Since September 19, David, Mandy, Jackson and I have been on R & R in the states. The first few days were devoted to seeing the Rochester/Fairport/Penfield/Webster/Pittsford family (not a small group as you can see!), David and Mandy's fifth wedding anniversary at an overnight at Geneva-on-the-Lake followed by visits to the great Finger Lakes Wineries in the area, and shopping! All events high on the list of must-dos, we were not disappointed.
Jackson and I had a great time together as his mom and dad tasted wine. Then it was off to California for the three to see Mandy's family for about two weeks. There were many planned activities there as well. I have yet to hear about their adventures there, but will soon!
We all travel back to Ankara day after tomorrow (Friday, 10 October) and will meet in London Heathrow for the final leg back. I'm sure we'll have plenty to share!
My sharing will come in the form of describing every meal out with friends and family. Some days it was two meals that involved restaurants or a home. I cooked NEVER, it seems, and that was fine with me. I was sure that I would be rolling out of Rochester... but I've tried to be careful in my selections, pretty much drilled into me through Weight Watchers, a great organization. By the way, if you have trouble in that area of your life, check out the programs offered in WW. It works.
Of course, I can't wait to see Jackson, check on his newest achievements, the foods he's been enjoying, and get back into a routine together again. We'll be taking walks, going to the playground near our home, playing with the toys at home, and always... looking for puppies. Since we have two kitties, Soviette and Rumors, we'll be feeding and petting them and geting reacquainted. It will be interesting for me to observe his behavior as he returns to his home and more familiar surroundings.
Ankara temperatures are very similar to Rochester right now: highs in the 60s, lows in the 40s, but drier. I will, along with Jackson and his parents, experience the holidays in this city. Since David and Mandy have been here much longer and through holidays last year, they have an idea of temperatures, customs, and the degree that these American celebrations are addressed by the Turkish people. Quite an adventure!
I have a new year resolution in the waiting: that of keeping you all better informed of our comings and goings, and the accompanying perceptions.
