I walked off the airplane to a burst of humidity, despite the sun setting hours before, crossed the tarmac and into the blinding fluorescent lighting of baggage claim. I had been traveling for hours and recovering from the social pause, when she walked towards me.
“Excuse me, Are you Caitlyn?”
I would soon discover her name, her sleeping habits, her favorite vegetable (celery) , and how amazing it is to have a friend to discover Turkiye with; I can now proclaim after one week in Gazipasa, that this country is overflowing with lovely people, so willing to act selflessly; delicious food, undoubtedly with tea to follow; and spectacular views, of the Mediterranean and scattered stray cats.
Here are some things I have learned so far:
- Having just washed pottery for a few hours, I can confidently distinguish between terracotta and schist.
- My body and mind can easily adapt to a new climate/sleep schedule/working condition if I give myself a few days and a little grace.
- Walk with baby steps down a hill with a wheelbarrow.
See you next week with Saige’s favorite fruit.