Time has continued to move quickly. It is rather interesting that I have not found myself bored here. I always have something I can do and somewhere I can go. In fact, with two days off recently, I made it to Bursa ... it's a city fairly close to Izmit. It is known for it's history, food, and University. I was very lucky to have some local tour guides. They took me from one end of the city, it seemed, to the other.

I went into my first Mosque in Bursa. I didn't know what to expect but it wasn't what I found. I guess I was thinking it would be like the historical churches I had visited in my other travels. I remember the first time I went into an old Church in Sicily - it was beautiful in a low-light sense of wonder kind of way and had an air of solemn tranquility. One did not want to talk or make a noise as to disturb the

atmosphere. Almost like one had gone back into history for a visit. With this in mind, walking into the Mosque was quite different.

The Mosque was very large and open and airy. It was well lit and bright. There was a "sky light" (for lack of a better description) in the middle which allowed natural light in and illuminated a fountain. The fountain took up the middle of the floor with water flowing gently over the edges into a pool. The gentle sounds of water and prayer were heard. It gave one a soothing feeling. As is well here, kind of thing. The Mosque was beautiful as well, with carvings and Arabic writings in gold ... uniquely beautiful.

We visited many places and saw wonderful artisans and their work in everything from shells to silk. Ultimately, we visited Tophane. It is on the top of a hill and was once used as a lookout post for invaders. The lookout is still there and it is beautiful! The view from this place should not be missed!

Having only a day really to spend in Bursa, it was lovely. The company was wonderful and I got to see more of Turkish culture. I am very thankful to my Grandmother for she taught me very early in my life to appreciate the art of playing cards. In Turkey, this is also important. My tour guides, and friends, and I spent the evening trading card games. I've found that I've missed playing cards. It really is a great way to spend the evening with friends.

Of course, leaving Bursa one can not miss the IKEA. It is conveniently located next to the bus station (otogar). So, yes, I did make a stop in there. :)

I've also had the privilege to attend a traditional Turkish wedding. Having never seen any wedding other than an American wedding, I was very curious to see the differences and similarities (if any). The wedding was not an event… it was a holiday. It started on Saturday and continued through Sunday night. It was a lot of fun. Although I was not able to attend Saturday evenings’ events, I was there for Sunday at the coiffeurs and then the ceremony. It was lovely. Music, dancing and family were all there. It was a wonderful day and I am so happy for the new couple as well as having the opportunity to share the day with them.

I will say this about Turkish culture, there is an overall air of love, well-being and fun. I don’t see these people as those that worry about the small things… instead they appreciate the little things. Each act is received with true appreciation, no matter the size. It is very enlightening to be among people who appreciate what’s really important, family and friends. Each day I spend in Turkey is a day that I will cherish for a lifetime.

Unexpected Pleasures

WOW!! It's July already! This year is just flying by! I can hardly believe I have been here in Turkey for almost four months. I can say that my Turkish has improved since my arrival... I can tell when Turks breath between words now... jk ... actually, I can understand much of what is being said. The language seems to be focused on verbs... now that I can recognize those, I'm doing fairly well.

The weather continues to get hotter... I'm starting to get used to it. What else can you do? Actually, I'm sporting a fierce tan - one not unlike those I used to work for in my youth. I have no desire to get darker but riding my bike and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible works against me there. No matter... too much to see and do!

My flat has become home. I have perde - curtains. I know, the first time in my life that I've hung curtains on my own... normally, I go without but it's necessary here. :) I've actually cooked in my apartment as well. Scary but true. Don't worry, it was only breakfast after all, I don't have a stove in my flat. I just have a hot plate (which is more than enough). ha ha

I've managed to travel, locally... I've made it to the Black Sea (Karpe) again, Gebze, and Degemendere. (spelling?) The Black Sea was lovely - I went swimming and hung out with some friends. The day was perfect, the sea was cool and the company, very nice.

In Gebze, I was able to join a "coming of age" celebration. It was a traditional celebration with music, dancing, family and fun! The music was traditional Turk Folk Music ... something that I've found here, many of the villages have area traditional dances ... everyone learns them and everyone, young and old, gets out and dances. Needless to say, I was dancing all night. It was wonderful.

One thing that I found really inspirational... belly dancing. That's right, the traditional belts with the "jingles" on them were found and the castinettes brought out. I even wore the belt and did my own belly dance! Evidently, I did it fairly well, I had money tucked into my belt ... by women. :) No hour workout in a gym could do more for you than a half hour of belly dancing! WOW!

Across the bay in Degemendere is a lovely, seaside town. The people are laid back with an air of "Carpe Diem". The food is very good and everyday is an outside market that sells wears from around the area. Many pieces of handmade jewelry can be found here, metals and leathers. For an afternoon of meandering and browsing, this is the perfect place to go. :)

Life remains great here in Turkey... I'm looking forward to the next opportunity to explore even more of Turkey ... I'm loving it, especially the dancing! Who knew???