Category Archives: Uncategorized

“Tra-la-la…” “Huh?” whimper

It came as a surprise to me when, in adulthood, I realized that many people (let’s admit it:  women) grow up harboring ideas of their “dream wedding.”  REALLY?  Never once, in any fashion, as a child, teen, or adult, had … Continue reading →

One thing that hasn’t waned during our time in Turkey is the fact that we miss friends and family; fortunately, technology manages to create some feelings of connection.  For instance, while I miss my fabulous cousin Kurt and his family this year, seeing … Continue reading →

We sometimes feel like 8 of our last 11 years have been spent hanging out on various playgrounds.  There’s the park near our house in Duluth that we call “Our Playground.”  There are Chester Park, Lester Park, Bayfront (“Castle Playground”), not … Continue reading →

With our friend Jim visiting last week, we had the opportunity to visit a couple of spots that we’ve heretofore not seen, the standout being the open air museum called Zelve (zel-way).  We got there only a half an hour … Continue reading →

I’m finding my aversion to holidays is less strong in Turkey.  Partially, it’s because I’m not overwhelmed with teaching and toting kids around and always craving more time in every day; therefore, spending hours prepping only to undo that prep work a short … Continue reading →

My mom and her new 87-year-old husband recently visited for eleven days; I have to say, with how uneven and challenging the terrain is here, they both proved their mettle on even the shortest walk. After leaving us a couple … Continue reading →

…Ricky gets a shave, and Lucy takes a break from the chocolate chip cookie assembly line long enough to feel up his baby-fine skin. Slathered in goo, Ricky has to perform “Babalu” with literal egg on his face that night … Continue reading →

She’s working on a British accent. She really likes Thai curry. My uncle, recently visiting, noted of her penchant for running ahead and fearlessly exploring every nook, “She’s a charger.” When I was giving Haakon a mnemonic device for remembering … Continue reading →

Since the first time I casually said to Aunt Geri, “You should come visit us in Turkey,” her response has been a visceral one, followed by a sentiment along the lines of “Yea, that ain’t gonna happen. No thank you. … Continue reading →