So much has happened since my last post! I surprised my family by going home for Christmas. I will never forget the look on their faces as they walked into my mom’s house expecting to decorate cookies. That was wonderful. Plus just being home, surrounded by friends and family, it was ‘holidaytastic’!
As for coming back to Istanbul, it was a breeze. The beauty of the city alone just resonates deep within me. In many ways, I feel like I am still very much adjusting to my new country, which can be overwhelming and isolating. Also, some of the best people I know live in San Diego and I miss them. However, it feels good being here.
On the becoming a traveler and not a tourist note, I began my 30 days of yoga last week… tomorrow is class number three. The second class was all in Turkish and I actually understood a couple of words! I am continuing with my ceramics class as well. Glazing and painting this morning while listening to the people around me speak in this foreign language was just very relaxing. However, one guy was from Spain and we conversed for a (very little) bit in Espanol. Ole!
traveling with claire 
So happy for you, Claire! Glad you started yoga, but what happened to the 100 days of Yoga?:). The ceramic box is cool – what is the other object you made in the first picture? Stay warm and I love you!!
Miss you too, my dear! Love the Yoga connection! And the ceramics. Am so glad that you are enjoying you new environment! Cheers!!!
Claire, loved your post and I’m fascinated by ceramics and yoga. You go, girl! Wish I could have seen you again while you were home, but I blinked and you were back in Istanbul! Glad you are having a great time and stay warm!
I was so excited when I got your voicemail saying you were in town for a few days! Glad we got to connect, that coffee shop reminds me of our masters degree program. Enjoy the yoga and ceramnics 🙂