I learned something new yesterday and thought I would share it. Yesterday, upon entering Bauhaus (the German version of Home Depot which is also in Turkey), we were asked to show a "HES kodu." Luckily, I was with my husband because I had no idea what they wanted. However, once he informed me what it... Continue Reading →
Doing the Math & My Love of All Things Paşabahçe
When I first moved to Turkey in 2010, I quickly realized that I was constantly converting figures whether it be measurements, temperatures or money. Some equations were easy. Temperatures, of course, were more difficult, after all, those involved a whole formula! For me, the money conversions were the most interesting. Sure, it was simple math. ... Continue Reading →
Typing in Turkey
After years of blogging, my husband decided that I should own a typewriter. I had always wanted one, but had never pulled the trigger. He presented me with my first manual typewriter, a 1961 Royal Futura 800. A year and a half later, I'm the proud owner of 13 manual typewriters ranging from extremely odd... Continue Reading →
Buying winter tires in Ankara
A reader asked a couple of great questions on one of my earlier blog posts, Tips for Driving in the Snow in Turkey. She was wondering about the costs of winter tires and how a non-Turkish speaker could find out about it? Below are my thoughts on the matter, but your experiences would be welcome... Continue Reading →
Shameless Plug
My brother has created a website to promote his lovely hand-crafted furniture. I welcome my readers to peruse the site and photos of his work. Feel free to contact him directly if you are looking for furnishings (truly artwork) from reclaimed wood. Just click the below link. Bill Henson Custom Wood Work
Ordering Online? Beware Cargo!
Due to some of the personal email responses I received from this blog post, I have updated the post. First, is my personal experience in Ankara, which may be useful to both Turks and expats here in Turkey. Second, is some helpful information for foreigners and Americans when dealing with shipping in the U.S. In... Continue Reading →
Top 5 Things to do in Ankara — Off the Beaten Path
I have hesitated to write a Top 5 "to do" list of my favorite places in Ankara. The reason? I am not a "usual" type of girl. The things I like to see and do will also be enjoyed by most of you, but most are NOT the typical places you will find on a... Continue Reading →
Belgian Chocolate in Ankara
Last week, my friend Marlene sent out an email informing fellow expats that The Chocolate Art would have Christmas chocolates available on December 8th. Marlene is a great friend to have - she knows all you need to know as an expat in town. Although we have mostly been "virtual friends," we finally met this year. And... Continue Reading →
I spy . . . sweet potatoes!
If you are new to Ankara, and American, you are likely having a bit of a mental breakdown this week. Yes, Thanksgiving is upon us and you don't know how you will live without sweet potatoes! Well, feast your eyes on these: The one on the left is an American Sweet Potato! There are a... Continue Reading →
Crate & Barrel!!!!!
Crate & Barrel has finally opened in Istanbul!!! Well, I'm not sure when it actually happened or where it is. What I do know is that the emails I get from them finally have links so I can shop online!!! I'm happy! Hubby? - probably not as happy as me!! hahahaha Here's the link: http://www.crateandbarrel.com.tr/
Guess who’s Coming to GOP? Hobi Evi!!!
A couple of weeks ago, I was walking home from the Atakule area, when I decided to stop at the mall in Yukari Ayranci? What's that? You didn't know there was a mall in Ayranci? Well, that may be the reason that there aren't many shops in it. Ansera Alisveris Merkezi has just a handful... Continue Reading →
Top things to do when Visiting West Chester
This is my list of favorite things to do when going home. My list is personal, but you may want to check some of it out when you go - or if you are in the area of Philadelphia, Chadds Ford, Chester County, etc. Visit family and friends Drive the country roads of West Chester... Continue Reading →
St. Nicholas Church, Demre (Myra)
During our week in Kaş, my husband and I set out on our own sightseeing adventure. We drove to the neighboring town of Demre, formerly known as Myra. It was about a 45 minute drive - beautiful greenery, mountains, and sea side. Our first stop was the Church of St. Nick, THE St. Nick, Santa Claus!!... Continue Reading →