Wednesday, April 29, 2009

THANK YOU TO ALL

Welcome home to all!
Thank you to all involved, Tumut High staff, Blakeney Millar Foundation Trustees and travelling teachers for giving our son this most wonderful, once in a life time experience! The stories are fascinating and just keep on coming as I am sure they will for weeks if not years.
Thank you again
Catherine and Rodney Anderson

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

To all -----------Tumut High Europe 2009

Dear Tumut Travellers,
As I write this you will be enroute home. We wish you all godspeed for that safe arrival and know that you will be welcomed by your awaiting families and communities with enthusiasm and relief. Many in the community have watched and listened and read with interest your activities while away. We at Blakeney Millar Foundation trust that this experience has offered each of you some delights, some special experiences and some time for insights about the world ,her history and your future possibilities as the global citizens you are.
We are very proud of you all, and look forward to hearing of your time away. We also thank as ever the leadership and fellowship offered to you by the trip leaders, your teachers, especially Ms Stroud on this occasion. The care offered to you all by the very fine teachers accompanying you is integral to the success of this project.
We are confident that Mrs Blakeney Millar would endorse this project as meeting the aspirations in her bequest for innovation in education. It is my hope that we as trustees and certainly as parents and community cannot even yet imagine what might be the long term results from the collective appetites inspired by this special community opportunity here in Tumut.
Yours sincerely,
Jenelle Becker -Chairman -Blakeney Millar Foundation

Monday, April 27, 2009

Hayley and Chris

Hi Hayley and Chris. It's Lori. You might not get this message before you get home but I thought I would send you one last one to wish you a safe trip home. Ryan came out to annoy me today. We played Canasta then went to miniball. Mum forgot that we had a bye but she stayed and helped in the canteen anyway. Because we were at miniball we missed you on the radio Chris. Sorry! I'm very excited about having our 2 french billets on Wednesday. We might show them around Tumut and maybe take them up the dam for drive to see some kangaroos and emus. I think they'd like that. Did you see any animals in France or Italy? I've had fun sleeping in your bed and Amy is coming out for the day tomorrow to play. Love you both heaps and can't wait to see you in 2 sleeps.
Lori xx
Hi Lisa

Got your e-mail. Your report was great. We will tune in tomorrow to listen to the Community Radio report, just like we have every day.

Melinda - Lisa's mum

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Hi Chris .Your trip is quickly coming to an end. Lisa did a lovely report on ANZAC day service. It was great to just watch it on the TV knowing you all were there, so I can only imagine what it would have been like to have actually been there. We have had lots of rain over the weekend and it has turned cold. Bulldogs won yesterday. Enjoy the last couple of days. Love Mum,Dad, Allison & Ryan.

Back to Paris
















Today ,after 2 days with our host families, we met up at the train station at Amiens to say goodbye. It was quite emotional.
In Paris we left our packs at the hotel and made our way to the Moulin Rouge. From there we went to the Sacre Couer, and ate our lunch and then walked up the many stairs to one the highest points in Paris.
We caught the metro across the Seine River to Notre Dame, spending time admiring the huge stained windows and the organ music.
Dinner tonight was in a restaurant only a short walk from the hotel.

a cold but beautiful anzac day









after an early morning wake up of 3:30 am, we made our way from the host families houses either by private transport or mini bus from the school. although we had been constantly warned about the extent of the cold it came as a surprise to us just how freezing the weather really was. upon arrival we were greeted with the kind and familiar voices that followed the accents of the australian soldiers. one soldier that was handing out programmes and badges said in a typical australian manner; "get your free programmes and badges, yeah come on mate you know you wanna." the mood as we all bundled together as a group was one of reflection and in my case extreme awe of the love and gratitude the people of france, particularly villers bretonneux, have for australian's. this feeling was finalised with the kind treatment we received at our host familie's house. as the ceremony proceeded, the emotion of the event reached everyone in the audience and we rediscovered the significance of anzac day. brad, laura and dylan made us all proud by laying a wreath infront of the crowd on behalf of tumut high school. the freezing cold weather was not enough to stop us all from experiencing and discovering a new meaning to anzac day as well as getting first hand experience and insight into the strong bonds between australia and france. the ceremony over all was very touching and was definately a highlight of the trip. particularly visiting la hamel, the town in which my host family resided, and seeing their memorial with australian trenches and the meaning behind each stage of battle displayed in english and french on boards leading up to the flags of australia, france, usa and canada. i will never look at anzac day in the same light again. love lisa.

amiens
















This morning our host families packed us huge lunches and dropped us off at the train station to spend the day at amiens. when we arrived in the city we went on small motorised boats around canals. it was very relaxing and interesting; seeing all the tiny farming houses along the canal. we then walked through amiens on our way to the notre dame cathdral, a replica of the cathdral in paris. we were intrigued by the stuatue of the crying cherub leaning on a human skull.

after walking around the cathedral we made our way to the park and ate our lunches next to the lake, sone people taking the chance to have a play on the equipment.
after 3hours of free time shopping in amiens we were all exhausted and glad to see our families waiting for us at the Villers station. we all went home for a huge dinner and tried to get some sleep before our early morning wake up for ANZAC.

Paris

We divided into 3 groups today - giving the students a choice of where they wanted to go for the morning.
Mr Dietz and Mrs Vanags led a train trip out of Paris to the Palace at Versailles, only having time to see the gardens before returning to our meeting point at the Opera.
Mr Burns took a few Science students to the Marie Curie Museum - small but interesting and Mrs Stroud and myself took the metro to the Cimetiere du Pere Lachaise where some very famous people are buried - including Jim Morrison, Edith Piaff, Chopin, Moliere, Oscar Wilde, and Abelard and Heloise. These 2 groups met up to experience the coffee culture at the Hard Rock Cafe (too expensive, so found a cheaper alternative!).
After meeting all up at the Opera and having lunch we returned to the hotel to get our packs and then to the Gare du Nord to catch the train to Amiens, where we changed trains for Villers Bretonneux.
Our reception at the school at Villers Bretonneux was incredible. The foyer was decorated in all the symbols of Australia - the green and gold, kangaroos etc. After being introduced to our host families, we all went our separate ways.
Ms Nicholls

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Hi Catherine.
We watched very carefuly through the ANZAC service to see if we could see anyone of you guys, till we saw Bradley laying the wreath. We then watched him walk back to see where he was going but lost him. Matt rang this morning said "HI" he had a good day 4 ANZAC , pizza and 2 beers.
talk latter. Lots of love and missing you heaps. Karen, Terry, Jono and Matt.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Bradley

Hi, we saw you on the ABC putting the wreath on! Ella said you should come home now. You all looked frozen. Hope your having a great time with your host family. We've enjoyed the photos and can't believe how quickly it's gone by. Enjoy the rest of your trip everyone.
lots of love
Mum, Dad, Jack & ELLA xxxx
Hi Catherine.
We just got the internet back on , checked out the site and love the photos, it sounds like you are all having so much fun, i wish that I could be with you. We went to the dawn service today and thought of you and Mathew. Say Hello to your host family for us. Looking forward to seeing you or any one of you on TV today.
Missing you heaps, Love Karen, Terry and Jono.
Hi Mealz, hope the legs are OK and have a good day on ANZAC day. It is raining here and dad is happy.Hope you and Kate are behaving for your host family and not causing too much mayhem.Only 5 sleeps then back to the real world of work, school, work so enjoy it while you can. missing you heaps love mum,dad and william

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Hello Brodie and Brad it's Amelia

Hi Brodie and Brad

It's only 5 sleeps till you get home. I am so excited. I hope you like living with Contance for 3 days Brodie. I love your photo in Paris. I went to the Canberra Zoo and fed a baby white lion. I will show you the photo when you get back. Can you tell Laura and Catherine that I fed the lion. Say hello to them for me too please. Hope you have a good day on ANZAC Day we are going to watch the TV in case we can see you or Brad or Laura or Catherine or anyone you are with. I love you and miss you but not long till you are home. Can you bring me a present from Paris too please. Just a little one.

Lots and lots of love from Amelia xxxoooxxxoooxxxoooxx



Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Tour of Paris












Yesterday (Tuesday) we ventured from Venice to Paris via Milan. During this trip of 12 hours we briefly took in the sights of Milans historic stataion bulit by Mussilini and the incredible scenery of the snow capped alps. On the entry into France there was a long delay caused by the removal of some illegal immigrants from the train.
Finally, with not much sleep and plenty of card gamzs we arrived in Paris at the Gare de Lyon where we were bused to our hotel and to our beds at about 1."à am.
After a good but short nights sleep, we were up early ready for our first look at Paris. Our guide was Evelyn. We caught the metro to Musee d Orsay were we saw works by Monet, Manet, Degas, Van Gogh, and Evelyn explained the historical development of their style of painting.
After an hours tour, we moved onto the Eiffel Tower where the queues were very long.This did not lessen our spirit. We caught the lift to the highest level where we experienced amazing views across Paris. We descended by the stairs- the whole 700 plus of them. We crossed the Seine River and made our way to the Arc de Triumphe, a magnificent monument built in 1836 to celebrate Napoleons victory at Austerlitz.
The traffic in Paris is generally not as chaotic as we saw in Rome and Naples. The roads around the arc are chocked with traffic seemlyingly not following any rules. After lunch we were keen to do some washing so we made our way back to the hotel and used a local laundry. Dinner was at a lovely restaurant, Cafe Barjot. We had a lot to share at the nightly D&M after these 2 full and exciting days.
Love Hayley, Nick B and Dylan

Mip xx

Heading to Paris
With lots on their minds
Are 20 Tumut High students
In two straight lines
They left their hotel at half past nine
In search of a little girl named Madeline.

Hi Mip, Do you like my poem? Hope your having fun, miss you heaps. Love Moo xx
P.S. Say hi to Madeline (If you see her)

Mitch we are all missing you, Have the best time, Treasure every moment.. Cant wait for the photos and stories you will have to show and tell.
love Mum xx



Hello Beautiful Stacey

Hi Stace,

It looks like you are having a great time from the few photos we have seen. Can't wait to hear all your stories and see the rest of the photos, time is ticking away fast and you will be home before you know it. I hope the weather has been kind. It's been cool here of a night but really pleasant during the day.
Take care and keep safe. All our love Robby and Tan xoxo.

P.S Robby said hello Thathey are there any French girls asking about him... Typical it's all about him

Hello Nicholas Anderson

How was the view from The Tower? We will put some money in your bank just incase as we are heading for the camping trip in Batmens Bay on Friday. The weather is looking bad and we think we are going to be cold, wet and wind blown. 
Missing you, Love Mum, Dad, Eliza, Zac and Lachlan.

DY

Hey Dylan
All is good at home. Dad said turf needs mowing where are you??????????
Connor has been staying at our house loves your bed. Connor has been riding Cecil, he got thrown today to busy worrying about eating. Bingo tomorrow. Arnie has grown heaps. Dad said Bulldogs up there on ladder.
We watch the blog looks like you are having a great time.
Bye All the Bucketheads.xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Love the photos. Hugs n kisses

Kate

Hi Kate and Everyone. You would be exhausted after your trip on the train especially arriving in the early hours of the morning. Hope you can purchase another bag Kate, to bring home all of your goodies. Steff is feeling very down getting messages from us in NZ and reading your blogs from Europe - her turn will come! went for a helicopter ride over the glaciers and Mt Cook - ren't I brave. Like you we are getting tired, but so much to see and so little time to see it! Hope Laura remembered her mum's birthday - it's a special one!!!! Andrew is happy cause Bombers and Saints won the footy. We will have to plan a trip to Melbourne for a game. enjoy the rest of your trip. The time will fly. Had great weather just a little cold at night.

Au Revoir
je t'aime
Love you
mum and dad xoxo

Elly Vanags

Hello Elly and all those ex-McAuley, good Catholic kids!!!
Got your postcard today Ell (thanks). Hope you are having a great time. Jenny Malone is here eating all my food and she showed me how to do this! (Hello Chris x0x).
All good here - looking foward to seeing you back at work.
Hope you all are having an awsome time and your foot is keeping up with you!
Love, Libby Mc x

ello ter Jems

Dear Jems
Miah nem ist Sven ant I vood lik to intrerjoose mi-zelf. Miah gullfrend Holga (ist pronuns-ed Hol-ga but ist spelt “hol-ga”) em I em much be apologize fer th theng vist th gitar and hermp – en Sveeedun vee sayen “hermp” lik en “gitar hermp” nert en, yer know – “hermp” lik en sayen hen you contree. Enywez… we are en ze bend “Snert” - wich ist lik zer gren veg-e-tubl nert unlik brerkherlee (bert testee-her) ant vee har veree… ow you seh… herpy, vest th elberm vech vee hef col-ed “hah test herf snert”. Th fust song ist hen yor hernar. Rerk ern keret terp! Enee-vaze, zer hermp zill be ped fer (et verz e-lettl – ow you seh – bernt) bud nuthenz er ledl geffer tep wont fex-ed). Vee haf press-ed ton towsand cerpeez hoff der elbum ant hef sol-ed – vet fer et – ferteen! Est rerken mun! Yer fren-ed Jerk (ist pronouns-ed “jerk” vich trunslets ter “jerk” lik int my contree – wert a co-uncidenze!) wuz gret ter jum weth – ee rerks fer a berld gey. Yoah derd!
Merst ger - heff menee ottogreffs teer sun ant groopeez to descerz po-etry viz.
Lerv
Sven ant Holga: rerk hern derd!

Hey Haylz

Hey chick, I can imagine what a great time you are having :)
I guess by the time you read this you will be making your way through Paris.
Have been listening for you on 96.3. We had the Tumut Rodeo on the weekend Georgie & Trav both rode in the Barrel Race and Trav also tried his luck on a Poddy Calf (not too much success there) Scott won both the Blonde Challenge (Saddle Bronc Ride) and the Steer Wrestling, I was lucky enough to be the Canteen/BBQ Co-ordinator for the weekend but all in all the weekend was a success, I think we made nearly $15,000 on the gate and the Bar takings would of been HUGE. So hopefully we will have made enough to donate to RDA, Gadara etc
Anyway C U Soon, Have Fun, Luv Aunty Tan xxx

Hi Hayley

Thought I'd better warn you that the streets are no longer safe in Tumut! Kurt has his P's and looks like he's lovin it!
Lori said to tell you that she is having a great time in the holidays - having another sleepover at Amy's tomorrow night but she said that she is missing her friends and missing school but most of all missing you (she has slept in yours and Jas's bed more while you have both been away than her own). She says HI to Chris and Jo and can't wait to see what her present is when you get home.
Love Mum, Dad, Jas and Lori xxxx
Hi Chris.Weather has been very nice for the school holidays. Maybe some rain at the weekend. Have heard most of the interviews on the radio Everyone is doing a great job with them and the daily blog entries. Technology is certainly amazing.
For any of the parents, grandparents friends etc, On ABC television on Saturday 25th at 1.30pm (according to the program in the local paper)there is coverage of the Villers Bretonneux Anzac service. Maybe people would like to tape it for the kids to watch when they get home.
Keep well,safe and having fun. Love from Dad, Mum, Allison and Ryan.

On our way to Paris

Wow. What a great day we all had in Venice yesterday. Despite the rain, we enjoyed the town very much. The view from the tower in St Marks square over the islands was breathtaking. The streets in Venice are very narrow and it was very easy to get lost. Our visit to Murano island was very interesting. We watched a glass blowing demonstration before wanding through the many shops.
Today we are on the train to Paris. It will be a long trip via Milan arriving in Paris at about 11.30pm. We will tell you all our train stories after our arrival there.
Bye for now.

Trivia no 2

What do Paris Melbourne and Adelaide have in common?
BMTrsutees
Hey everyone!
it's jack here. sounds like your having a fantastic time in venice and on the trip in general, i wish i were there with you guys.
heard you on the radio this afternoon palms, venice sounds awesome.
but sorry britt, i missed you on abc today. trace texted and emailed me to tell me but i was still asleep at 10.10   :P
missing you guys!   

oh and palmer, i had a jam with sphen and ulga. there amazing man! like really insane. they made your strat and marshall just sing. And you know how when hendrix played wild thing live and then afterwards he did that sacrifice thing? well uh........ you know what, you should probably find out in person.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Hi Britt. Heard you on the ABC radio today. You sounded great. A tour guide in Rome for next year!!!!!!!! Well thats something different.
Love Mum

Hi Mitch

so happy that you are having a great time, miss you heaps, have one of those great coffees & pastries for me please. Guess the time is flying for you,hope the time differance is not upsetting your sleep to much. Enjoy the rest of your trip. Love Always Nan

Still miss you Mip

Sorry we missed your call yesterday, was in Wagga with Mum,Dad & Zac. Im off to Nans tonight and then to Claudettes on Wednesday. Jack hasnt heard anything about what time at the Festival. The Cardinals are in the paper for Battle of the Bands. Your Famous..

Love Moo



Hi everyone from Venice.
In addition to Mrs Vanags birthday, yesterday was a day of adventure. Our trip from Florence to Venice had a few ups and downs but we all made it safe and sound. The Hotel is the best we have stayed at so far and dinner last night was fantastic. Today we have begun our visit to Venice with first stop St Marks square. We have also taken to the water as seen in the photos above. Internet access has not been easy to find in Venice, hence this brief post. Tomorrow a long trip to Paris. We will post the next blog when we arrive there. Bye for now.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Hi Mealz . Footy good under 18 Gundagai won, Reserves Gundagai won Blake played well scored a try,first grade Tumut won.Very hot day Hope you are having fun,Stay safe and well love to you miss you Mum and Dad

Mrs Vanags

And avery Happy Venetian Birhday from your Fellow Trustees

Mrs .Vanags

Best Wishes for a Venetian Birthday
Your Fellow Trustees

Saturday, April 18, 2009

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MUM

hi mum, im so sorry i missed your call, i couldnt find my phone, it was under my bed..where else would it be?? HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you, happy birthday to you. I hope you have had the most wonderful day, i cant believe you get to spend it over seas! i miss you so so much and cant wait to see you. hope you are having the best time ever and i love you so much. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MUM (Elly)

Hi mum,

Just wanted to wish you a very happy birthday...can't believe you are spending it in Venice!! Enjoy the day and hopefully you can fit in a bit of shopping. The three of us + Whisky miss you very much. Special birthday hugs await you upon your return.
Love you,
Maira. xxxxxxxxx
P.S/ remember that I am returning to Sydney today so you will have to ring my mobile.

Hey from Florence,
Today we walked to the train station where we took an hour train ride to the town of Pisa, where we saw the famous leaning tower of Pisa. It was a good day to visit as it is still leaning - who knows when it will fall. Many of us took the opportunity to do the tourist thing, which was to simulate pushing the leaning tower and take a photo. We then wandered around the area, where we took in the sites and experienced local cuisine. The weather was drizzly, but it didn't drown our spirits as we traveled back to Florence. Upon our return to Florence, we were given free time to do some more wandering, which led to the spending of money, and many presents were bought for our families back home. Other than hitting the local markets, many of our group decided to take the time to visit the cathedral, museum's, and do some needed chores. Another great dinner tonight - with a surprise desert!
Tomorrow - off to church at 7.30am. Then we move onto Venice, catch up with everyone then.
From Brodie and Ethan.
PS Sorry - we did not get to the gardens in Florence. Any future photo requests are fine - just give a little notice :)

To All Wonderful Teachers

Mr Deitz, I would like to thankyou so much for the fantastic photos you have been taking. It makes the distance between us all seem not quite so extreme. It is a relief to us when we see our happy smiling offspring (even if they don't want to - I mean have time to - talk to us) on this, their first big adventure of their lives without us (parents) tagging along.
Knowing that they are being guided by a wonderful group of caring, thoughtful and sensible teachers has made our job of being parents unbelievably easy.
So thankyou to ALL of you. You are all amazing teachers for taking such wonderful care and thought with our children. Your dedication deserves rewarding. (Maybe a month off from the Dept. of Ed when you all return). I am sure you will probably need this.
And of course this wouldn't be at all possible without the very generous Blakeney Millar Foundation who have given all our kids such an amazing start to adulthood...
sincere thanks to you.

Thankyou from all the grateful parents back here.

PS. Mr Deitz - the original point of this message was to request you to insert a picture of the group at Michelangelo's Terrace in the next blog. (That is if you visit there of course). I am sure that all parents would love to see a picture of such beauty(with a bit of riff raff thrown in).
Cheers To All and just keep having fun.

Hi Megs

Hi Meg

Heard you on 96.3 radio this afternoon - you done really well!!! I was wrapped when you thanked me for the trip and how much you appreciated everything! Enjoy the exciting days ahead - hearing your happy voice today made it all worth it three times over. Bring home lots of pics. Love Mum xx .

To all Travellers

Many thanks for your all terrific blogs and your photos Mr .Dietz and the time you are taking for 96.3 and now the ABC which will be sorted on Monday ...I shall blog details .
Now for a Venice Trivia question
How does a gondolier keep his boat going straight when he only rows with one oar and one side .
Enjoy your journey and thank you all very much for participating.
The BM Trustees

Friday, April 17, 2009

From the Teachers

Hi to all,

This is one of the first opportunities we have been able to have a bit of time on the internet. We have just been so busy and having a wonderful time. The students are thoroughly enjoying themselves and are absorbing everything they see, hear and smell (especially the lovely Italian cuisine).
Mr Burns just wants to advise everyone that he is fulfilling his daily nutritional requirements through pizza and gelati (there are many different flavours and types to try). He has become our new navigator.
Mr Deitz has consistently demonstrated his care for the children as his number one priority on the trip and has been taking some fantastic photographs (see the Blog).
Mrs Vanags is having a ball and is fascinated with the many different heritage doors. She has been doing an awesome job of organising the students to ring and speak with the "Sounds of the Mountains".
Miss Nicholls has been enjoying checking out the local scenery and is a great surrogate mother for the students. She is also doing a terrific job as the Blog coordinator organising different students to write each night.
As for me.... I am just loving it. The students in the group are fantastic and I am really enjoying getting to know each one of them a lot better. The teachers are wonderful. We work well as a team and enjoy each others company immensely.

Just a reminder to everyone that this trip would not be possible without the Blakeney Millar Foundation. Thank you so much. We really appreciate it.

Love from

Mrs Stroud

Hugs and kisses to Glenn and Charlie:-)

For Louise Halsey

Hi Louise,
Thanks for your email. Was great to hear from you. The ABC radio can ring David Deitz directly without him having to pay for the incoming call. We will organise the students to speak.His number is 0011 37 259 992 445. Maybe they could ring either at your 4.30pm or at your 6am. Maybe only do it every 3rd day (with the last one in Villers Bretonneux).
Mrs Stroud

Hi to the Schumer family

Hi mum, nan. sis, al and kids
I am in Naples today and heading over to Pisa this morning on the train to see the leaning tower of Pisa and also some other things I am sure. Might go to the florence markets when we get back off the train where there are cheap leather goods and souveniours for tourists. Lots of carriage horses around which i enjoy eyeing off!

k, love you all

Love Megs

Florence

hello to family, friends and fellow trustees

it is 7:30am on the 8th day and we are preparing to go to the tower of Pisa. Naples is a direct contrast to Florence but we loved the diversity and pulsating feeling we felt whilst there. The group is amazing! They are on their feet roughly 15 hours a day and we keep getting comments from our guides about how attenative & interested they are. Tonight we are off to a Catholic Church service in the 3rd largest church in Italy. many stories to tell when we return. our motel is the original house of dantes wife. Tim Fischer was a highlight and he gave me his card as he wants to know more about the foundation. All is well. Cant wait to see more! Bye for now.
Elly
Hey all our readers;
Thank you for keeping all your messages (short) - we appreciate it.
Today we left the hotel at 8:30 to catch our train at the station at 10. After a three hour trip in which we saw numerous cloud covered mountains and very green paddocks. We arrived in Florence and felt much safer in the smaller quieter town. The population of Florence is 380,000, it has around 140 churches, fifty museums and one public toilet. Ethan directed us to the hotel, it didn't take us long even though we did miss the turn and went around in a circle. We ended up asking a wealthy local for directions who wanted 5 euros for the directions. After a few days of not being able to do our washing we found a laundromat and finally got to do our washing (it was about time to). We meet our guide, Franchesca at the hotel at 4 o'clock and she took us on a tour of Florence. We started with the 3rd biggest basilica in the world: Santa Maria. This basilica was very grand, it was made of marble sourced from different parts of Italy and it was 110 meters tall.
We then went to the museum Academia and saw the famous statue of David. David was 17 feet tall, made out of marble and Mrs Stroud was very taken by his form. Franchessca then took us through Florence to see the mascot of Florence: a bronze boar/pig. We rubbed its snout for good luck and to make us come back to Florence.
We then had dinner which was paid for by the Blakney Millar foundation which we greatly appreciated and sung Happy Birthday to Amelia. We told Amelia that she had to kiss the neared man - luckily/unfortunatley that happened to be Mr Deitz - we had a good laugh :)
By Stacey and Chris
P.S. to J Hayes - txt msg received.
Hi Mealz, hope you are having a wonderfull 17th birthday.We all wish we could spend it with you. Thinking of you and i hope you get a cake and find the card in your bag.with all our love Mum, Dad and William.The rest of the family also say happy birthday.XXXOOO

Hi Meg - from Mum

Hi Meg - seen the photos - look like you are all having the time of your life - scenery is beautiful! Disappointed your phone call was cut off today - keep trying please, i f you can!! Everything OK here. Miss you, have FUN and take care. Love Mum xx

Stace

Hi Stace,
We are visiting your Mum and Dad for a few days. Please ring your mother as she is driving us crazy worrying out loud about why you have not called her. I gave her a new pandora today and took Meg and Timmy to lunch. Will keep in touch through your mum. Have a wonderful time. and keep safe. Love Lynnie and Brad.
PS: When will you be on the radio??? You are 4 off the pace in the football, Hi from the rest of the family.
Hi Lisa

I have sent several e-mails to your msn account but have not received any replies. Are you getting the messages? Trying not to use too much space on this site as requested.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Hello Mrs Vanags

Great to see Boris on Tour. He looks a bit sad without any garden around him. How is Boris's foot from all the walking?
From Lachlan Anderson.  






Hi from Naples again! Today we ventured onto the bus at approximately quarter to nine this morning for a short drive to the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. We first went to Pompeii where we met our guide Joanna who was extremely helpful throughout the day. Entering through one of the seven gates of Pompeii, we walked to the small theatre which was used mostly for musical and political events in the ancient times. A few photos later and we were back onto the roads of Pompeii only to find ourselves walking past many commercial structures such as thermopoleums which were restaraunts somewhat like the modern day McDonalds and KFC. We continued along the streets around many corners to the Lupanare which was a favourite for many of us and it put the “secret room” from the Museum of Naples into context with well preserved frescoes and a friendly wild dog. The next stop was the Forum which was an amazing area with many temples such as the temple of Jupiter and the many different markets food markets. The wool markets were interesting as we saw two of Fiorelli’s plaster casts of the dead bodies found in Pompeii. We continued our tour of the city with Joanna giving us great information and descriptions of every place. We visited the Forum Baths which were spectacularly preserved with mosaics of great detail and large marble baths which were beautiful to see. One particular structure favoured was the House of the Faun which was amazing to see as we’d previously seen a lot of the mosaics and frescoes at the Museum of Naples. We exited the site through the Marine Gate next to the Forum and on our way we walked through the Basilica which was the political building of Pompeii. After an hour for lunch and bartering our way through the markets on the site, we made our way back onto the bus to Herculaneum or Ercolano as the Italians call it. Joanna guided us yet again and she explained to us all the differences between the destruction of the two sites and how the actual cities varied in ancient times. In Herculaneum, we walked through the streets to learn about the drainage systems that are much different to what we see today. The way in which the typical house was designed was a little strange for our tastes as we were told that the kitchen always housed a toilet due to the need for constant water and pipes going into the sewerage systems in the streets. We also visited the bath house in Herculaneum which was separated into two buildings, the male section and the female section. They were mostly identical although the female section was more well preserved with the mosaics on the floor and most of us thought it was particularly more beautiful than the male section. We visited a lot of houses in Herculaneum which was great to see and especially was important to see for the comparison of the ancient cities. In Herculaneum there were many more two storey buildings because of the carbonised wood. After our guides, we left the ancient site and we came back to the hotel to leave again for dinner. We went to a restaraunt near the port of Naples and we had a three course meal of Mushroom Risotto, Roast Chicken and a yummy chocolate cake. Back on the bus again with many singsongs and the whole bus joining in.
Brittany

Hi All

Great to see some photos from you guys in Europe. I hope all is a great experience and some fun also. Not quite as exiting back here in Aus although my easter was spent in a place called Mungindi(population 350). It was yobbo heaven, saw mud trials (cars with chains on the back whells hooning through mud pits) and an iron man event with a difference. Also good to keep updated with the radio broadcasts of you guys and what you have been up to. Am off to a rally in Lithgow this weekend so that will probably be the highlight of my holidays. Steve I got your message on the machine, ill talk to the SASS ladies when back at work unless urgent.
Take care and enjoy the things we here are missing out on.
Mr Wray

Hi there Mip

hi mip beth is over and we played hello kitty in your room and yesterday i played kingdom hearts.(thanks.)i am really missing you lots and i cried when you left on the bus.i really hope you will be back soon.(very soon.)if you bring me a present then you pretty much brang me two.(you and the present.)
love moo.xxooxxoo

hey mitch its zac Dragon ball sux big time. got your laptop back 4 u.

DY

Hi Dylan girls have been trying to ride ride Cecil but she is being v naughty, prob misses you. We are off to Queanbeyan Saturday for Mitch's 21 party. Erin back to RAAF on Sunday arvo. Saw your photos in Naples.have a good time!!!!!!!!!!!!!Girls miss you.

Hi Kate

Successful at last! Love the photos. Everyone (including the teachers) would be having a fantastic time. Even though I practised this before you left have only worked this out with the help of a nice Irish guy at the internet cafe. Catching the ferry to the south island of New Zealand tomorrow. Have a fantastic time and try and do, and taste and see as much as possible! Say hi to everyone. Love you xoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

To Mealz and Hayley

HEY GURLZ!!!!
KERRIN EMILY AND NOSEY HOPE UZ R HAVN AN AWSUM TYM :):)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEBSTER FOR TOMOZ HOPE U HAV A LOVELY DAY WE WILL B THINKIN BOUT U.. (WE WILL B PARTYIN 4 U) HAHA!

TAKE LOTS OF PHOTOS 4 US CANT WAIT TILL YAZ CUM BAK :)

P.S nosey learnt how to drift the other day she said she will teach yas wen ya cum bak lol tell ya bout it wen yas get home. LOVE YA'S XXXXXX

Second Stop - Naples



Greetings from Naples. Today was one of the more relaxed days of our trip. This morning we departed from Rome at a quarter to nine, to take a three hour trip to Naples by bus, encountering only one accident, causing major time delays and the shortening of lunch. "We were devastated". After what was left of lunch, we went on a guided tour of the Archaelogical Museum of Naples, in which we had the chance to view enormous and elaborate sculptures and mosaics. About an hour into our guided tour we entered a secret room, in which we took more photos than we anywhere else. This is due to the abundance of "phallic symbols" which were seen as good luck. After the museum we caught the bus to our hotel and had a couple of hours to spare until dinner. Our dinner consisted of three courses, margherita pizza for the entreé, grilled fish and salad for the main course and what we refer to as the "soggy muffin" which none of us were particularly impressed with. Now down to business, we know that you love and miss us, as we do you but we ask that families can keep their messages for all of their loved ones short and sweet. Also Brad spoke with Ambassador Tim Fischer on ABC radio and they will continue to keep in contact with us three times during the rest of the trip :-)
Laura & Mitch.

Stacey Mcgrath

I Stace, Jeanie heard the boys on the radio this afternoon, she tried to send a text meesage, not sure if you recieved it or not. Sounds like your having a great time, hope your taking heaps of photos, talk to you soon.

Jean and Rick

For Mrs Stroud

Congratulations Team Leader ,it was terrifc to see "Team Tumut" with Tim Fisher and what a beaut interview Tim organised. I have arranged for a copy of the interview from ABC Riverina who are now very keen to make further contact with you........ let me know how you would like to do this and I shall organise it with the station ....Maybe do the crossover at the same time you chat with 96.3 They are happy to pre-record ...Marvellous to be famous take care and make sure they look after you .
Louise Halsey
Hi Mealz and Hayley,hope you are having a great time and looking after each other.Dook, hope the legs are holding you up still and last the distance.If you see some compression stockings they might be easier than a bandage.Blake is getting ready for a hiding at the footy on Saturday.HA HA Miss you and love to you both Cathy and David

message for Mrs Vanags

Hi Mrs Vanags its Dana, hope you are having a good time. Mum showed us a photo of you all on the computer.Is my brother being good?Erin has been having a good time in Tumut , she said she is going for a horse ride with me tomorrow, I can't wait. bye for now. Dana B

Message for Hayley and Chris

Hay hayley and chris its lori. i hope you had a good Easter. the easter bunny left you a pink smartie egg and milk choc bunny and they are actually still in the fridge (hiding it from Jas).
I hope you have had a very good time and are eating lots of yummy food. Mum said to take a nice photo of you both together for Nan and Pop. I miss you very much. Hope you haven't spent all your money and don't forget to buy me a present!
i hope you havent been naughty (Jo will tell me if you have!!!)
love lori
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooooxoxxxxoxxxxxxoooooxxoxoxoxoxoxxooxooxxxxxxxxxooxooxoxooxooxoxxooxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxxoxoxoxoxoxxoooooo

HELLO BRODIE

To Brodie,
I miss you heaps & wish you would ring me the time when you are all having breakfast because then I can talk to you. That is when I am listening to the radio waiting to hear about what you are doing. I have seen your photos it looks fun. Your bed is bouncy I can do good summersalts on it. I didn't eat any easter eggs on sunday because I was sick. The kittens miss you. But I miss you worse.
Love from Amelia xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxoooooooooooooooooooooo
Stay safe, love you - Mum & Dad xxoo

To Lisa

Have been showing lots of people at work your progress with the trip. We love following what you are all doing. Keep up the communication.
From
Melinda - Lisa's mum
Hi Cat.
Its been good to hear from you even when it is 3am or 5.30am here, we do love hearing your voice. We had a good and quite Easter and the Easter Bunny left you some more eggs. Everyone I bump into says to say "HI "and take lots of photos. Bill and Vicki rang to wish you the best and to have a good time. After seeing all the granite and marble makes you appreciate what dad does. Jono misses you and Matt said to have a great time. Dad and some of his men have been working on a war monument for the horses that have been used in all the wars, it is going to be good when it is finished. Nan and Pop send their love, and Granny ask about you all the time.
Keep safe and always be with a friend. Looking foward to your postcards.
Lots of love xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Mum and Dad and Jono. xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

for mrs stroud



dear josiebear,
i have loved looking at the photos and your itinerary makes me insanely jealous. it looks nice and warm in rome. take some pics of the lovely pastries and tarts that i know you will be munching on haha! it is nice and warm here today about 25 degrees and it's making me guilty lying on the lounge reading my twilight books when i should be outside in the lovely sunshine.
i have attached some pictures from the top of mt kosciuszko on easter sunday - one of me and one of what the easter bunny left for me on the top of the mountain.
hope you are having a ball and those students better behave themselves and shower you with as many compliments as they can!
love ya, lissa x
Brod,

I waved to you on Saturday morning from our balcony and you weren't looking!! Enjoy your trip but watch out for pickpockets in Naples (its reknowned for it) and also angelic little children playing musical instruments!!

Auntie Trish
Hi Nic A
It was great to hear your voice yesterday. Tell Chris to ring his mum. Wonderful to here that the trip is everything you had hoped. Take lots of photos. It is great to see the photos on the blog. We are all missing you. 
Enjoy the food. 
Love Mum, Dad, Eliza, Zac, and Lachlan

hi chris

Chris i hope u r having lots of fun in Europe and i hope that every one else is too & in case u r wondering bulldogs won by 2 point against the rabbitohs.every one is missing u except for me.

love Ryan xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

also email me at: maloney-rulz@hotmail.com
Hi from Mum too, we have had some nice rain, dad and cows happy.

HEY BABE!

Doesn't the phoneaway card work that we bought you before you left? Do you need a new one?
I originally thought that you must have had jet lag from the long trip and temporarily forgot your own home phone number. But alas, thank goodness for the wonder of the internet!!! I was about to ring Mr Deitz to check that you actually got on the plane when I thought I would just check the blogsite and was so happy to see your smiling face at the Piazza Nova in Rome and then this morning we were excited to see you still having a great time visiting the Vatican. Looking forward for more to come.....
Love always
Your family. xxxooo

Bradley Bulger

Hey, sounds like your all having fun! We had a very busy Easter with Dad & Jack at Burrunjuck, everyone missed having you there and lots of absolutly's took place, some bad fish caught even by Andrew. Lissa Marko and the girls went to Young and the Easter Bunny found them. Tumut team brought home a second in the walk section and a third in the trot from the Royal, YEAH! It actually remembered how to rain here the past two days, we had great rain, Bella is not impressed.
Hope you are eating some great pasta for me. Missing you
love Mum, Dad & Jack xx

Second day in Rome.





Dear family and friends
Our second day in Rome was filled with delight, reflection and amazement at the Vatican City. We were greeted by our tour guide Paulo who took us through the Vatican Museums, colmunating with a visit to the spectacular Sistine Chappel. The Sistine Chappel attracts lots of people, so the whisper tour with Paulo came in handy. He gave us a look into the detailed and entangled history behind the paintings and statues that lined the walls. As well as visiting the Sistine chappel, we had the great privilage of meeting the embassador of Australia for the Vatican, Mr Tim Fischer. His tour of the museum to the side of St. Peter's Square proved to be both informing and extremely interesting. We also gained knowledge of the past popes and their political influences.
Brad & Megan





Attention Nick Booby: Shirley's across Tumut swoon

Hi Dick,
Nan aka your special girl was pleased with your shoutout, you will be the talk of the meals and wheels van tomorrow. Pop flair on the other hand is very dissapointed you didnt give him a plug. Titans towelled the cowboys 14 - 10, better luck next year. Mum misses you but still says that you were adopted. Take photos, that is what the camera is for. Tom's travel tip: make sure you turn your underwear inside out and wear again for twice the road distance, less washing that way. Please reply with blog and photos in order to make mum happy.

Regards,
Cod and team

DY

Hey Dylan,
Hope you are having a good time. Was good to hear your arrived OK. All is OK here had a huge storm this afternoon Nan and Pop still at Dam prob V wet. Will track you through the blog.
Love Mum
XXXXXXX

Laura R.

Dear lauzy, we have read your messages but we haven't been very successful sending any. we hope that you had a wonderful Easter, it was very quiet at home, Jake spent the break camping at the dam. we are following the itinary and can imagine how wonderful it all is. I'm really keen to hear all about Pompei after your visit, take care we love you and miss you heaps. have a wonderful time. ask Ellie how much sleep so far! love mum and dadxxxxx
Hello Jo-Ann
I have been getting your messages and good to hear everything is going well. The easter weekend was really good and busy with work ,but all okay and no major incidents in the park.
We have had some good rain with 31 mils here at home. Charlie is good and glad I am home for a couple of days now.
Talk Soon
Love Glenn and Charlie

Monday, April 13, 2009

Dy

Hey Dy,
Hope you are having a great time...
...but if I was you, I would ring Mum the first opportunity you get!
Enjoy yourself.
Erin

To Leeza Deeza

Our e-mail address is wdeas@bigpond.net.au

Great to hear from you and that you are having a great time over there. Following your trip with great interest, I log on several times a day to read the messages and it's great to see the photo's as well. Millie was here yesterday, said to say hello and she will be flying to Prague on the 26th April so you will be able to wave to each other practically as you pass. Gazebo has a roof now and the project is coming along nicely. Will pop down to see Britt's mum this morning. Bye for now. Melinda - Lisa's mum

hello melinda!

hey mum, im in rome at an internet cafe finding it really hard to work the crazy keyboards. i sent you an email but i think i got the address wrong so for future reference could you please tell me what it is. lol. today was fantastic. the buildings in rome are unbelievable. the flight over was long, times two and the food was average but the individual tellys on the second flight really helped pass the time. i miss you guys a lot, but so far am enjoying myself and the food here. brittany is next to me and tracey was saying that she wanted to put some money in my account which should be fine. i bought three little magnetic calendars with pictures of all the places we have visited today, i thought grandma would like one. for the palmers: james read your messages and really misses and loves you but was feeling very tired. he is going to write to you tomorrow i think, and he said thankyou very much to brodie for her creative blogging. anyway, i have a postcard for you mum but i think ill send it to grandma instead as i can talk to you through this. plus i need to thank her for the money she gave me. i really hope you and dad get to come here and experience this because i know that you would just love it. tell angus that i miss him too and hope that he can come here and see this stuff for himself, if there is anything cheap that he wants tell him to let me know, ill keep a look out for something small and european that he might like lol. other than that at the moment i have nothing else to report to you, ill keep you updated however and email you once i know your address. love you. lisa.

Experiencing and Exploring Rome


Today we went and had our first tour of Rome. Our tour guide Paulo gave us plenty of information and insight into the history of the city. We saw the Colloseum and Pantheon, walked the great Spanish steps, tossed coins in the Trevi fountain and saw lots of memorable scenery. We did plenty of walking throughout the city as well as catching trains...
We are all having a great time and appreciate all your loving comments although we wish for you to possibly keep them shorter due to time restraints..Thankyou and goodbye for now :-)

Dylan & Tim

PICTURE: Piazza Nova Monday 13-4-09 Rome
Hello travellers,
Greetings from Adelong - The Rome of the south. I'm having a great time keeping up with the blog as I'm sure so many are. Have fun and don't miss a thing. Students, remember Mrs. Stroud does not like Italian or French pastries and Mr. Deitz does not need to buy any more pink Italian ties. Mr. Burns, looks like a Doggies/Bombers Grand Final.
Stay safe and enjoy it all.

OB1.
Dear Families, friends and Trustees,
We have finally arrived on Sunday night at 10pm. Had a great flight from Seoul to Rome via Milan.
Our first day in Italy today, seeing the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon and the Spanish Steps. Mostly we have enjoyed just walking and looking. Everything is just amazing!!.
Our expert guide this morning was Paulo, who gave us an excellent 3 hour run down of the sights.
We all enjoyed lunch next to the Trevi Fountain - pizza and gelato.
More news tomorrow after a day at the Vatican.
Every one is well and happy.
Cheers to all.
Deb and Elly
Hi Mip,

Happy Easter, hope your having a great time. We are all well, Zara talks about you all day, misses you heaps. Easter Bunny was up to his usual tricks... Humpty Dumpty... Zac was so impressed. Zara wanted to sleep in our bed, I had to explain nicely that if she does Easter Bunny will not happen... Seems like you have been gone for weeks. Zac spends all day trying to sneak into "Intensity" your room of course. He couldnt wait for Glenn to leave. By the way dont worry he didnt sleep in your bed, he bought his own with him. (what the) Zacs happy though he made $50 at hotdogs on Saturday. They have gone up to $3 so he wants a payrise. Dad is happy now that Manly finally won a game. Are you sure he didnt go with you, I havent seen him all weekend as he has been at work.. Wombles,Lyn & the girls called in on Sat, I gave Briahn your myspace address so she can spread the word around Wagga, you guys will have lots of groupies now. I miss not hearing you playing the guitar already, I go onto your website to hear you sing...
Have a great time, hope you have had a nice big meal by now.
Hugs & Kisses
we love you.
Burgess Bunch xx
Hi Timothy,
Hope you are enjoying the trip, raining in Tumut got wet camping. Nicholas is sleeping over tonight just so we dont miss u so much, remember the camera, heaps of photos please, enjoy.
Love Mum, Dad, Ell and Nick
Hi Britt,
Footy tipping for this week was 6 out of 8, not too good on the margins. Seems like Mr Burns follows AFL so he may be able to help u with ur tips for next week. Hope u are enjoying ur tour of Rome today. Just finished our busy weekend, missed u in the takeaway!! Looking forward tothe next installment.
Love mum

Some Footy Results

Mr Burns, hi, how are you?
Just thought i would let you now the footy results...Geelong 122 def Collingwood 95/ StKilda 161 def West Coast 64/Essendon 116 def Carlton 112/ Brisbane 100 def Sydney 67/ Port Adelaide 147 def Melbourne 90/ Hawthorn 123 def North Melb 69/ Adelaide 104 def Fremantle 80/ Western Bulldogs 110 def Richmond 63. So yay, the Bulldogs are 3 from 3. Good news.
Also Burnsy, Metal Bender is still running. No good there. Didn't even come a place worth mentioning.
Anyway, thats all, no other news from Wagga. Have a great time and stay safe.
Love Mrs Burns XX

Hello Lisa

Looking forward to seeing a report on your day.

Tell James if the Swedes have not left by the time you get home, he might be able to come and stay a couple of days.

Talbingo a little quieter tonight, all the Easter visitors have headed off today.

From Melinda - Lisa's mum

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Elly Vanags - PUK Code

Hi mum,

It was great to talk to you. By the time you read this you will probably be back from your tour of Rome. Hope you had a great time.

Dad and I are very happy not to be going to work tomorrow, Lau and I will ease him into life in the Shire...coffee in Cronulla is on the agenda! If the rain stops pouring we will head into the city for the day.

Take care, love

Maira, Laura and Didz

Hello Ethan

Hope that you are doing well so far and that you managed to get some chocolate for easter. Kellie, Nathaniel and Randall all say hi and wish you the best on your journey. Nathaniels friend in NZ that was in the car accident is out of the coma and doing well so he is a happy camper. Best news is that Melbourne Storm won on the weekend. Stay Safe and enjoy. Dad

Hi From Penrith

Hi Stace
Glad your Trip is going fine so far & your having heaps of fun. Jean & Rick are with us this weekend & say Hi. The girls are about to go to the Plaza for a shopping spree & Rick & I are looking after the little man. After that we are going to the Pub for a bet & beer. Anyways, have a great time & enjoy yourself & don't get up to too much trouble.... Keep in touch & we will check in daily to see your progress
Love Brett, Em, Riley, Rick & Jean
xoxox

Hi Stace

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE
How was the trip to Rome?
Guessing that you are very tried because you like to have at least 12hours sleep every night lol.
Had a bbq lunch with the Becketts and the Weirs, played spicks and specks and we missed you (had to play Beckett's rules) lol can't wait to hear from you hope you ring soon.

Love Meg and Family xoxo

From Burradoo

Mr Deitz,
Greetings from the family resort. The cuisine has been as good as it gets! The easter eggs are almost gone, and we are all fine. Aston has impressed us all with his french, Greer not too bad either, although D'Arcy and Dimity are not sure about it all. Anyhow enjoy your trip

Mum & Dad

Hi David,
Glad you are in Rome. Is anything open????? (Churches being the exception of course). Hope the Easter Bunny finds you all, but failing that, have a coffee for me and some pizza. We are doing great. Kids are really happy - but hey, a photo of you out the front of some huge landmark would be really good (in fairness, Aston and Greer would only get excited if it was the fast food variety). Everyone looked great in Seoul - but I see the red tops have been ditched by some of the girls (fashion or necessity?) Have a great day - are you all awake?
Take care of your good selves,
Lynlea, Aston & Greer.

Message from Aluntie Al

Hi darling,

hope you are having a great time
all well here and Nanny is enjoying your bed and TV to fall asleep on.
I believe the weather is a lovely 20+degrees.
take lots of photos.
Love,
Al and Kids. xxxx
From the Malone family; Happy and safe Easter to you all. Hope the Easter bunny found you in Korea (if not Chris, he found you at home)Caught up with cousins Amelia, Andrew,Grace and Peter tonight over roast lamb and waffles for desert. Have fun.
Hi everyone. Hope the plane flight was not too long and you are not too jetlagged. Looking forward to seeing lots more photos on your travels and especially the first report on the radio.

Tracey (Britts mum)

Hi Everyone

Hope you are having a fantastic time. We are all very excited this end about your trip - it is a dream come true for all of you. Megs - miss you heaps but know you must be having the time of your life and most probably not missing us that much, lol! Enjoy every minute and remember to try some French chocolate...Hope you have or will have a good flight to Rome and are able to catch up on some sleep before you start sightseeing ... lots of coffee guys!!!
From the Schumer Family..
PS. Your horses are fine Meg - we have had some rain and hay is on its way tomorrow.

Hello Travellers

Ah I remember the great trips I had with Tumut High. This year sounds great, especially the fantastic street you are staying on in Rome. While part of me would like to be going with you I know how busy you will be and I am enjoying relaxing after a long term.
Enjoy yourselves and embrace all the new experiences that will be offered to you. I will follow you from a distance.
Melissa Ferrara

Saturday, April 11, 2009

We have made it as far as Korea. Just look at these happy faces enjoying their breakfast at the Hotel Zeumes -Seoul. All of our travel has been trouble free and no one has had to sit next to or hold Mr Deitz's hand (yet). Today we will fly out of Seoul to Rome at 1.30pm local time. It will be a long flight again but everyone is so excited that we will be there before we know it. Bye for now :)

(TEB)

Hi Guys
Hope your bus trip and plane trips went well and they looked after you. Hope the "Hilton" was very comfortable. Just thought we'd let you know that last night the Easter Bunny came and we also had some beautiful rain! Can't wait to hear about your travels and first days of your adventure.
The Webb Family (Hayley)

Friday, April 10, 2009

Hi Everyone

Noticed on the Internet that the flight got away pretty much on time this morning. I bet you are all feeling very tired after such a long trip. Look forward to reading the reports once they start coming in. Overcast in Tumut/Talbingo, no rain unfortunately. Hope everyone is travelling OK.

Melinda - Lisa's mum