAAAAB0A/26_dKOwbXwU/s1600/P4280381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jDxCHeyOI/AAAAAAAAB0A/26_dKOwbXwU/s320/P4280381.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wally has come out of his solitary confinement (due to a </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">near drowning experience in a Spanish swimming pool).</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">He is determined to make his way abroad and so hope </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">to avoid airport hassle by learning to fly himself. He decides </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">to practise in his local area.</span> Wally makes his way to a local air field. Planes are too unreliable so he settles for a helicopter of a suitable size.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jF-l3cZnI/AAAAAAAAB1A/D0btqi7wqkM/s1600/P4280382-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jF-l3cZnI/AAAAAAAAB1A/D0btqi7wqkM/s400/P4280382-1.JPG" width="300" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inexperienced but determined he settles down ready for take off.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jEvaaD07I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/GUczquopLqM/s1600/P4280384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jEvaaD07I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/GUczquopLqM/s400/P4280384.JPG" width="300" /> </a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Being inexperienced pays off as the blades start moving just before take-off, Wally is jerked off his precarious seat <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jE9hKNVeI/AAAAAAAAB0g/BhgWlss9MOs/s1600/P4280385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jE9hKNVeI/AAAAAAAAB0g/BhgWlss9MOs/s320/P4280385.JPG" /></a></div>Determined to get off the ground Wally clings on as best as he can just out of reach of the destructive blades just in front of the tail rotar on the helicopter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9oJFAH5iSI/AAAAAAAAB1I/XPZzaXEqWRA/s1600/P4280386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9oJFAH5iSI/AAAAAAAAB1I/XPZzaXEqWRA/s320/P4280386.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Having slowly managed to steady himself Wally nervously balances close to the edge. For a little guy like him the ground is quite a way down. He wonders how long he can stay there, until any means of help is available.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jFgLj-p9I/AAAAAAAAB0w/JTlvMfmk5Zc/s1600/P4280387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jFgLj-p9I/AAAAAAAAB0w/JTlvMfmk5Zc/s320/P4280387.JPG" /></a></div>After a short bumpy ride the untrustworthy helicopter swerves violently into a tree once more throwing its stubborn little passenger off, though thankfully, Wally just about manages to hold onto a branch but is feeling a little dazed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jFvgxjd9I/AAAAAAAAB04/pEDRa9tjcNY/s1600/P4280388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9jFvgxjd9I/AAAAAAAAB04/pEDRa9tjcNY/s320/P4280388.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><div>After waiting and waiting Wally just couldn't hold on anymore. One wrong move was followed by an unnerving free fall....headfirst into a clump of dark foliage. </div><div>With a sinking feeling Wally decided remote controlled helicopters or any flying for that matter, (for now anyway)<span style="white-space: pre;"></span> was just not him. Actually he decided that public transport was a whole lot easier!</div></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-19130723944673746002010-04-22T16:29:00.000-07:002010-04-22T16:29:00.132-07:00Herman discovers his Musical SideHerman the German makes a splendid comeback in this new set of pictures courtesy of Miss Sophy Tyler who also wrote the accompanying story. Big cheer for Sophy. Enjoy and keep them coming !<br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da04WXbUI/AAAAAAAABzY/QoWl3Wf5W6U/s1600/IMG_0210.mod.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da04WXbUI/AAAAAAAABzY/QoWl3Wf5W6U/s320/IMG_0210.mod.JPG" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> Herman decided to go on a musical adventure to find his ideal musical instrument. He started with the flute but seeing as it requires breath power, it was hard for a Herman with no mouth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da14yacfI/AAAAAAAABzg/XWgrzwtR3Zw/s1600/IMG_0211.mod.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da14yacfI/AAAAAAAABzg/XWgrzwtR3Zw/s320/IMG_0211.mod.JPG" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
- So he went to try his hand, or rather his furry legs, at the piano, playing his favourite piece of film music : Chariots of Fire.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da3uFQnMI/AAAAAAAABzo/g4wZxmqjx10/s1600/IMG_0215.mod.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da3uFQnMI/AAAAAAAABzo/g4wZxmqjx10/s320/IMG_0215.mod.JPG" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Then he saw something that really interested him - a guitar! Could it get any better?<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da4bX6DsI/AAAAAAAABzw/HWZ5ea6y2mY/s1600/IMG_0219.mod.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da4bX6DsI/AAAAAAAABzw/HWZ5ea6y2mY/s320/IMG_0219.mod.JPG" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Apparently it could as then he found a Herman-sized guitar!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da6djrTZI/AAAAAAAABz4/bGP2CalQz6g/s1600/IMG_0224.mod.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S9Da6djrTZI/AAAAAAAABz4/bGP2CalQz6g/s320/IMG_0224.mod.JPG" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> Maybe he was born to be a hippie-rock-guitarist as he even has the flowery guitar-strap and colourful headband to complete the look!</div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-13994447709395687802010-04-15T11:08:00.000-07:002010-04-15T11:08:20.080-07:00Stanley goes to Turkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dRulCqjtI/AAAAAAAAByQ/9i4qQOlh-Z0/s1600/DSCF2766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dRulCqjtI/AAAAAAAAByQ/9i4qQOlh-Z0/s320/DSCF2766.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Stanley on the tourist trail in Istanbul.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dR8p_MfPI/AAAAAAAAByY/x-36DyjHksw/s1600/DSCF2776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dR8p_MfPI/AAAAAAAAByY/x-36DyjHksw/s320/DSCF2776.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">He marvels at the workmanship.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSKmmP-PI/AAAAAAAAByg/4bA73_RVOiE/s1600/DSCF2779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSKmmP-PI/AAAAAAAAByg/4bA73_RVOiE/s320/DSCF2779.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">He wonders what food is on offer as he's feeling peckish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSXsNOHuI/AAAAAAAAByo/xovQXwTl9Ps/s1600/DSCF2809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSXsNOHuI/AAAAAAAAByo/xovQXwTl9Ps/s320/DSCF2809.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The vendor can't hear what Stanley is saying so picks him up. Stanley is not amused.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSlf5LK5I/AAAAAAAAByw/ZmuleG_flos/s1600/DSCF2827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSlf5LK5I/AAAAAAAAByw/ZmuleG_flos/s320/DSCF2827.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Something is lost in translation and Stanley gets dropped into his idea of hell, confined space and a bunch of kittens."Not the face, he pleads." Stanley worries that he won't survive to tell the tale.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSyWdNPYI/AAAAAAAABy4/O4clsRw-f_Y/s1600/DSCF2854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dSyWdNPYI/AAAAAAAABy4/O4clsRw-f_Y/s320/DSCF2854.JPG" /></a></div>A passerby hears his pitiful moan and tosses him into relative safety away from kitty claws. Stanley is momentarily relieved but what is he doing in a bowl ?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dS_O7twaI/AAAAAAAABzA/pSvWWSEzwZ8/s1600/DSCF2882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S8dS_O7twaI/AAAAAAAABzA/pSvWWSEzwZ8/s320/DSCF2882.JPG" /></a></div>Will Stanley make it home ? or is he destined to a life at sea. Watch to see what lies in store for Stanley.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Taman for documenting the trip and keeping the FTB spirit alive. Got a picture ? Send me an email and I'll share them with the family.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-19297785208986799342010-02-28T11:59:00.000-08:002010-02-28T11:59:55.157-08:00Big in JapanIt's been too long since the last post but it was worth the wait. Felix accompanied Steven to Japan on a work trip and by the looks of things had a whale of a time. If you have been storing up those FTB pics send me an email so I can share them with the FTB family. Enjoy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHRE9mZ-I/AAAAAAAABrQ/0WFHhKjpsIw/s1600-h/IMG_0359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHRE9mZ-I/AAAAAAAABrQ/0WFHhKjpsIw/s320/IMG_0359.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Riding the bullet train.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rGmj4h3RI/AAAAAAAABqw/z7QINK4vPzE/s1600-h/DSC00232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rGmj4h3RI/AAAAAAAABqw/z7QINK4vPzE/s320/DSC00232.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A bemused business man looks on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rG2eWt4GI/AAAAAAAABq4/W14BAeSskeQ/s1600-h/DSC00236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rG2eWt4GI/AAAAAAAABq4/W14BAeSskeQ/s320/DSC00236.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Felix's whining finally results in a giant ice cream. He likes his snacks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHh5bUETI/AAAAAAAABrg/QNbY9NgTGek/s1600-h/IMG_0404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHh5bUETI/AAAAAAAABrg/QNbY9NgTGek/s320/IMG_0404.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Felix visits a distant cousin and admires his outfit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHpnUZ2aI/AAAAAAAABro/4vY8dcecgX4/s1600-h/IMG_0407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHpnUZ2aI/AAAAAAAABro/4vY8dcecgX4/s320/IMG_0407.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Family, he had to visit Luther or else he would be persona non grata in Japan forever more. Luther shows him a few dance moves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHY-Ibv-I/AAAAAAAABrY/72OvXCkTGnA/s1600-h/IMG_0388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rHY-Ibv-I/AAAAAAAABrY/72OvXCkTGnA/s320/IMG_0388.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A busy temple at rush hour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rIEUuMPzI/AAAAAAAABr4/RV22dU5Aqd8/s1600-h/DSC00364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rIEUuMPzI/AAAAAAAABr4/RV22dU5Aqd8/s320/DSC00364.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Talk to the hand" says Buddha. Felix tries his luck.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rINGXhsmI/AAAAAAAABsA/Wzt2cKWvsJ0/s1600-h/DSC00412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rINGXhsmI/AAAAAAAABsA/Wzt2cKWvsJ0/s320/DSC00412.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Felix gets his wish, more food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rIcBTMAXI/AAAAAAAABsI/vtEap2DLMn0/s1600-h/DSC00449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rIcBTMAXI/AAAAAAAABsI/vtEap2DLMn0/s320/DSC00449.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And to work it off, Felix goes for a stroll and takes a nap away from the crowds.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rH5sg36vI/AAAAAAAABrw/u1fsRbdfjC4/s1600-h/DSC00285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/S4rH5sg36vI/AAAAAAAABrw/u1fsRbdfjC4/s320/DSC00285.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time flies when you are having fun and Felix boards the plane back to Canada. </div>Big thanks to Steven for the detailed documenting of the trip, I appreciate it.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-76959232375799500032009-12-08T14:43:00.000-08:002009-12-08T14:43:40.019-08:00Conan in MississippiConan is a recent addition to the furry travel buddy family. He's quite fearless as demonstrated by his propensity to stand on his head and befriend large animals. Thanks to Amanda for her great pictures.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7Uzvtk8dI/AAAAAAAABjw/zEzPF0BFuIA/s1600-h/IMG_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" er="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7Uzvtk8dI/AAAAAAAABjw/zEzPF0BFuIA/s320/IMG_0026.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Conan poses outside the Oxford City Hall, Mississippi.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7UtaHWhlI/AAAAAAAABjY/CMbKUnUuHSQ/s1600-h/conan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" er="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7UtaHWhlI/AAAAAAAABjY/CMbKUnUuHSQ/s320/conan.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Conan used to be in the SAS so he can't help himself when he sees suitable camoflage. William Faulkner in the background is not impressed.<br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7UusaN9UI/AAAAAAAABjg/JDspOVV79RA/s1600-h/conan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" er="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7UusaN9UI/AAAAAAAABjg/JDspOVV79RA/s320/conan2.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sight seeing can be tiring work, so he hitches a ride with his buddy who unlike some pets decides not to bite his head off and listens attentively to Conan's waffling.<br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7Uv9nZWFI/AAAAAAAABjo/r4AWCbutq8k/s1600-h/conan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" er="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sx7Uv9nZWFI/AAAAAAAABjo/r4AWCbutq8k/s320/conan3.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Last stop sushi, Conan's favourite stop of the day. California rolls are his favourite.<br />
</div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-84336945759438332632009-10-16T16:20:00.000-07:002009-10-16T16:22:53.640-07:00Sonny goes to watch baseball<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks to Heidi for taking Sonny to his first (and probably last) baseball game. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sonny arrives at the Angel's Stadium and feels small in comparison.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-LRNRPEI/AAAAAAAABbg/6R6OJ-opAIw/s1600-h/DSCN7407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-LRNRPEI/AAAAAAAABbg/6R6OJ-opAIw/s320/DSCN7407.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sonny feels like he stands out but red doesn't really suit him.<br />
</span><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-Plv6oLI/AAAAAAAABbo/paiKFd5XM-U/s320/DSCN7403.JPG" /></span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">To steady his nerves before his first game he heads off to get a beer.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-UmSJ1zI/AAAAAAAABbw/KUKPPNfM_6I/s1600-h/DSCN7396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-UmSJ1zI/AAAAAAAABbw/KUKPPNfM_6I/s320/DSCN7396.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The lights from the cameras are blinding as the players take to the field. Sonny starts to fade a little.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-Z67q9qI/AAAAAAAABb4/Z45MMkO4bkM/s1600/DSCN7405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-Z67q9qI/AAAAAAAABb4/Z45MMkO4bkM/s320/DSCN7405.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">His mind starts to wonder. Isn't Glee Club on tonight he thinks. It's his favourite show, he hopes someone Tivo's it.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-emROkOI/AAAAAAAABcA/sXSX4DC4-WE/s1600/DSCN7397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-emROkOI/AAAAAAAABcA/sXSX4DC4-WE/s320/DSCN7397.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-oo-GWZI/AAAAAAAABcI/wh8RH-COxZo/s1600/DSCN7399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-oo-GWZI/AAAAAAAABcI/wh8RH-COxZo/s320/DSCN7399.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Ss4-oo-GWZI/AAAAAAAABcI/wh8RH-COxZo/s1600-h/DSCN7399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He must have dozed off and is rudely awoken by a lot of cheering. The red team won, hurray and more importantly Sonny gets to go home. He realises he prefers tennis. (There's no pleasing some FTB's!)<br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Still, he's had a fairly relaxing time, so he can't complain.<br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">If you have some FTB pics you'd like to share be sure to drop me an email. Thanks :)<br />
</div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-61921920781426177382009-09-28T15:33:00.000-07:002009-09-28T15:34:13.184-07:00Wade in LondonWade has had a busy year and this Summer was no exception. He managed to squeeze in a visit to The Tower of London and Hampton Court. Here's his story.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752704079984690" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Srbuj108eDI/AAAAAAAABWE/iSXEncvGn6o/s400/P1020030.jpg" style="display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" />Hampton Court is so big Wade can barely fit it all in. Still you get the idea.<br />
</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbucQEzYpI/AAAAAAAABV8/5PBcBe4PFe0/s1600-h/P1010993.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752573686866578" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbucQEzYpI/AAAAAAAABV8/5PBcBe4PFe0/s400/P1010993.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">He glances at the clock. Is that the time already ? He starts to worry, there's so much to see and his legs, well they are short, so he can only go so fast.<br />
</div><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbubyjtPMI/AAAAAAAABV0/iJJxv0WT7Kw/s1600-h/P1010973.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752565763423426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbubyjtPMI/AAAAAAAABV0/iJJxv0WT7Kw/s400/P1010973.jpg" style="display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Now, if his legs were as long as the chap in the picture, he could fit the maze in. Still, he likes the trimmed bushes they remind him of an upturned ice-cream cone surrounded by lollipops.<br />
</div><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Srbubk66mqI/AAAAAAAABVs/b8OOx5tYw80/s1600-h/P1010972.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752562102672034" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Srbubk66mqI/AAAAAAAABVs/b8OOx5tYw80/s400/P1010972.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Wade stops to admire the facade. Those tudors knew how to build. He wonders how many cups of tea and biscuits were consumed during the build.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbubE-HUJI/AAAAAAAABVk/AWGXIqS9tbE/s1600-h/P1010944.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752553526153362" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbubE-HUJI/AAAAAAAABVk/AWGXIqS9tbE/s400/P1010944.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Praise be, Wade gets a temporary reprieve and is given a walking tour of the rest of Hampton Court. Now he's making progress. <br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: orange;">Wade at the Tower of London</span></strong><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuainESNI/AAAAAAAABVc/uaNQOKVja4Y/s1600-h/P1010928.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752544302680274" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuainESNI/AAAAAAAABVc/uaNQOKVja4Y/s400/P1010928.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Wade's feet hadn't quite recovered from his epic adventure at Hampton Court but he tries to keep his chin up.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuDaI1juI/AAAAAAAABVU/BxCC8tQ14Uc/s1600-h/P1010913.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752146891411170" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuDaI1juI/AAAAAAAABVU/BxCC8tQ14Uc/s400/P1010913.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
This entrance doesn't look too promising as there's water on the other side. He decides to give it a miss.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuC4U2SVI/AAAAAAAABVM/nUsJ6m6fCGY/s1600-h/P1010906.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752137814985042" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuC4U2SVI/AAAAAAAABVM/nUsJ6m6fCGY/s400/P1010906.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Wade heard about big black birds from his cousin Ivan who was caught by one. Legend has it that these birds can't fly. Still, Wade keeps his distance, he doesn't like flapping wings and who can blame him ?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuCSgCS8I/AAAAAAAABVE/woWxuH-eb4I/s1600-h/P1010903.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752127661362114" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuCSgCS8I/AAAAAAAABVE/woWxuH-eb4I/s400/P1010903.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Classic tourist shot, Wade is all smiles with Tower Bridge in the background. He doesn't like to get too close to the water though.<br />
</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuB5vFzMI/AAAAAAAABU8/Wc4bXOWznL0/s1600-h/P1010895-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752121013619906" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuB5vFzMI/AAAAAAAABU8/Wc4bXOWznL0/s400/P1010895-1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
Unlike Hampton Court, The Tower served as a prison as well as a fortress hence the rather small windows. Perfectly sized for Wade mind you.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuBabsNHI/AAAAAAAABU0/1ycjZX5xPA4/s1600-h/P1010893-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383752112610751602" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrbuBabsNHI/AAAAAAAABU0/1ycjZX5xPA4/s400/P1010893-1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
A parting shot before going home, Wade really enjoyed his visits and feels most knowledgeable.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Ciara for her lovely photos. I love getting updates on the FTB's so don't be shy. Even if they have just been keeping you company on the sofa, email a pic.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-27342694386889499392009-09-24T09:38:00.000-07:002009-09-24T09:38:30.169-07:00Marlene Part Deux Croatia and Greece<div style="text-align: center;">As promised this is Marlene in Greece and Croatia. As part of her cruise she stopped off at various points and here's what happened. Don't forget to check out my new <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrufydUJ8XI/AAAAAAAABYc/6qILMvMhWD8/s1600-h/web42.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.imustdraw.blogspot.com">blog.</a><br /><br />Don't be shy leave a comment, thanks.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrufydUJ8XI/AAAAAAAABYc/6qILMvMhWD8/s1600-h/web42.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrufydUJ8XI/AAAAAAAABYc/6qILMvMhWD8/s400/web42.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385073468663001458" border="0" /></a><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYXvNustI/AAAAAAAABRI/LgWaBea2KTk/s1600-h/DSC00834.JPG"><br /></a><p align="center">Marlene surveys the boats in Greece. So small compared to the big one she just came off. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYXbowCeI/AAAAAAAABRA/45IK3vdl7rA/s1600-h/DSC00815.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377746958380173794" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYXbowCeI/AAAAAAAABRA/45IK3vdl7rA/s400/DSC00815.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYXbowCeI/AAAAAAAABRA/45IK3vdl7rA/s1600-h/DSC00815.JPG"><br /></a><p align="center">Marlene poses for the camera in front of a scenic view. Its hard being an FTB celebrity sometimes but its her job.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYW2c5itI/AAAAAAAABQ4/654IRD9wSpI/s1600-h/DSC00730.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377746948398353106" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYW2c5itI/AAAAAAAABQ4/654IRD9wSpI/s400/DSC00730.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /></a><p align="center">The indignity of it all ! A ball lands on her sun lounger and catapaults her into the sand. It's a long climb to get back on top.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYWWa0CzI/AAAAAAAABQw/SXwZNK8qMcE/s1600-h/DSC00725.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377746939799669554" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGYWWa0CzI/AAAAAAAABQw/SXwZNK8qMcE/s400/DSC00725.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a><p align="center"> Victorious view from the Sun Lounger.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGVAUpMv-I/AAAAAAAABQo/74EViy7EB94/s1600-h/DSC00670.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377743262831132642" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGVAUpMv-I/AAAAAAAABQo/74EViy7EB94/s400/DSC00670.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is Marlene in Croatia. She doesn't know what these men are doing but they are taking it very seriously.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_6aH9II/AAAAAAAABQg/jZNL0eI8rN8/s1600-h/DSC00657.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377743255788582018" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_6aH9II/AAAAAAAABQg/jZNL0eI8rN8/s400/DSC00657.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a><p align="center">There are a lot of tourists taking photos still Marlene is clueless as to why.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_l5ZDaI/AAAAAAAABQY/SM--JFe0wcE/s1600-h/DSC00447.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377743250282581410" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_l5ZDaI/AAAAAAAABQY/SM--JFe0wcE/s400/DSC00447.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a><p align="center">Marlene takes a break and views the landscape below.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_LNSUSI/AAAAAAAABQQ/4Fkx5CktSYE/s1600-h/DSC00448.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377743243118268706" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU_LNSUSI/AAAAAAAABQQ/4Fkx5CktSYE/s400/DSC00448.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a><p align="center">She loses track of time as she takes an unplanned nap. She is also sun burnt and isn't that her cruise ship ?<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU-l1b3VI/AAAAAAAABQI/ea-CE0PppMk/s1600-h/DSC00879.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377743233086119250" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SqGU-l1b3VI/AAAAAAAABQI/ea-CE0PppMk/s400/DSC00879.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a><p align="center">Marlene realises that she is stuck in Dubrovnik and doesn't speak the language. How will she ever get home ? TBC</p><br /><p align="center">Thanks to Uncle Richard for the photos.<br /></p>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-31254849552815848252009-09-22T10:21:00.000-07:002009-09-22T11:10:18.050-07:00Sky, Constance and Brenda in SpainThe FTB's are back in force. So many blogs to publish. Apologies for the delay if you've emailed photos. The flip flop photo below has got to be one of my favourite FTB pics ever. I love it, so thank you Emily for your great photos. A side project which is in very early stages is Furry Travel Buddies - The Story so Far. A colour photo book in which the best photos of the last year and a half will be featured. It make take a while but that's the plan. I hope everyone had a great Summer and here's to Winter.<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkQl_4qS4I/AAAAAAAABYM/3bq_TLalSMk/s1600-h/Javea+Aug+2009+004.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384343786673863186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkIJYFG-hI/AAAAAAAABYE/WWfy7hF4OCI/s400/Javea+2+Aug+2009+001.JPG" border="0" /> Constance, Brenda and Sky arrive in style ready for their holiday in Spain.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384343635659384754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkIAlgc57I/AAAAAAAABX8/qVwMlIuRg_o/s400/Javea+Aug+2009+001.JPG" border="0" /> At the private pool, Brenda catches up on some tanning with SPF protection obviously. Meanwhile Constance and Sky drift aimlessly on a Boogie Board.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384343627564156754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkIAHWZh1I/AAAAAAAABX0/iRjUyc6dNbo/s400/Javea+Aug+2009+002.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>Sky and Constance get into an argument about holding the leash and Constance falls in while jostling for more control.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384343604998424722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkH-zSTyJI/AAAAAAAABXk/FJcO9URqtZs/s400/Javea+Aug+2009+004.JPG" border="0" />Its Brenda to the rescue, ever inventive she jet-skis on a flip flop to save Constance who is rapidly sinking.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384353410492353634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkQ5jmPTGI/AAAAAAAABYU/8jeThVsRhiI/s400/Javea+Aug+2009+003.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>Constance is in shock after her recent plunge, but more distressing is the damage to her hair do! Brenda knows how to get rid of frizz and sets about damage control.<br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkH-Jq_IlI/AAAAAAAABXc/YPNyM8uDwy4/s1600-h/Javea+Aug+2009+018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384343593827639890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SrkH-Jq_IlI/AAAAAAAABXc/YPNyM8uDwy4/s400/Javea+Aug+2009+018.JPG" border="0" /></a> The girls take a breather after the morning's crazy events and decide to stay on dry land for now.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-90442747113463248762009-08-25T13:14:00.000-07:002009-08-25T13:14:00.189-07:00Troy at the US OpenTroy who as you know is a surf afficionado couldn't miss out on the action at the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach. With 12ft waves and with several surf legends showing their tricks. He had a fabulous time even though it was really, really hot.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGnO6A5cI/AAAAAAAABFQ/FYHeXf774_8/s1600-h/IMG_0229.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365835120865502658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGnO6A5cI/AAAAAAAABFQ/FYHeXf774_8/s400/IMG_0229.JPG" border="0" /></a> Troy watches Rob Machado on one of those big waves.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGm88iQkI/AAAAAAAABFI/2HTEr19ckf0/s1600-h/IMG_0171.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365835116044239426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGm88iQkI/AAAAAAAABFI/2HTEr19ckf0/s400/IMG_0171.JPG" border="0" /></a> Here Troy is able to see what Rob look like up close and personal in a screen printined collage .<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGmgEufII/AAAAAAAABFA/xI0VBw4i538/s1600-h/IMG_0168.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365835108293966978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SndGmgEufII/AAAAAAAABFA/xI0VBw4i538/s400/IMG_0168.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Behind the scenes he drops in to see how surfboards are shaped. In the background Bill Stewart reveals secrets of this mysterious craft.<br />As I mentioned earlier, it was super hot and Troy having watched the entire Men's Surf contest won by local Brett Simpson and the Master's Event went home for some R&R.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-57261509010086713162009-08-13T15:13:00.000-07:002009-08-13T15:45:18.567-07:00Stanley in AmsterdamStanley who we last saw some months back with some stylish knitted items is back again. It's always so reassuring to hear from a furry travel buddy so a big thank you to Tamaan for her wonderful pics.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRc_K9hZI/AAAAAAAABGQ/UEMIomsxldU/s1600-h/067.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRc_K9hZI/AAAAAAAABGQ/UEMIomsxldU/s400/067.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369576582912247186" border="0" /></a>Stanley takes to the skies for his latest adventure. The journey is so quick he barely has time for a nap before he's buckling up for the landing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRd9G3hYI/AAAAAAAABGY/YUtPCSaUZLo/s1600-h/015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRd9G3hYI/AAAAAAAABGY/YUtPCSaUZLo/s400/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369576599538075010" border="0" /></a>Upon landing there's not a taxi in sight but what there are a lot of, are bicycles, hundreds of them Stanley can hardly stand still for a minute without placing himself in bodily danger.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRfJa6OEI/AAAAAAAABGg/ltMDP5H7Z1Q/s1600-h/024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRfJa6OEI/AAAAAAAABGg/ltMDP5H7Z1Q/s400/024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369576620023232578" border="0" /></a>There's nothing for it, he hitches a ride and heads downtown in search of his accommodation.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRgp1OpiI/AAAAAAAABGw/CUK7A1WNU5w/s1600-h/017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRgp1OpiI/AAAAAAAABGw/CUK7A1WNU5w/s400/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369576645903427106" border="0" /></a>His human cycling driver informs Stanley that he has arrived at his destination. Stanley looks around. "How can this be ? " Stanley can only see water and nothing that resembles a hotel. Maybe he thinks, I'm supposed to be on that barge. What follows next is nothing short of reckless.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSS917zRLI/AAAAAAAABG4/Lu1yB4U2B58/s1600-h/034.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSS917zRLI/AAAAAAAABG4/Lu1yB4U2B58/s400/034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369578246880052402" border="0" /></a>He jumps......and he misses landing on the tiniest of ledges which is all that stands between him and a watery end. Overcome by the realisation that he is in a very sorry predicament, he lies there thinking negative thoughts. Not for long........<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRf8Mb-WI/AAAAAAAABGo/HlH4oZWin4k/s1600-h/016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SoSRf8Mb-WI/AAAAAAAABGo/HlH4oZWin4k/s400/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369576633652738402" border="0" /></a>Lucky for him a hand from a passing barge scoops him up from the precarious precipice and informs him that he is just in time for dessert. Stanley needless to say perks up from his traumatic state when handed an ice cream. He is a comfort eater after all. Nothing can possibly be that bad if there's ice-cream.Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-78770573196673599302009-08-07T15:25:00.000-07:002009-08-07T15:26:48.385-07:00Marlene's Cruise Ship AlbumThere were so many photos to choose from for this post. I think they will be strong contenders for the 2010 calendar. As I explained in the newsletter my dad had had technical difficulties when it came to photographing Marlene on his overseas trips so upon learning that half the family were going on a cruise I cheekily asked Uncle Richard if he wouldn't mind taking a few snaps and I wasn't disappointed. Apparently other family members also did their part to remind him to take Marlene on their tours so thanks to Aunt's Desiree and Sooi.<br />Without further ado, here are a fraction of the pics.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SnynUzaHZsI/AAAAAAAABGA/A-rQPjxG1I8/s1600-h/web5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SnynUzaHZsI/AAAAAAAABGA/A-rQPjxG1I8/s400/web5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367348831757756098" border="0" /></a>Marlene's travel companions included some Canadians and Brits.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym2R1QmpI/AAAAAAAABFw/6OKH6qi2gZ0/s1600-h/web12.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym2R1QmpI/AAAAAAAABFw/6OKH6qi2gZ0/s400/web12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367348307348724370" border="0" /></a>Marlene's mode of transport for the vacation. A rather large cruise ship.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym1cAXI9I/AAAAAAAABFY/1iGG9Lm_4Qc/s1600-h/web4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym1cAXI9I/AAAAAAAABFY/1iGG9Lm_4Qc/s400/web4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367348292899775442" border="0" /></a>First stop Venice. Marlene gets her first taste of living at sea.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym2LZnWLI/AAAAAAAABFo/o0oYI_9dRWA/s1600-h/web10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym2LZnWLI/AAAAAAAABFo/o0oYI_9dRWA/s400/web10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367348305622161586" border="0" /></a>No trip to Venice would be complete without visiting Murano where a lot of glass is made. Notice the area is under surveillance but Marlene manages to bypass security and blend with the ornaments.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym12KruVI/AAAAAAAABFg/mQrmLPWY2mA/s1600-h/web6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Snym12KruVI/AAAAAAAABFg/mQrmLPWY2mA/s400/web6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367348299922389330" border="0" /></a>This rather impressive glass sculpture is made entirely of handblown glass. Marlene is seen here hoping that the sculpture is securely anchored to something.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SnypLgjqVEI/AAAAAAAABGI/ueFQeMvqjQU/s1600-h/web14.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SnypLgjqVEI/AAAAAAAABGI/ueFQeMvqjQU/s400/web14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367350871101953090" border="0" /></a>After all the day's activity its back to the ship for a beverage and a nap.<br />Stay tuned for part 2 Croatia and Greece coming soon.<br /></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-34113853957671622932009-07-27T16:14:00.001-07:002009-07-27T16:40:52.185-07:00Ivan's adventure in Big BearIvan has wasted no time since his trip to Costa Rica and spent a lovely weekend in Big Bear, CA.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm42nNLgYyI/AAAAAAAABE4/dRxU1-V_U0Q/s1600-h/IMG_0744.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363284253425558306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm42nNLgYyI/AAAAAAAABE4/dRxU1-V_U0Q/s400/IMG_0744.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ivan is relieved to see the vacancy sign at Eagle's Nest.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41RJw9_dI/AAAAAAAABEg/uGA9hTBBcvQ/s1600-h/IMG_0693.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282775040196050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41RJw9_dI/AAAAAAAABEg/uGA9hTBBcvQ/s400/IMG_0693.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ivan assumes the co-pilot position in the boat. He isn't all that helpful, seeing as he's facing the wrong way but his owners humor him.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41HeIlvoI/AAAAAAAABEY/exoQCD4_ddM/s1600-h/IMG_0708.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282608709287554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41HeIlvoI/AAAAAAAABEY/exoQCD4_ddM/s400/IMG_0708.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ivan realises that he needs to be facing outwards and assumes the responsability of sat nav reporting any obstacles. Dan meanwhile takes charge of the wheel.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41G8OHk6I/AAAAAAAABEQ/vklme-3J1LI/s1600-h/IMG_0724.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282599605670818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41G8OHk6I/AAAAAAAABEQ/vklme-3J1LI/s400/IMG_0724.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Ivan hurls himself off the boat so that they can moor it. Despite his size he's a dab hand at tying knots.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41GZTN0eI/AAAAAAAABEI/g1mLiix_wgw/s1600-h/IMG_0741.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282590231810530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41GZTN0eI/AAAAAAAABEI/g1mLiix_wgw/s400/IMG_0741.JPG" border="0" /></a> Back at the Eagles Nest, Ivan befriends a miniature horse who can relate to his size issues.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41F9esSpI/AAAAAAAABEA/pPl0u7OPthQ/s1600-h/IMG_0743.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282582763752082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41F9esSpI/AAAAAAAABEA/pPl0u7OPthQ/s400/IMG_0743.JPG" border="0" /></a> The conversation is abruptly ended when an eagle swoops and mistakes Ivan for a tasty dinner. (Ivan meanwhile is terrified as he's not good with heights in the best of circumstances let alone while suspended from the beak of a giant eagle.)<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363282778493993506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/Sm41RWoawiI/AAAAAAAABEo/7Qfl3kKMKVE/s400/IMG_0706.JPG" border="0" /> Ivan has the narrowest of escapes and the eagle deciding that felt isn't all that tasty drops him in the ocean and as luck would have it he lands in the same spot he began the day in, minus the driver. It's going to be a long night..........</div><div></div><div>Thanks to Angel and Dan for keeping the FTB spirit alive and well. More FTB action from Troy, Marlene and Chauncey. </div></div></div></div></div></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7366374228887864941.post-70328147104149803972009-07-06T12:35:00.000-07:002009-07-06T13:04:57.593-07:00Ivan in Costa Rica<div align="center">Introducing Ivan, one of the newest members of the FTB clan. He recently took a trip to Costa Rica with his owners Angel and Dan. The local landscape suited him and as you will see he's very photogenic and not afraid to get close to nature.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTTwyY1AI/AAAAAAAABDg/3oTpHo9fUiE/s1600-h/IMG_0561.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434505875805186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTTwyY1AI/AAAAAAAABDg/3oTpHo9fUiE/s400/IMG_0561.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center"></a></p><p align="center">Ivan is packed up securely but he pops out for a better look.<br /><br /><br /></p><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTTQ5zeVI/AAAAAAAABDY/h9wbIY78yPk/s1600-h/IMG_0557.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434497316976978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTTQ5zeVI/AAAAAAAABDY/h9wbIY78yPk/s400/IMG_0557.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ivan waits in the queue to check in for his flight.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434268663974002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTF9GriHI/AAAAAAAABDI/6kuv4849HLE/s400/IMG_0546.JPG" border="0" /> Flight over, he arrives in Costa Rica ready for his adventure.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434495449063810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTTJ8dYYI/AAAAAAAABDQ/hWMqm4h6az4/s400/IMG_0549.JPG" border="0" /> From his lofted position he is able to view all the shops in the mall. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355438339785634978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJWy7NuNKI/AAAAAAAABDo/k9Jq_80YdLA/s400/IMG_0329.JPG" border="0" />Ivan makes his first friend in Costa Rica.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355438344418924610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJWzMeYmEI/AAAAAAAABDw/y8pTma3YMdU/s400/IMG_0326.JPG" border="0" /> </div><div align="center"><u><span style="color:#0000ff;"></span></u>Ivan is waning in the heat and starts looking for some shelter.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTFWEfzkI/AAAAAAAABDA/GwLbYDFy0iQ/s1600-h/IMG_0518.JPG"><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434258185834050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTFWEfzkI/AAAAAAAABDA/GwLbYDFy0iQ/s400/IMG_0518.JPG" border="0" /><br /></a>Ivan finds a similarly coloured plant to pose against. It looks like a delicate umbrella which provides a little shade.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTE7haQUI/AAAAAAAABC4/Y0FVqdpBN_8/s1600-h/IMG_0397.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355434251059347778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTE7haQUI/AAAAAAAABC4/Y0FVqdpBN_8/s400/IMG_0397.JPG" border="0" /></a>Time to take a break and where better than the biggest leaf* in the world, out of the sun Ivan is very content. (*not really but it looks really big)</div><br /><div>Thanks to Angel and Dan for the great pictures. I look forward to more Ivan adventures. Coming soon Chauncey's Travel's around the US, Wilbur in Happy Valley and hopefully Hans in India. Stay tuned.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTE363yYI/AAAAAAAABCw/L6oO4ppwNls/s1600-h/IMG_0329.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TjfncGIuZ8U/SlJTEvIsiLI/AAAAAAAABCo/n9dnEbQADCE/s1600-h/IMG_0326.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Desiree B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10847278872767226855noreply@blogger.com0