Mint Chocolate Lipstick

Photos from Cappadocia, Urgup, and Goreme

2012-07-22T22:39:00.000-05:00

Michael climbing through old doorways in Goreme

Daisys in a Canyon

My daily view in Urgup

Just chillin' in the Selime Cathedrale, NBD.

Goreme, Jesus on the cross

While climbing up the castle in Cappadocia...

Goreme - tall builing is the nunnery

Urgup, what a view!

Almost to the top of the castle in Cappadocia

Pigeon Valley - Cappadocia

Derinkuyu underground city, a church... a million stories undergroung (kidding of course)

It's a restaraunt... in the middle of a canyon... made out of comfty cushions... seriously.

Cathedrale... We climbed to the top of that lighter colored rock on the right.

The castle in Cappadocia is the mountain on the left. Michael and I climbed to the very tippy top. Yes. I was SCARED.

Carvings right down the street from where we stayed in Urgup... smelled like piss.

Carved caves and pigeon holes in a canyon

Three Beautifuls (translation) - Urgup

Sorry that they are so mixed up
Also note: i barely editing (I KNOW, ME?!) The sky was actually the colors you see in the photos, it was insane.
More later :)

All Aboard the Sarkoy Express

2012-07-21T02:33:00.001-05:00

IF ONLY. The so called "sarkoy express" doesn't exist, but if it did I would have been on it!

The trip to Sarkoy took a marvelous 11 hours.

At this point, I could become a professional packer and I can now easily find comfortable ways to sit on the bus that will allow me to sleep. I'll tell you, it is not an easy feat.

Listening to T.Swift while dozing out... using Michaels stomach for a pillow. Ah the life!

At the rest stop we ate "tost" (toast.. with cheese in the middle). I then heard some English... naturally I'm drawn towards the speakers. Greek bikers. Harley bikers, no less (@Dad). May I also add, cranky, hungry, bikers. YIKES. They were angry at the turkish servers for not understanding their english or greek. I was getting ready to photograph a really epic fight when sweet Michael stepped in and helped translate that the bikers in fact wanted some water and cups of ice. Fight worthy, indeed.

We jumped back on the bus to Canakkale and another bus to Sarkoy. Then we walked a few blocks to the summer house. By this point, I was tired, cranky, and ready to start a fight myself. Michael and I went to the market and bought some food then we went home ate and we were all pretty ready to take a nap. However, we ended up visiting his aunt and uncle to say hello. May I just say their garden was absolutely adorable! Garden full of veggies complete with fruit trees, a gazebo covered in vines and a beautiful golden retriever (Duff) to top it all off.

Sorry about the dark picture, apparently it cannot be edited because I don't "own the photo" hmm.

Computers these days.

The next day, Michael and I went to the beach! I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I was to jump in some cold water... it was such a hot day that the water was like bath water. STILL! I got to go swimming! Michael and I ran toward the sea to find out that the first 15 feet were a ton of rocks... OW! I forgot my water shoes that first day, and thank god I had yet to buy my goggles... explanation to come.

We swam for a good hour and a half and then went off shopping. Clear water like this, I was in need of goggles and a snorkel. Last December, I took a trip with my Nana and found out that I really love snorkeling! I could spend forever out there checking out the under water life.

Back to present, we found affordable, decent quality snorkels and Michael got some water shoes, I was also in need of some heavy duty, waterproof sunblock. Check, check, check!

The next day the travelling must have caught up to me because my butt was going no where except on the big orange floral swing with my kindle. I was determined.

Boy. I'm attractive. Unfortunately its the only proof I've got.

Day four and we got out and went swimming again, this time with his cousin, aunt, uncle, mother and Emily. We had a blast. I used my snorkel and realized that you pretty much couldn't step anywhere without encountering a crab or hermit. [insert shiver here] the day before I was out there without water shoes on!? Never. Again.

Unfortunately, I broke my underwater camera in Mexico last winter. Applause? For me?

So no crab photos for you.

Michael and I stayed where we could touch the bottom, the waves were small, but we still wanted to be careful. Snorkel we did, for almost three hours! Then we sat on the beach and at corn on the cob.

Over the next few days we swam two more times. The final time we went swimming we had plenty of fun. Fish here are apparently not afraid of humans. I was walking/swimming, literally, inside schools of fish. They didn't seem to notice that I lacked gills. Cute little green fish, they were fun. I still had my worries about those crabs. I saw a few larger then my fist and I'll tell you those were some dramatic moments. I don't think I like crabs. The hermit crabs I could deal with, but some of those little guys aren't so little. Michael and I decided to go out a little deeper that day and see what was under water there. I swear, I've learned my lesson!

I put my foot down to see how deep we were, when I touched the sand a sting ray came from literally a centimeter away from my foot. Michael was feet away and he heard my scream underwater. Thank God I WAS underwater when I screamed. It hurt my own ears. I'm sorry but sting rays were not on my list of must see under water creatures... at least not when I'm stepping on them and they are probably really pissed off wanting some stinking sting ray revenge!

Breathing.

After my... encounter, I decided I didn't really want to swim anymore.

So I sat on the beach and made a rock castle. It was not worth seeing, trust me, so I took no photo. I did however make a really cute puppy. Now that I took a photo of!

We then spent the remainder of our time at the beach taking photos. Because we just cannot get any more cool.

Super-Katy

Just chillin' in the air.

"Pokemon Emily uses super punch... it's very effective. Pokemon Michael fainted."

As I get to this point on my week, I believe I will save the rest for a separate post.

Also, I wanted to let everyone know that apparently comments aren't working right now. People keep trying to leave them, I never the notifications. Try if you will but don't be shocked when I never see them.

Enjoy your day!

No longer a teenager, not yet an adult?

2012-07-10T17:28:00.000-05:00

How Much Can I Cram Into One Post?

First of all, you should know that there will not be a post (or at least a long post) for at least the next 12 days.

I know, I know the world is ending. ;)

Michael and I somehow got covered in the clay while we were making pots and flowers. Thought I would share my detailed moustache!

The other day michael and I went shopping, because I am STILL in need of some clothes.

I came home with one tank top which I love.

I also know that a certain friend of mine, DK, loves orange and will most likely be permanently "borrowing" it from me once I get home! :P

Love you Koko!

We walked a lot that day, it was excersize that was needed.

The following day, I was, again, not feeling good in the morning. This heat + sinuses = Super painful

Happily, toward the afternoon the heat was less, so I decided that I was in much need of jogging!

I said I would be jogging everyday... that was before I felt the exhaustion and dizziness that the sinus pressure is causing me.

SO I am happy to AT LEAST say that I went jogging once!!

AND I went a whole mile in the 85 degree weather!

*bow*

Michael didn't like jogging very much...

we stopped at one of the many "work out" areas along the track...

apparently, moving your arms in tiny circles is an extreme work out.

I'm glad that I have been kick boxing and jogging many miles at home all this time, when all I needed to do was stand in place and move about 2 inches to each side in order to be fit.

I guess its hard to explain. Easier? The "work out equipment" fails at working anything out, except my brain. I spent way too much time trying to figure out how to work each one and what I must be doing wrong since I felt no "burn".

OOF..

When we continues jogging I came across some adorable furry friends.

PRECIOUS. The black one was following me so I HAD to stop.

I was carrying a water bottle with me so I poured a little on the track and apparently they were very thirsty. They drank half my bottle!!

I ended up pouring a ton of water into a leaf contraption that I, so smartly ;), created and they went to town.

I felt so bad for them. Apparently, it is kitten season. THEY ARE EVERYWHERE.

After I gave them water, I think I became their mommy. A very unsuccessful game of following the leader began when I started jogging again.

Sad!

When Michael and I got home we were pooped.

I convinced him to play skip-bo with me and when Mo got home we taught him to play too.

Have you ever noticed that when you love a game, and you try to teach someone, you HAVE to make their experience fun, otherwise they will never want to play with you again?

I failed.

This is what happened to Mo his first time playing Skip-Bo.

9. 9. 9.. 9...9... 9.

Needless to say, he never wants to play again.

Speaking of 9's, July 9th happened to be my birthday.

20 years old

No longer a teenager, not yet legally an adult.

I'm not yet sure what I'm classified as.

Michael and I went first to his college, he had a meeting, and I met one of his friends.

Then we walked to Agora Mall and I went shopping.

More shirts.

I ate Sabarro!! Is that how you spell it?

PIZZA!

It was delicious.

But I also helped myself to some of Michael's Popeye's chicken.

How could I resist!?

After the mall we went home where I was surprised by Emily returning home!

I went to change my clothes and when I came back Emily grabbed me and pushed me into the family room. They set up a little party for me! It was so cute!

Anne made me a homemade birthday cake, scone chocolate chip cookies, something made from grape leaves and rice, and a type of buscuit with cheese in it. Emily also pointed out that she tried to decorate the living room for me.

I love them!

I then spent the remainder of my night working on the puzzle I got from the mall.

PUZZLE!

I was/am so excited!

Currently, I am about... 1/8th of the way through the puzzle. I said I wanted a hard one. I overestimated my puzzle making skills.

Tomorrow, early in the morning, Michael, Emily, Anne and I are all leaving for the summer house! I finally get to go swimming, yay! But I also have a lack of internet connection. Internet cafes, here I come!

Time for some fun in the sun!

First week of July

2012-07-06T18:47:00.001-05:00

We have been home from Cappadocia for about a week now.

Mission: go on adventures = slow go.

I have had terrible sinus pressure...pain.

We have gotten out a few times when it wasn't as hot.

HA! Who am I kidding, it is always hot in Izmir!

I hear there is a drought at home... we haven't had a drop of rain since I came here either.

I thought that I would be cooking a lot while I was here,

the problem is that most of the ingredients that I need, I have been unable to find them in stores...

Basil for one. I love basil.

So the other day I had a major american junk food craving.

I needed pizza.

Last time I got pizza in Turkey, we got some from Dominos in Istanbul.

It.Was.Awful.

This time we again ordered Dominos, hoping that Izmir's restaurant would actually know how to peel an onion and not just throw the whole thing on the pizza.

Lucky me, the pizza was a success!!

It was delicious for an american dying for grease.

In the past week we have also managed to make our way the WHOLE 2 blocks to the fair area.

Hooray!

We went on the roller coaster, where they did NOT check seat belts or harnesses. There was one tiny loop-de-loop on the ride so I was pretty concerned.

It was, without hesitation, the absolute WORST ride I have EVER been on.

You thought the Iron Wolf was bad?! Try this ride that is over 15 years old and obviously has never had any maintenance testing done.

I thought my head was going to pop clear off my shoulders.

I'm just saying, I wouldn't be shocked if there have been several concussions.

Rant over, photo below.

After the painful ride, we decided to go on something more... calm.

We went in the fun house. Let me just say, even after 5 years of haunt experience, I have never seen more... disgusting props. Rooms were complete with naked women and molesting vampires... I won't continue. Note: if you ever see a haunted house is Turkey (not likely, but still) do not go in.

We decided to save our last tickets... for later. I wasn't really in the mood to go on more rides after that.

The following day, Michael and I went shopping at the bazaar. I came home without any new clothes (sad face) but we did end up buying a toe nail clipper and some clay!

What great finds!

Yesterday, we began making marvelous creations out of the clay. Michael worked hard on a decorative vase and I... worked on keeping the clay from sticking to my hands.

I did manage to make a little jar, or something, with a lid. Also, a heart with a cicek (flower) on it for his mother, Anne. She LOVES flowers.

That was my 4th of July!

Today I made dinner, chicken salad :)

Easy, delicious, and healthy. (no Cesar dressing in sight)

Michael and I then went on a date to see The Amazing Spiderman.

I give it 3.5/5 stars. Not bad, I liked the actors, but Spiderman made me angry... I kept saying "What a brat! I want to smack him!"

Taxi home where we sat on the balcony, as always, and a HUGE moth flew in the house. Adventures in trying to capture it with a dust pan....

pics later as I said.

Time for bed!

Goodnight!

Bellydancing in the Living room

2012-06-30T10:09:00.000-05:00

Last post for June 2012!

Welcome July!

Recap of last night's events.

After the tour and exploring Urgup, Michael and I headed to the bus station, back to Metro.

There were three buses for Metro lined up. Two really nice Mercedes and the last one was, of course, the one that broke down a million times.

Guess which bus we were told to get on.

Our seats were also broken and the tv's wouldn't turn on.

LUCKILY

We were transferred to another bus.

to add to this... luck of ours
The nice bus's tv's didn't work either.

Oof.

When we got back to Izmir I passed out and slept almost all day.

When I finally rose from the dead, Emily was waiting impatiently.

"I Cok Bored!"

Apparently this inspired Michael to teach me to belly dance.

There is a video too, but I'm not allowed to post it apparently.

We hung around the rest of the day putting cucumbers on my sunburn and playing Go Fish with Mo.

Perfect day back home in Izmir :)

Cappadocia - Day 2

2012-06-29T09:36:00.000-05:00

Instead of wandering around again and walking, God only knows how many miles, we decided to take a tour.

We really didn't know much about it when we signed up... just that it would go to an underground city that I wanted to see.

First stop, a view of Goreme and the "fairy chimneys"

(Below)

Back on the bus and we drove to Derinkuyu, the deepest undergound city out of 36.

There were 11 floors total, only 10% of the city has been excavated, and each floor was built to be closed off from the inside. It is believed that this was to keep people in for months to guard them from an enemies attack.

The entire city could comfortably fit 35,000-50,000 people.

On the first floor we found a kitchen (mutfak) and a wine press. Throughout the city there are also oil presses, storage areas, chapels, and stables. Derinkuyu is connected to several other cities underground. Some of those cities were used by Christians to escape persecution.

The city dates back to 7th & 8th century in the Bronze age.

During the 10th century, it is believed that the city was expanded in order to hold more refugees for religious purposes.

(Below)

The oldest part of the undergroung city and closest to the surface. The kitchen.

I'm underground!

After the adventures underground we jumped on the bus for 45 minutes and drove to Ihlara Valley. I seem to be visiting a lot of places where there is a serious chance of me falling... far. Especially with how clumsy I am.

On that note, this trip has really shown me just how much of a clutz I can be.

Katrina's list of accidents (so far):

Times Tripped...dramatically - 5

Times broken something - 3

Times slammed doors - 4

Times hit head on something hard - 9... +

Times bumped into someone - 2

Times tripping down stairs - 2

Times dropping food on myself - 3

Times knocking someone with my backback - 1

... more to come im sure.

Back on topic.

Ihlara Valley

This valley is made from volcanic rock. The carvings along the Melendiz River were done by early Christians. This canyon is 450 feet deep. Throughout, there are more than 150 caves and churches.

One church that we visited was Agacalti Church.

(Below)

At the end of the long hike through the valley we stopped and ate lunch.

Chicken Kabobs and rice.

After lunch it was back on the bus again and we drove up the canyon and to Selime.

Selime was my favorite place that we visited in Cappadocia.

The Selime Cathedrale

Selime was built in the 19th century and was named for the sultan.

The rock formations are full of churchs and a school monastary.

Christian monks carved it out.

We climbed as high as we could go. The section that was the highest had a winding staircase. I ran up the narrow stair case and stopped abruptly since it dropped off, oh I don't know... 150 feet. We inched across the little bit of stone left and were able to climb upstairs. Terrifying is one way to word it... but climbing down was much worse. I was so scared I yelled to Michael, "I am NEVER doing this again!" An old gentleman from a crowd of people yelled back, "Yes, honey, you're probably right. You'll never get a chance to do anything like this again."
Good point.

We went back to the bus for another hour of driving and ended up at Pigeon Valley, the same valley that we visited yesterday and we also went to a jewelry store where they carved some Onyx stone and gave it to me.

When we got back to Urgup we grabbed our bags and walked around town where I bought some interesting items. Couldn't resist... I am a tourist after all.

Good bye Urgup!

Good bye Cappadocia!

Cappadocia - Day 1

2012-06-28T03:40:00.000-05:00

After an exhausting day of traveling and site seeing
I still managed to wake up bright and early to eat (yemek) breakfast.

Good-Morning (Gunaydin) Urgup!

In Urgup

(Above)

Yesterday we were very tired of walking... but it was nothing compared to how much we walked today. I'm pretty sure that this street sign stands for "legs breaking".

(below)

First stop in Cappadocia,

Goreme Open Air Museum

This 7 story rock was the nunnery and monastery in Goreme.

The bottom floor has a kitchen (mutfak) and dining hall

The many other floors included tunnels that led to several churches. Many tunnels collapsed since.

Notice how tall it is.

(above)

Church entrance in Goreme

(above)

Carikli (Sandals) Church

(below)

The church is named for two footprints that are below the ascentation of Jesus.

The rumors are that they are Jesus's foot prints, but that is not accurate.

Carikli has two floors. Throughout the church there are many scenes, 12 of them being stages in Jesus' life.

3 from His childhood, 2 in maturity, and 7 while suffering and ascending into heaven.

Fresco painting of the angel Gabriel

(Above)

In the center of the dome is Jesus.

Above him are angels. Below him are the authors of the Bible; Matta, Lucas, John the baptist and Marcus.

(Above)

Written in one of the frescoes is "I am the light of the World, who follows me will not be left in the dark." - Jesus Christ

Other paintings include Virgin Mary and angels Michael and Uriel.

Table (Masa) and seating around it

(Above)

Walking through tunnels

(Above)

A view of Goreme

(Above)

After Goreme, we began walking when we ran into a pottery shop and stable with horses. Horse back rides through Goreme? Sounds great, but we decided we still had a list of things we wanted to see before the day ended.

We did stop and take a few photos, though.

(Below)

We then walked through modern day Goreme and took a bus to Uchisar.

More walking through that town till we came to the castle ruins.

This was the most populated area in Uchisar until it became dangerous and people started moving away.

(Below)

After our climb to the very top of the castle (that big rock mass in the picture above) we then carefully went back down and walked through the town and marketplace, took a road that we guessed would lead us to a bus, and began walking again.

On our walk we ran into the World's largest rooster... at least by our standards.

(Below)

In the middle of our walk we passed a large area where we later found out was called Pigeon Valley.

The valley had holes and doors and rooms carved out for pigeons!

Of course we ran into a ton of the birds too.

(Below)

We finally found a bus station...bench and sat.

The Dolmus came and we went back to Urgup for some dinner...

After all the walking I figured we deserved some junk food.

Snickers!!

Tomorrow is the last day in Urgup and still many more places to see before heading back to Izmir!

How an 11 hour trip turned into a 20 hour trip.

2012-06-27T08:47:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we packed up and left for Cappadocia!

We jumped on an evening bus (otobus) ready to have some real adventures.

The bus ride was scheduled to be 11 (on bir) hours (saat).

Luckily the buses are really nice with tvs (televizyonler), right?

2 hours in we stopped in the middle of the highway. There was an accident. An animal ran into the road and a car filled with people hit it, flipping three times. I felt sick to my stomache and prayed to God that those people were okay...

I don't know how possible that would be though. Especially since most Turks don't wear seatbelts...

We drove again passing a ton of mountains and I couldn't help but be amazed at how beautiful the scenery was. I realized that Noah's ark was found about 200 miles from where I was at. That made me remember that the whole World had been flooded. It is really amazing to look up at a mountain that high and know that Noah and his family may have passed over it. God really is amazing!

8 hours in. Our bus broke down.

The wonderful employees apparently felt that it was none of out concern so they didn't share much information with any of the passengers...

until the 3rd time we broke down at a gas station.

We then broke down a 4th time in the middle of no where. When I say no where, I mean it.

I should be taking photos of underground tunnels right now, instead I am photographing a broken Metro bus.

They told us they fixed it.

We broke down a 5th time at a rest stop... where we sat with no news for over an hour.

We are officially 4 hours late.

Damper... yes.

But Michael and I continued to have fun, kind of.

A lack of sleep tends to put everyone a little on edge. (speaking for myself)

"Cay! Cay!"

(Tea! Tea!)

The waiters walked around serving tea while we waited. I sincerely felt bad for them having to deal with 40 cranky customers.

Finally we were able to load back on the bus and continue on our... adventure.

We finally made it, just 6 hours late.

We realized that people in the area apparently don't know what they are talking about because they said that the area we would be staying in would have nothing around for miles except bars. They also said that there would be no way for us to get to any attractions.

Hmph.

Well that is quite the trip ruiner.

Good thing they were completely WRONG.

After our bus breaking down 5 times, a shuttle, and a domus (another type of bus) later

We finally made it to our desintation.

Unfortunetly, our spirits did not make it at the same time.

We were nearing 8 hours past our original arrival time, exhausted, hungry, and carrying some very heavy back packs.

There was not too much in the cards for the day anymore since most of the tourist attractions were nearing closing time.

I can say that the area we stayed in was honestly one of the most beautiful places EVER.

My pictures can't really capture the view.

Everywhere you turned there was something else interesting to look at.

The town was so cute and a ton of interesting shops to look in.

The only thing it lacked was some water to go swimming in.

I still have yet to go swimming... I NEED TO SWIM.

For the rest of the day we walked around exploring Urgup (the town we stayed in) and we ate some yummy food. We were between mountains so we climbed to the top of the middle of them (very steep hill) luckily it was paved.

When we got to the top we walked down the road... even further (we walked a total of 2.5 miles to get there and back).

once near the top of the first road we saw, what I thought was, a bunch of sand. Sand = water right?

We climbed the mountain of "sand" to find it was solid rock.

Once we got to the top, we realized that there were some very interesting stones further up the mountain... climb we did.

What did we find? I'll let the photos explain.

Uc Guzeller (Three Beautifuls)

Mom, Pop, and Child

It is really...really high up. If you look to my left at that road and down between those hills/mountains, that is where we walked from. I was, quite literally, on top of the World.

Camel!!!

Me: "It's a camel!"

Michael: "No. It's fake."

Me: "No... I saw it move, why would they have a fake camel?"

Michael: "It's fake."

*Camel moves head*

Michael: "AH! Look it's a camel!"

Me: "Oofah!"

End of day 1 in Cappadocia/Urgup

Yes, I eat ships... don't you?!

2012-06-25T08:28:00.000-05:00

Today was project: get out and have some fun.

Challenge Accepted.

Emily (Michael's sister (abla) came with us. She is too fun!

We went to a street where they sold jewlery, books (kitaplar), and spices.

I checked out some of the jewlery and bought a few little knick knacks for my brothers.

Michael thought it was funny that there were stars on the path "just like Hollywood!"

We all walked around, visted some stores and ended up, like always, at the sea.

We listened to some live music (musik) and watched the sun (gunes) go down.

We also had some fun taking photos.

I'll write back soon!

Terrible Tourist

2012-06-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

June 24th -

It has been a few days since I ventured out into the heat for more then a walk. But today we finally decided that an adventure was needed.

We began by bowling.

To me, this is an adventure.

I have only gotten over 100 once in my life.

This is the sad truth.

The bowling here is the same although the balls were not smooth which (I SERIOUSLY BELIEVE) caused them to curve more then they should have. I mean, how can I throw so many straight down the middle just to have them magically end up in the gutter just before they meet the pins?

Michael won. He adds a "Woo-Hoo!" to that statement.

At least someone passed the 100 mark...

After bowling we got our favorite drink, lemonade poweraid, and made our way to the sea.

We sat on large rocks and enjoyed it whenever a random wave was able to splash enough to make a slight mist.

There are many people who try to sell things

it becomes quite irritating.

Any time we sit by the sea we are surrounded by women selling roses, complimenting Michaels "rose" (me) and when we say no (yok sal), about 6 times, they always stop and stare and click their tongues at us as if we came there that day planning to dissapoint them by not paying an outrageous amount for a single wilted rose.

This time we had a man (adam) who was selling kleenax...

while we were sitting he pushed himself in between Michael and myself and threw the tissues on my lap.

He apprently didn't realize that this was only going to make us upset.

I really don't understand why it's okay to do such a thing. Besides, he looked much better fed and dressed then some of the people around him.

Rant over.

We decided to randomly hop on a ferry boat and head to the other side of Izmir, which I have never been to.

How fun!

There wasn't much to see on the other side and Michael's side was obviously nicer but there was a very busy street that was fun to walk down. We ended up just walking around until we were tired and then we stopped for dinner at KFC... I'm a bad tourist (turist).

Once we were back on our side of Izmir, we stopped an got a soft serve ice cream cone.

Very nice evening over all.

We have begun making plans for a trip, as well!

Another Sick Day

2012-06-21T18:44:00.004-05:00

I think all this travelling caught up to me.

I was sick in bed again today.

Exciting news is, Emily, Michaels sister, came home today!

She is learning english, I am learning turkish... this works out well.

Today I studied a lot and found out that I now know a total of 78 words/phrases and I have learned to count. Michael also taught me how to use words plural (not as easy as it is for us to just add an "S") and I'm beginning to learn verbs.

Oof. This isn't easy.

I didn't take any pictures today... sorry!

But please enjoy this diagram that explains how to brush your teeth... like a man.

Life now makes sense.

Have a nice night! <3

New for Bucket List: Learn to make Lentil Meatballs

2012-06-20T17:41:00.000-05:00

There isn't much to say about today.

I woke up, ate breakfast, studied my Turkish and cleaned up for the day.

Plan: go to zoo

Reality: Katrina feels sick

Michael was so sweet and brought me a wonderful meal home from work

(I ate (yemek) most of it before I took the picture)

Lentil "meat"balls, "chicken stew", rice, and salad (salud).

With a side of lemonade (Limon).

We then spent the afternoon by my mini fan playing Farkle and I read a new book (kitap), "Branded"

I did manage to get some laundry done, though

And for dinner we went to, where else for an American, McDonalds!

Bebek Bunny

2012-06-19T15:30:00.001-05:00

Breakfast time!

"Cicek Ekmek" - flower bread, as we called it.

It has been a very hot day, as usual. I'm getting used to it now but we could definitely use some rain!

Today was a day for air conditioning so Michael and I went to a archaeology museum.

A lot of people might find this boring, but that is my place to be!

This is a statue of a man, it was found in Ephesos. Roman period. Second century A.D.

Look at the amazing detail! It looks as if they draped fabric rather than stone!

I don't know much about this piece but I could swear someone went to town with it with a sword or knife. If you look close, there appears to be slash marks across the whole face, only three even stroke across the neck, and multiple going downwards on the chest. Also, on the upper and lower forehead there are two slightly deeper gashes that are, to me, shaped like a cross. I walked around the statue and found these marks were no where else but the face and chest.

This is a statue of the Priest of the Imperial Cult. Roman period. Second century A.D.

This was also found in Ephesos.

The detail on this statue is just amazing. So smooth and beautiful!

He even still had his ring in perfect condition. The only park of this statue that didn't make it all the way to the museum were parts of this priests face.

I was a little freaked out to go near this exhibit. There were a bunch of tombs and when we saw this, we realized that it is a newborn babies tomb. If you look closely, you can see all the little bones, almost perfectly preserved. It is from the Byzantine Necropolis, on the left side of the Athena Temple. 8th Century A.D.

We then went into a museum with artifacts such as clothing, fabrics, and weapons. This specific exhibit made me laugh.out.loud. Look at the little boys face! I am not sure why they had an exhibit to show the circumcision room... but I couldn't resist!

And I may have had a little too much fun playing with the statues!

Michael and I then walked around the city and shopped a little, got subway for dinner, and headed home.

He has a picture of me as a toddler on his wall where I was dressed as a bunny for Halloween...

DRESS UP TIME!

His family had a laugh.

Goodnight!

Mustached Kediler

2012-06-18T14:49:00.003-05:00

Michael had work this morning so we went out in the afternoon after it cooled down a little.

First stop, Alsancak (al-san-jak)

A famous street with never ending shops and restaurants!

I went there once before but it was nearly empty and most of the stores were closed since it was cold.

Today it was thriving!

(keep in mind also it was about 93 degrees today and look what everyone was wearing!)

I then could not resist shopping. My wardrobe is seriously lacking pants since my shorts are considered too short for Izmir. I bought an adorable pair of pants and a pretty tulle skirt! (looks like a tutu to me but very much in style!!)

We went a little further till we came to the sea. This was a photo that Michael took of a statue on the coast.

I don't know the history of this statue but it is very interesting to look at the scene.

Last time I was here, Emily, Moe, Michael and I went for a walk and saw a cat which I swore had a mustache. I went back and took a picture of it to prove it and we all got a big kick out of it.

Today, while walking home, we found the same cat! Look how prominent that mustache (biyik) is! He is so distinguished!

I have not seen any squirrels here but there are plenty of wild pigeons, cats (kedi) and dogs. They all roam the streets and lounge wherever they please.

It's very hard not to go up to an adorable kitten or a puppy whose tail is wagging and pet them.

HOW CAN I RESIST IT?!

I just keep remembering that they are wild and could bite me if they saw reason.

But I can't help feeling bad.

Today Michael and I ate chicken so I brought the puppies (kopekler) the bones.

I hope they liked them and didn't take it personally that I cannot pet them.

Bruno Mars Told Me to be Lazy Today

2012-06-17T14:24:00.000-05:00

I woke up late when it was already hot outside... so I went back to bed and called it a lazy day.

I've been going on adventures since the day I got here so it was nice to just hang out.

OF COURSE it was the coolest day of the week ONLY 85 degrees.

Michael and I played on the ipad and then decided to make dinner...

we made calzones.

Maybe they don't look so good, but I did the best I could with the ingredients I had. They stated just fine!

I also ate some really garlic covered green beans... my breath could scare away a mountain lion.

No more updates for today... I'm going back to sleep... again.

Weddings, Castles and Carpets! OH MY!

2012-06-16T15:27:00.001-05:00

What better way to get to know Turkey then to step into an exciting event in a Turks life?

Today Michael, Anne and I went to a wedding in the park.

A Turkish wedding ceremony is very different from any ceremony that I have witnessed in America.

The ceremony takes a total of 10 (on) minutes. The bride and groom drove up in a go cart/limo, because of the location, together and went into the government building where about 75 guests waited. They sat at a table (masa) with a government ambassador (call her GA for short), maid of honor and man of honor. The GA stated that they were there for a marriage and asked if they wanted to be married for the right reasons. Bride and Groom both stated "Evet!" (yes) Then the room was asked if there were any objections to those statements. No one answered but one man in the audience yelled "Evet dediler mi?" (Did they say yes?) The bride and groom then signed their marriage license, took a photo and left the room. During the ceremony, no one was silent. People were talking among themselves and laughing cheerfully. In the next room, everyone lined up to greet the bridegroom. The bride then had a red sash put around her waist and a white sash around her neck and the groom had a sash around his. The people in the lines then went to them and attached their token, gold, coins, liras, and dollars.

Michael and I both had different ideas of how we should dress for a wedding. Guess who was right!

Him.

So I decided to hide my shame (ayip) and red lipstick in a tree.

I said in a different post that the weather changes dramatically through out the day. This morning, for instance, was about 70 degrees F, by 11 (on bir) it was 95 degrees F and by 5 (beS) it was down to 80 degrees F and now that the sun is down, it is easily around 65 degrees F.
With this being said, the wedding was at the hottest point of the day and I never realized how exhausting it is to be in the dry heat with little access to air conditioning. (my access being stores)

I'll admit. I took a few naps.

Then when it cooled down, Michael and I took two buses all the way up the mountains to Kadifekale to see a castle!

If there is something I love it is old buildings and ruins that are fading away.

We climbed the staircases, walked with the sheep and goats, and checked out the amazing views. While we were leaving we stopped by the mini marketplace that was set up and I was fascinated by a woman who was making a rug. She was kind enough to let us take photos, which Michael could not resist doing (since he is a master photographer from Kodak :P )

We also wanted to learn some history about the site. We found, what appeared to be, a huge hole in the ground. Upon investigation (add monocle) we found out that this hole used to be a church. When it was no longer used for its original purpose, it was used as a way to store water. The water would be held there and later they made a way for it to travel to Agora, down the mountain. I have been to Agora before but I didn't know much about it. Michael and I will be heading back to that old city soon!

The view from on top of the castle. Notice the Ferris wheel in the middle? That is called the center of Izmir.

I was a little too sheepish to get any closer to them... bah ha ha
(double joke fail)

A part of the castle walls from above.

The kind woman who let us photograph her.

The underground church that was later used to store water (Su).

That's all for today. I'm exhausted. Time to eat whatever that delicious looking dessert is that Anne made.

YUM.

Reunited with Borek

2012-06-15T14:56:00.003-05:00

My day began with Michael getting me borek for breakfast!!!
I could not have been more excited to eat my favorite pastry.
I chose the potato borek... yes please!

What a hot day! Today reached 100 degrees.

I keep learning more about the Turks every day.

For instance, in 100 degree weather, it is perfectly normal to wear blue jeans and a tee shirt.

In fact... almost everyone wears it. And no one sweats!?

It's pretty insane... and today we were going to be walking a lot so I decided to try my hand at wearing pants. Ah, well, capris.

Results...?

This is from just 10 minutes on a bus. Note: this never ever happens to me at home.

BUT I couldn't help but post it. I thought it was hilarious and spent the next 30 minutes laughing about it as we walked around town.

Michael bought me a Snickers to help me feel better :) Isn't he great?!

I now understand what its like to want to change your clothes 4 times a day.

I wore 4 outfits today.. not including my pajamas.

The weather changes so much that its necessary unless you want to be sweaty all day...

First stop on today's adventures: Dario Moreno Sokak

Izmir's Elevator

(Asansor - Asansoor)

This beautiful elevator (above) was huge and complete with its own restaurant.

The view was beautiful! You could see almost all of Izmir! We also witnessed a bride and her groom being photographed in front of the landscape. Her dress was ginormous and very sparkly... which means I loved it of course.

Then I realized that my wardrobe might not cut it...

so we went to the marketplace/bazaar

Kemeralti (Camer-all-tuh)

I think its definitely on my list of favorite places!

This picture was taken near the end of the miles and miles stretch of shops.

It was so insanely crowded that we had to wait till it cleared or you wouldn't be able to see!

And... I went home without any new clothes.

Next time!

Today ended with a very competitive game of Monopoly and a fresh plate of fruit.

Apples, Nectarines, Eriks, Watermelon, Strawberries, and Apricots.

Oha i'm stuffed...

Now for another Turkish lesson.

(today ill study food and verbs...oof)

Cicekler Ve Gunes

2012-06-14T15:24:00.003-05:00

Beauiful Izmir!

The Izmir fair area might be my favorite place
The track stretches more than 2 miles
and inside there is a fair and various workout equipment.

There is also a very... old and interesting fountain.

Kasvetli pool

This flower (Cicek) was bigger then my face!!

My Turkish learning abilities seem to be...
failing me.

I have so far learned Cicek, Sicak, Pasta, Tatli, and Masa

Flower, Hot, Cake, Dessert, and Table...

CONVENIENT!

Hello Izmir!

2012-06-14T02:49:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I took an 11 hour plane trip to Istanbul, Turkey where I met with a very excited Michael. We took another plane to Izmir and ate a wonderful meal. The weather last night was perfection but this morning I woke up just slightly overheated... who am I kidding, my room was an oven!

Jet lag has already set in and a nice headache to go along with it.

I've spoken to the folks and used the webcam to show them the street I'm staying on. They were particularly interested how blue the sky was (???)

I'm excited to get out and explore. It may be the same area that I was in two January's ago, but it is definitely a different Izmir. Much more life in the summer!

Packing.Packing.Eating american food. Packing.

2012-06-12T10:17:00.001-05:00

My stomach is in anxious, excited knots.

The plane will take off in just a short 12 hours!

I cannot forget to pack what I need. What am I forgetting?!

My early birthday present, Kindle Touch, will be my favorite companion on the plane.

Just to decide what to read...

I just finished the hunger games series. It was very good.

But I think I will read a classic on the plane.

Jane Austen? Emma? I think so!

The book is always better then the movie... but in "Emma"s case, I LOVE the movie nearly as much as I love the book!

Preparing to Prepare

2012-06-10T12:10:00.001-05:00

I am leaving for my trip to Turkey in two days

Trying to prepare everything.

So so so much to do!

I am finished with my job though which is a huge help

and gives me more time to get things done.

Updates soon!

Going crazy with excitement.

Harry Potter Cupcakes

2012-05-12T02:14:00.004-05:00

Seriously easy to make cupcakes

HARRY POTTER?!

Yes please.

View these yummy samples

Easy recipe? I may share the moist cupcake recipe soon.

However for the decorating...

Frosting:

1 CUP powdered sugar

1-2 TBSP water (or milk)

1/2 TSP vanilla

Fondant:

4 OZ mini marshmallows

2 CUPS powdered sugar

1 TBSP water

Food coloring to desire

Decorations:

2 CUPS Chocolate or decorating chocolate (from the craft aisle)

First things first, Frosting, mix the powdered sugar, vanilla, and water (or milk) together.

If you would prefer it more runny add more [water or milk]

More dense? Less water or milk..

Makes sense right?

The fondant is more time consuming.

Melt the marshmallows in the microwave for 30-45 seconds (its ready when marshmallows are puffy)

Mix with spatula (rubber works best) until it is smooth and no longer lumpy.

IF NEEDED, RETURN TO MICROWAVE.

This is the point where you should add your food coloring

(I recommend splitting it up so you can make different colors)

Add the powdered sugar and stir until it becomes too solid to mix

Poor onto wax paper and knead, much like bread. It will help to add powdered sugar to your hands.

Continue until all stickiness is gone.

If you want to add more color to your fondant (or make it brighter) now would be the time to do so.

Shape into a ball.

My favorite part is the decorations.

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler and fill a large Ziploc bag once it is smooth,

cut one of the bottom corned off,

and squeeze your desired shapes onto a sheet of wax paper.

Let it sit for 30-60 minutes.

Ingredients ready? Great!

Use the frosting as glue for the fondant.

Place fondant in desired shapes and arrangements.

Add decorations.

EAT.

Delicious? Sugary? Yes!

Katy's Peanut Butter Squares

2012-05-11T00:16:00.001-05:00

Craving Chocolate and Peanut butter, eh?

So was I... so I concocted this delicious beauty.

Katy's Peanut Butter Squares

1 package of low fat graham crackers (app. 24 crackers)
1.5 cups of Jiffy Natural Peanut Butter (or if you have one healthier then that, try it as long as it doesn't have to be refrigerated)
1 stick unsalted Butter
1 bag Ghiradelli - Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler.

Put the graham crackers in a large Ziplock bag and smash them however you like... be creative :) Mash them until they are the size you want. (I prefer them really mashed up)

Melt the stick of butter and mix it with the graham crackers, then add the peanut butter.

Spread the peanut butter/graham cracker mixture into a pan (preferably a glass pan) and pack it in.

Poor your chocolate over the top of your mixture and place pan in the fridge.

As hard as it is... leave your Peanut Butter squares in the fridge for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

I drew a heart in mine about 10 minutes into that refrigeration...

DIG IN.

Nutrition:
Serves 24 people

266 calories

27 carbs

17g fat

6g protein

Sooo maybe not healthy for you... even a little but they are SO delicious.

WARNING:

MAY HAVE TO HIDE PAN FROM SELF IN ORDER TO STOP EATING.

Tattoos to Adore

2012-05-10T22:42:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you
but for me, time and time again, I see adorable tattoos

where I can't help but think...

Why didn't I think of that?

In the end, I won't get a tattoo unless it means something to me.

HOWEVER

that does not stop me from creating a tattoo roulette!

NOTE: I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THESE IMAGES.

Random. The End.

Make Your Own Brush Case

2012-05-10T21:28:00.002-05:00

When I first started school, I realized that I would need makeup brushes (obviously Katy).

I also took note that I would need something to carry said brushes in.

Prices varied anywhere from $15-$60.

Sorry, but something that I'm going to store my brushes in hardly seems the money I could use to buy a tank of gas.

Putting my thinking cap on
I realized that I have a box full of leftover fabric and ribbon.

That will work.

It took me a while to figure out since I wasn't really sure what I was making...

Keep in mind that I have many more brushes then the average person since I use them to do other peoples faces rather then mine.

I love it though. It's light weight, easy to wash and cute!