summer has arrived!
I am happy to announce that the gloomy, rainy, grey winter that we’ve had is officially done, gone, over with. Spring was here for a few days here and there with its fresh air and warm sunshine, always requiring a light jacket of some sort. But spring was gone in the blink of an eye, which from what I understand is pretty normal for Istanbul. And summer has officially arrived! (officially by my calendar, anyway)
We’re enjoying 80* weather, day after day of sun, hot sunshine, but nights are a still little chilly. The change in weather signals the end of the school year and the beginning of summer holidays for many. That and the combination of the beautiful weather has put everyone in a good mood, including me, who was in need of a little pick-me-up.
Welcome, Summer! Please stay for a long time. :)
the Easter Bunny hopped to Istanbul
This Easter Onur got his first-ever Easter basket. Yes, the Easter Bunny managed to find his way to Istanbul and managed to leave a basket of goodies on Easter morning.
The basket was not filled with chocolate bunnies and jelly beans. Instead the Easter Bunny left Onur goodies like figs and Turkish chocolates and these lovely chocolate-nut-crunch candies called crokan… mmm! And not to forget the painted Easter eggs that I made myself! (I mean the EB made himself).
Thanks, EB!

when fresh is fresh
I have learned to really appreciate fresh produce living here in Turkey. But sometimes fresh is just too fresh. For example, in my semiz otu (a form of spinach) today.
In washing the semiz otu to make a salad, I came across this little garden buddy… the slug bug. Good thing I caught him beforehand. I mean, after all, they say you are what you eat!


