bubble gum boots: April 2011

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Sydney - Anzac Day

Anzac Day is a day of remembrance of Kiwis and Aussies killed in the war, as well as a day to honor returned service men and women.

The date itself marks the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers (which is where the Anzacs name comes from). 8,500 Australians and 2,721 Kiwi lost their lives in this battle. Your can read more about Anzac day at the New Zealand History. Anzac day begins with a sunrise ceremony, a parade, and a sunset ceremony, all of which are held at various locations in both countries.

In honor of Anzac Day, Sydney holds a parade where all those who have served in the military march proudly through the streets of Sydney with their war medals clinking solemnly on their suit coats. The parades are emotional, and it was moving to see the surge of patriotism as the Aussies braved the cold rain with flags and applause in honor of those who served.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Sydney - Taronga Zoo

One of the baby elephants holding the other under water

The giraffes, they don't need mascara for their eyelashes

If this picture doesn't make you want a cute cuddly Koala, then nothing will.

Koala stretch

My favorite picture from the zoo, done by my Michael.

Sydney - Taronga Zoo 2

I might have been the oldest person to sit with the Koala all day

On the ferry back to Sydney

Sydney at sunset

more of the Opera house, we are obsessed

On the ferry, this time with a huuge asian family

Sydney - Ferry to Taronga

Amazing street performer in Sydney, plays the Didgeridoo

The men who inspired the didgeridoo

Something about this picture, is absolutely stunning

me, on the ferry with a huuge Indian family

Opera House in the day time

Australia Naval ships

Opera house, bridge, stone thingie :D

More of the Opera House

Sydney - Opera House 3

Did you know the entirety of the Opera House is actually tiled? Me neither.

Ooh moon over Sydney

Sydney Harbour at night

more of the opera house, note the blurry people, bustling by and not enjoying the view

Sydney Tower, apparently the architecture of the tower allows it to withstand wind speeds expected once every 500 years, and it also has a water tank at the top that acts as a stabilizer.