Turkish Family

I spent three days in Izmir with my Turkish family. They were unbelievably gracious, kind, hospitable and funny. And that Mama was one amazing cook.

I mean seriously amazing. I arrived to stuffed grape leaves, beef stew, rice with slivered almonds, fresh baked bread, a yogurt and eggplant dish and apple turnovers.

And that was just for lunch.

Let's just say that I am not lighter on my toes, people.

If you knew them you would fall in love with them just like I did. They have amazing stories of survival, persecution and redemption. They laugh as much as my Oklahoma family does at a family reunion and they taught me how to play Settlers of Catan, which we played every night.

An American girl learning a German game in Turkey. Go figure.

My Turkish Mama

a.k.a. the Spunky Lady

My Turkish Sister, Esra, and her husband Ho

Isn't she gorgeous?

My Turkish brother Goksel and his girlfriend Secel

Cetin, my Turkish brother who went to Denver Seminary. He is one of only six Turks in the entire country who have attended seminary. God has big plans for him.

Group shot (minus Goksel)

Esra, yours truly and Cegdin (Spunkmeister) in downtown Izmir

 

A beautiful sunset on the Mediterranean. Love it.

I loved my visit with this family. They are amazing people. Truly amazing. I cannot wait to visit them again.

So...

I am now in Jordan. Eight flights down, two to go! There is still so much for you to see about Turkey, including trips to Cappadocia and Ephesus. But those will come, I promise!

But for now, I have bigger fish to fry.

Cue music.

When you read this I will be retracing the steps of our esteemed predecessor, the world-renowned intellect whose smile could charm the stink off a skunk: Indiana Jones. 

We are off to Petra!