Christmas of the Most Turkish Kind

Celebrated Christmas this past weekend with a few Fulbrighters and some anonymous Europeans. Not one of the more traditional Christmas's I've had, but it was well put together and very thoughtful. We baked cookies galore, listened to Christmas music, and wore sweaters and hugs to maintain the holiday cheer. And when the wine began to pour, our spirits brightened a bit more to boot.

It was certainly a special time, and a Christmas not to be forgotten. The 'Yankee Swap' game we played with the Europeans was a hoot. There were a fair share of gag gifts interspersed with more thoughtful and generous donations, and about half of us walked away presents worth keeping, but all of us shared in the gift of laughter.

Returning to Bilecik felt a little more lonely this time. Perhaps it was a combination of a few things (exhaustion, preparing to confront another work week), but I heard the sound of my own footsteps louder than ever tonight. I felt the stares a little more cooly than normal. I'm looking forward to visiting the States again in a few weeks. It'll be nice to catch up with friends and family, especially soon after the holidays.

Next weekend will be spent in Istanbul. New Years in Istanbul. The thought alone makes my heart skip a beat.

Night ya'll.