And we're back...

It’s been forever since I’ve written and I apologize. So much has happened! Let me update you…

The seasons have changed. Summer was very, very hot. The summer days reminded me of my time in Florida. Each day was nice in the morning but by 1300-1400 the temperatures reached all time highs and the heat was almost unbearable. No matter how hot it got though, it was never completely unbearable. I did learn to carry a fan in my bag at all times and that turned out to be a saving grace. I must say, riding my bike was also a good thing - nothing like having the wind in your hair on a hot day. I can understand why riding a motorcycle is so alluring.

It’s October now and well, Summer is gone and the heat almost forgotten. Some may be wishing for it again soon. Fall is upon us and it’s wonderful. Chilly mornings and evenings – days full of sun and enough warmth. Jackets are optional for the most part however, I believe the days are soon coming when jackets will be mandatory.

With the change of the seasons, a change in address also occurred. I’ve moved to a different part of Turkiye. I am in a city which is located at a higher altitude which means cooler temperatures and snow! I am so looking forward to winter and the precipitation it will bring – hopefully in the form of snow. Of course, yesterday, we had a thunderstorm that lasted about 15 minutes but in that short time, the sun was shining, then the rain came (as if dumped) and then hail rang as it hit the glass windows and then, the sun was out once more. One must be quick not to miss the wonders of Mother Nature here, it seems. J

I’ve had the opportunity to host a friend from home (America) here recently. We made the mandatory stops in Istanbul – SutanAhmet, the Grand Bazaar, etc. We also went to Izmit and some cities nearby. It was lovely. The scenery, the friends, the tea – all were wonderful. I really enjoyed being able to show off Turkiye and some of it’s wonder to a fellow American.

I’ve fallen in love… with this country. It’s a beautiful hidden gem. The people, the culture and of course, the food, are all wonderful. My new home, in Eskisehir, is in the city centre and although the view is nothing like it was in Izmit, the view has its own beauty. The city sleeps but not very long. A few hours in the early morning is all. So, there is a lot to do and see. I will be going out soon to take pictures. For those of you on Facebook – you can see multiple postings of Eskisehir and the beauty it contains.

I will end here for today. I have internet again so I will be writing more regularly (at least once a week). Looking forward to hearing from you!